The Obama Effect
I want to believe that what Common is saying is true. And to a certain extent, I can see what he is talking about. I have noticed that there are more artists trying to create songs that have a hopeful message. I think it is a combination of Obama, the recession, and just the fact that rappers have finally run out of metaphors for how many diamonds are in their chains. But we have a looooonnnnggg way to go.
Where I see the biggest challenge is on the radio. As I am writing this blog, I am trying to think of a positive, uplifting song on the radio, and I really can’t come up with one. I guess you have Drake’s “Successful”, but even that record is a stretch because he defines “success” as having “money, cars, clothes, & hoes”. If you can find a positive song on the radio please email me. But it is probably going to be extremely difficult given that Gucci Mane seems to be the hottest artist on the radio right now (smh!).
Will the corporations that control the airwaves give the green light to more positive songs? Will artists create, and push for more positive songs on the radio, even if it means a fewer number of spins and a little less money in their pocket? Will listeners boycott the radio in order to demand a change?
I know it may seem pessimistic, but I have to admit that I am a bit skeptical. Change requires sacrifice, persistence, and resilience. I want to believe that our communities still have these qualities. I hope that there are artists and fans that are willing to take the necessary actions to create change. Obama can communicate the importance for change, but ultimately it is up to us to deliver.
What are you willing to sacrifice in order to make this happen?
Turn it up,
