Dear America, over the last few months years decades, I think we can all agree that you’ve put us through a lot. Like seriously – THIS CAN’T BE LIFE . I mean I personally had to just check out and take a break from it all. Never in my wildest dreams would I think that we would in a similar place [historically] that my parents and grandparents were in 50 years ago. The recent tragic moments in history have brought out the best and worst of some people. People on your timeline and the people you may “look up to” [see also: celebrities]. #BlackLivesMatter is our Civil Rights Movement.
Several artists of today’s generation have released songs and videos addressing the violence and racism. This musical movement hasn’t been seen since Marvin Gaye and James Brown eras. Some of the artists using their creative platforms include Kendrick Lamar, Beyonce, Miguel, Ariana Grande, Jay-Z,Common, John Legend, Daye Jack, Killer Mike, Lauryn Hill, Janelle Monae, Swizz Beats, J. Cole, Prince (R.I.P), Usher, The Game, and more.
But let’s not forget the DOPE independent artists making major moves:
Th
e bold and unapologetic, nationally recognized hip-hop artist, Tyke T, wants us to #staywoke. His single, “This Can’t Be Life,” was released last year as a way to draw attention to the plight of African-Americans in this country today. Tyke T says, “This Can’t Be Life” was my opportunity to artistically discuss what’s going on in our communities as well as the strong resolve African-American’s have as a people to rise from those situations.”
See the video HERE or Listen HERE
You remember Sammie, yes that Sammie. Well everything about him is grown up now – even the messages in his music. In his new single, “Dear America”, Sammie captures the thoughts most young black males have had: “But they made it so hard for us/ Yeah it’s hard, but it’s the land of the free/ Swear they made it so hard for us/But Obama looks just like me.” See his video HERE
I would personally like to thank the” Maxine, Martin, Medgar, Malcolm, Mandela, Marley, Marcus, Muhammad Ali’s” of today for being a voice. Even outside of the political figures and activists, it’s been exciting to see so much star power take advantage of huge platforms to relay an overdue message! [Thanks, Jesse]. Jesse Williams has been coined the modern day Harry Belafonte.
The incomparable Harry Belafonte recently said, “In this urgent national moment, we are witnessing a resurgence of artists who are actively seeking ways to become more politically engaged and connected with movements on the ground, and helping impact change around critical issues like police violence, mass incarceration, voting rights and other forms of systemic injustice.” I couldn’t agree more!
As always, #SUKG Shut Up Keep Grinding®
Follow me: @JadaD_ on Twitter & @Jada.SUKG on Instagram
Follow great music: @Tyke__T & @SammieAlways
