One Love, Ghoema Beat

This engaging account reveals the vibrant culture of the Cape Town Carnival, showcasing its unique history and the captivating ghoema beat.

In One Love, Ghoema Beat, readers are invited to explore the vibrant world of the Cape Town Carnival, one of the most colorful yet lesser-known celebrations globally. This carnival shares similarities with Mardi Gras in New Orleans and Carnival in Rio de Janeiro but stands out due to its unique historical context rooted in South Africa's complex past. The music, characterized by the captivating ghoema beat, plays a crucial role in the carnival's identity, creating an atmosphere that is both festive and deeply meaningful.

The narrative follows historian and photographer John Edwin Mason, who joined the Pennsylvanians Crooning Minstrels, one of Cape Town's prominent Carnival troupes, in 2006. Over the next four seasons, Mason immersed himself in the troupe's activities, including rehearsals, street marches, and competitions. His extensive involvement provided him with a rare opportunity to document the intricate details of the carnival, from the exhilarating parades to the late-night practice sessions. Through his lens, readers witness the dedication of the performers, the craftsmanship of drum makers and tailors, and the emotional highs and lows of inter-troupe rivalries.

Having lived in Cape Town during pivotal years, Mason's connection to the city deepens the narrative. One Love, Ghoema Beat not only showcases the carnival's spectacular visuals but also highlights the cultural significance and community spirit that define this extraordinary event. This book serves as both a celebration of the Cape Town Carnival and a testament to the resilience and creativity of its people.