History

Sun Ra and his Arkestra pioneered Afrofuturism, combining music, dance, and theatrics into a striking interpretation of the black experience. Disillusioned by American systems of oppression and discrimination, and inspired by the space age, Ra envisioned a black utopia beyond Earth. He named his band the Arkestra, referencing Noah’s ark, and presenting his music as the vehicle that would transport black Americans to freedom. “Kest” (according to Ra, because “kist” meant “sun’s gleam” in Sanskrit) refers to the sun, and deals with themes of time. This theme also shows up in Sun Ra’s own name, and reflects embracing black histories, while looking forward and creating a better future. Ra also drew on the black vernacular in choosing “Arkestra,” saying “that’s the way black people say orchestra.”

Sun Ra’s emphasis on black heritage and futures manifested itself through the band’s music and performance practices. Freedom comes through in every aspect of the music, with erratic, impassioned improvisations shattering Western conventions of music making. The music uses jazz and blues vernaculars, all while incorporating electronic sounds that evoke something beyond our time and planet. During performances, band members wore Egyptian headdresses, African robes, and Mardi Gras beads. The band often laughed, danced, and walked arm in arm on stage, presenting a joyous image of unity. Beyond performances and records, Sun Ra and his Arkestra made a movie called Space is the Place (1974), in which the band abandons Earth to establish a black utopia in space.