Move Ya Body: The Birth of House is a splendid documentary about house music while building up to be so much more than it.
Move Ya Body: The Birth of House talks about the transition from disco to house music, interviewing some of the genre’s pioneers. Filled with catchy, bass-thumping music, it mixes footage from the scene with dramatizations to capture that moment. Furthermore, it’s at once inspiring, there’s an underlying frustration at the constant pillaging and commodification of Black culture that returns nothing but disappointment.
Directed by Elegance Bratton (The Inspection, Pier Kids), the documentary delves into the rumbling origins of house music, set in the discordant, racially tense backdrop of Chicago. Most cultural shifts start with the youth, particularly Black youth, seeking new forms of expression. As most changes often start gradually, the DJs and various artists they interview even find it difficult to pinpoint the exact transition to house. So, through reenactments, Bratton takes audiences on a journey, showing the through line from disco to house, beginning with Vince Lawrence.
Move Ya Body: The Birth of House and Disco Demolition
Many folks will not understand what Disco Demolition was unless immersed in the scene or from that decade. Vince Lawrence, who was considered a founder of house music, was there. It was a Chicago event led by a white radio DJ, Steve Dahl, who focused all his hate on disco. So, the documentary captures what Black citizens and artists saw—that despite claims that it was not racist, the majority of those who destroyed records, including soul and Motown music, were white.
One white rock artist captures the racist sentiment of then and now—an endangerment to their way of life. Yet, it’s ironic, considering the danger and violence often went to Black people for merely existing. Still, this pivotal moment forces disco underground. Around that time, a teenage Vince Lawrence, Jesse Saunders, and friends work together to create a new sound. His group was the first to put together an actual house record.
A Wonderful Dissection of House’s Genesis
Move Ya Body: The Birth of House helps break down the offshoots of music from disco. But it also goes further, showing the branching out of house into other genres of music, including techno, EDM, and more. Music and dance moves like Vogue were born in Black LGBTQ+ communities, and house was no different. It captured within its underground scene a sense of belonging and freedom.
But selling it to the masses presents challenges. Not because the music is lacking but because of the face of the music. While some might argue that Move Ya Body: The Birth of House presents a slanted view, they do not varnish and shine the bigotry of some. So, it’s not without its frustrations.
Be the Change
Except perhaps hip hop, most music genres, despite their Black origins, are synonymous with white artists. So, the documentary does not shy from this, facing it head-on. Plus, some interviewees emphasize they don’t care about the money. However, if they did, is that a problem? No. It should not be a problem to desire recognition and the check that comes with that. Thankfully, some of the creators of house music are finally receiving opportunities.
But as this piece, written during Black History Month, delves into the wonder and beauty of Black creators weaving their artistry, it’s important to remember to support Black music, films, artists, and content creators. Sadly, we cannot stop white people from pilfering. However, we can actively support our community through social media and purchases. Additionally, in the current political climate, this support must be the loudest. Move Ya Body: The Birth of House is a splendid documentary about house music while building up to be so much more than it.
