What does one do to celebrate the past successes of MLK? I mean, other than taking a moment to remember, there really are no events held in his honor or specials on tv for this day. If there are, please excuse my ignorance or place blame with the marketing department!
Let's think about history for a second and think about how far we've come....hmm. Now, if you're anything like me, you're probably running for a blanket to cover your eyes in shame. Well ok, maybe not so dramatic! I personally can't help feel a little shame with how little we have come from 1968. When I look at afro-centric music, media and popular values, there are many short comings.
Chicken Noodle Soup...that's all I have to say...hahah. I mean come on people. I know that we can come up with better music than this. Where are our innovators? We have sampled/stolen so much. It's really getting out of control. It's definitely time for a revolutionary to come and change the face of R'n'b and Hiphop. Believe me. When (and if) this happens, the person/s will not state they are there to change the game (which is how some arrogantly make their stance). They will just do it.
And....
When will Hiphop learn that you can not make a thug album...blow up...Only to talk about how hard the streets are on your 3rd album... 50...stop it!!!
Last but not least...
The "bonus track" (as I like to call it) has to stop. The "Bonus Track" is the song that an artist will put to make themselves appear more socially conscience to their fans (circa Nas' "I Know I Can" or Luda's "Runaway Love"). I mean Luda, we know that the girl in runaway love turns out to be the same girl in your "Different Area Codes" video. Can i get an A---?
Speaking of videos....BET. How could you let so many of us down? I could go on for hours...but that would just give me carpel tunnel! All I beg of BET is to offer more diverse shows/videos/movies that paint a less stereotypic view of the black race. How many times can I watch Belly (though i love me some Tboz)?
Everyone jumps on Oprah for her decision to not have certain hiphop artists on her program; however you might hate me when I say this...but I agree with her! Listen...I would not have people on my show who support the N-word so liberally and with 'misogonistic' lyrics. For those of you that state that it is a term of endearment...let me educate you (if I may):
- You can never appropriate a word that is rooted in slander/prejudice and hate. So you can't take Queer, Nigger, Wop, Kike, Bitch and make it mean what you want. The true meaning and history still pervades.
- Read above (again)
I think it's unfortunate that Black America popular values surround the now. The fast money, the cars and girls dressed scandly clad. It's even more unfortunate that many in Canada idolize this. When is financial planning going to be popular? or investing? I'd love to hear a rhyme about that...haha.
Between Now and When We Meet Again...Peace
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