Artists United Against Apartheid - Not So Far Away [Sun City UKGB Extended Dub 12 Inch Version]

This is an extended version I made of Not So Far Away [12” UKGB Dub Version] which came out on Wednesday October 16th, 1985. The song is a dub version of the song, “Sun City” by Artists United Against Apartheid – a 1985 protest group founded by activist and performer Steven Van Zandt and record producer Arthur Baker. The album of the same name: “Sun City” was released on Friday October 25th, 1985. The songs in the album including the album version of the song, “Sun City,” as well the mix versions and Dub Versions of the song “Sun City” were written to protest the subjugation of native Africans by apartheid in the Republic of South Africa. Nine years after “Sun City” was released, apartheid ended in the Republic of South Africa.

"Not So Far Away (Dub Mix / Version)" by Artists United Against Apartheid is a track that stands out both for its musical qualities and its political significance. Released as part of the 1985 album "Sun City," this song was one of several that aimed to raise awareness and support for the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. The album was a collective effort spearheaded by Little Steven Van Zandt, featuring numerous well-known artists united against the apartheid regime.
Musical Characteristics
• Genre: The song falls within the genres of dub and reggae, which are characterized by their heavy use of reverb, echo effects, and emphasis on rhythm.
• Instrumentation: "Not So Far Away (Dub Mix)" includes typical dub elements such as a prominent bass line, rhythmic drumming, and various effects that create a spacious, atmospheric sound.
• Vocals: The song features a mix of vocal styles, including chanting and singing, which adds to the communal and collaborative feel of the project.
Lyrical Themes
The lyrics of "Not So Far Away" convey messages of solidarity and the importance of global awareness regarding the struggles faced by those under the apartheid regime. The song emphasizes the idea that the fight for freedom and equality in South Africa is a global concern, not just a distant issue. This notion of interconnectedness is reflected in the chorus and throughout the lyrics, underscoring the moral responsibility to stand against oppression.
Political and Social Impact
• Awareness: By involving numerous high-profile artists, the song and the "Sun City" album as a whole brought significant attention to the anti-apartheid cause. The collective's refusal to perform at Sun City, a South African luxury resort that was a symbol of the apartheid regime, highlighted the moral stance of the musicians.
• Fundraising: Proceeds from the album were directed towards anti-apartheid initiatives, thus providing financial support to the movement.
• Message: The song, along with others on the album, delivered a powerful message against racial segregation and inequality, promoting unity and action among listeners worldwide.
Artists Involved
Artists United Against Apartheid included a wide array of musicians from different genres and backgrounds, all of whom came together to make a stand against apartheid. Notable participants included Bruce Springsteen, Bono, Bob Dylan, Afrika Bambaataa, The Fat Boys, Pat Benatar, Grandmaster Melle Mel, Jimmy Cliff and Peter Gabriel, among others.
"Not So Far Away (Dub Mix)" is a testament to the power of music as a tool for social change. Through its compelling blend of rhythm, effects, and socially conscious lyrics, the song contributed to a larger movement that ultimately played a role in dismantling apartheid in South Africa.