Mixtape
Janea Brown
ENGL 2017-61487
April 24, 2023
Mixtape
“The Revolution Will Not Be Televised "by Gil Scott-Heron
This song addresses the idea that the revolution-referring to the social and political upheavals of the late 1960s-would not be broadcast on television for everyone to see. It would be a grassroots movement lead by the people who were oppressed and marginalized. The lyrics are often quoted like “The revolution will not be televised; it will be live” Its interpreted to call to action for a better future.
“Strange Fruit” by Billie Holiday
This song addresses the reminder of the violent history of racism in America and the ongoing struggle for racial justice. It described the lynching on black man hanging from a tree like fruit. How we weren’t even people to white people back then.
“The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five
This song addresses the hardships of living in the inner city, including poverty, crime, drug addiction, and police brutality. As well as the hopelessness felt by many living in these communities. Some lyrics from this song: "Don't push me cause I’m close to the edge/ I’m trying not to lose my head/ It’s like a jungle sometimes/ It makes me wonder how I keep from going under.”
“Mississippi Goddam” by Nina Simone
This song is a powerful protest against racisms and violence against black people especially in the South. The lyrics of the songs describes the condemnation of injustice, and the hypocrisy of the Jim Crow laws and segregation with lines like, “Alabama’s got me so upset/ And everybody knows about Mississippi goddam”.
“In the End” by Linkin Park
This song expresses feeling of hopelessness and disconnection with lyrics like,”I tried so hard, and got so far, but in the end it doesn’t even matter.” Black alienation can be a result of feeling misunderstood by others.
“Black Steel in the House of Chaos” by Public Enemy
The song stands for a commentary on the prison industrial complex and the systemic oppression of black people in America. The title refers to the idea of black resistance in the face of oppression.
“Fight the Power” by Public Enemy
This song talks a powerful statement on racism, oppression, and the struggle for black liberation in America. The song’s title “Fight the Power” has become an iconic rally cry for the black community.
“Umi Says” by Moss Def
The song is a powerful reflection on black identity, spirituality, and the search for meaning in a society that often marginalizes and oppresses black people.
“Black America Again” by Common ft. Stevie Wonder
This song addresses the commentary on the state of black America and the struggle of black liberation and the need for systematic change. Lyrics such as, "We are rewriting the black American story/ We are rewriting it out of the margins.” Calls for unity as well as change in the community.
“Alright” by Kendrick Lamar
Powerful, anthemic sound, with a chorus that is a rallying cry for Black Lives Matter. Addresses the ongoing struggle of black liberation and the need for collective action. It also critiques the police and their use of violence against the black community.
“Freedom” by Beyonce ft. Kendrick Lamar
This song is still as a powerful anthem for those fighting for social justice and equality and a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Black Americans in the fight for liberation. The song lyrics draw attention to the ongoing struggles with lines like,”I’ma keep running/ Cause a winner don’t quit on themselves,” and “I break chains all by myself / Won’t let my freedom rot in hell.”
“Neighbors” by J Cole
This song is a commentary on racial profiling and police brutality. The lyrics address the fear and anxiety that comes with being a black man in America, with lines like, “I guess the neighbors think I’m sellin’ dope,” and “Cops wanna harass ‘cause I’m rollin with an athlete. It also explores the theme of power, privilege, and the inequalities of the criminal justice system.
The experience of black alienation can manifest in many different ways and is often liked to systematic racism and discrimination. It can stem from feeling like an outsider or being excluded from social and cultural events as well as experiencing microaggression or overacts of racism. These songs address the issues on the alienation and oppression experienced by black individuals and communities and offer messages of empowerment and hope.
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