I find it ironic, that Meliqueica Meadows would use a quote from a 14-year-old child citing Lil’ Kim as an example of empowerment. Isn’t she the same one just convicted of perjury? Who got “played” on that one?
While I recognize rap as a natural extension from the African griot energies, I maintain that the age-old adage “no investigation – no right to speak” applies. When did the practice of passing along the wisdom and of our ancestors lose value? Why is there such a rush to dismiss old-school values? We as a people have come too far to acquiese to the attitudes of CHILDREN, who for some reason are being allowed to dictate what is relevant.
Of course, youthful perceptions and interpretations of everyday life should be expressed. But an industry of exploitation has been created around this phenomenon. We need to monitor this THREAT to the survival of our people.
How did this genre devolve? I could relate to X-Clan, Public Enemy, NWA, Arrested Development and Tupac. I could see the potential for relevant information being transmitted. But today, anything that requires mental energy is rejected. Unscrupulous producers who seek the LOWEST common denominator, when developing marketing strategies, have created a dumbed-down idiom that is repugnant. It is so irresponsible to promote this IGNORANT thug-gangsta foolishness! There is NOTHING black or cultural about this lunacy!
ASHENAFI
(Raymond L. Moore)
Submitted via email