Mix Tape Mischief: A Black Market Mini (History)

Whether your weekend takes you to your local or backstage - you'll keep the keep things interesting.  More from our mini knowledge drop in tribute to our new Black Market minis. 

In 1980s East Berlin, Western popular music was viewed by the government as a “dangerous American cultural weapon” aimed at corrupting GDR youth. The state censored music heavily, allowing only “politically acceptable” artists and songs. Many Western records were banned from stores and radio, though young people found ways to hear them (via West-Berlin radio broadcasts, smuggled LPs, or tape copies). The level of risk varied: private listening was tacitly tolerated, but organizing concerts or being part of a rebellious music scene could bring serious trouble.⁠