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Explained how J. Cole failed the culture

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On Sunday in Fayetteville, North Carolina, rapper Jermaine Cole took the stage at the Dreamville Festival to specific his regret at disparaging K-Dot’s catalog in “7 Minute Drill,” where Cole raps:

J. Cole “7 Minutes of Exercise”

“That’s one part of this shit that makes me feel like the most crappy thing I’ve ever done in my fucking life” – Cole he told the audience. “So I felt conflicted because I was like, bro, I don’t even feel like that. And I know that’s not something a lot of people want to hear.”

Cole’s heartfelt public apology sent Black Twitter into a frenzy with memes, jokes, and even discourse on mental health and self-care. While the mea culpa for doing something that “offends (his) spirit” and “disturbs (his) peace” was an admirable act of contrition and self-reflection, Cole was right about one thing: it wasn’t about what many people wanted it to be hear.

One of the privileges of writing for a black audience is that I don’t have to explain what I mean when I say my youngest sister has always been “sensitive.” I’ve never really heard the definition of feeling “somehow,” but I know what it means. Every black child is born with the ability to distinguish “white people’s business” from “adult business.” For many people, Cole’s actions not only undermined one of the founding principles of hip-hop, but broke one of the unwritten rules that govern disparate Black communities across America:

You need to get your licking back.

Getting your lick back is a God-given right. It is as important as life, freedom and the pursuit of happiness. Reciprocating licking has little to do with violence or revenge; it’s about competition, honesty and, above all, never giving up. This fundamental principle is one of the pillars on which black culture and art are built. Baking or “playing the tens” is just a verbal form of getting the lick back. The improvisational guitar and saxophone solos that define American music evolved from “cutting competitions” — when black jazz and blues musicians fought one another during a performance. Even moving to the beat can turn into a contest. You cannot just tap dance in the face of Bill Bojangles Robinson or play Alpha Train at a Que party and expect no response. They get their licks back.

Perhaps nothing embodies this doctrine higher than a culture that comes with every pre-existing type of black art and black creativity. Whether it’s breakdancing, emceeing, DJing, or graffiti, every element of hip-hop involves some type of competitive response. Positioning is a basic condition of hip-hop culture. The art form relies on the concept of opposition, real or imagined. Therefore, “I’m great at rapping” was the thesis of 86.4% of old rap music. That’s why there are not any hits about reliable cars, medium-strength marijuana and cheap jewelry. That’s why Drake invited J. Cole to perform on the single “First-person shooter” to answer the question: “Who is GOAT? … It’s just (Drake) and Cole.” This cultural need for competitive excellence is also why Cole stated:

J. Cole on “first-person shooter”

This wasn’t what Kendrick Lamar wanted to listen to.

Like Cole, Kendrick Lamar is understood for creating emotionally sensitive, unapologetically black rap music that touches on topics of politics, spirituality and mental health. But despite the Grammys, Pulitzers and other Caucasian accolades showered on Lamar from outside the culture, on occasion he transforms into “Kung Fu Kenny,” the undisputed master of verbal combat. He has already said that he has nothing but love and respect for his peers, but he “he thinks hip-hop is a sportThe only difference between the more contemplative poet and his bold alter ego is that Kung Fu Kenny does not tolerate even the insinuation that anyone lives in the same sublime atmosphere as him.

For Lamar, Drake and Jermaine to put him on their level was an insult. The light-skinned duo’s intention was irrelevant. He just followed the rules. So Kendrick Lamar had no choice but to fulfill his duty to hip-hop by upholding the standards and practices of a culture in which he is deeply rooted. Lamar picked up a feature on ‘Future’ and ‘Metro Boomin’Yes” address the problem.

“These niggas talk all the time,” he began. “Don’t take the coffin out of your mouth, I’m too paranoid to make threats.” What followed was a verse filled with somewhat obscure references that true hip-hop fans would immediately recognize. He quoted rap pioneer Melle MelAndre 3000 flute i Click members of E-40 and B-Legit. After dropping song and album titles, Lamar left no ambiguity: “Motherf–k the Big Three. Nigga, it’s just me.

He got his licking back.

In an era where rap music is often indistinguishable from pop music, true hip-hop fans were delighted to witness the exchange between respected creators of their beloved art. It was like LeBron challenging Giannis to a one-on-one game at Rucker Park. Not since Nas and Jay-Z’s cultural battle have we seen two artists at the cultural avant-garde engage in the most fundamental form. And like “Ether” vs. “Takeover,” the winner debate was less necessary than the artistic competition. While nobody doubts the excellence of either artist, all this “beef” was only about who was the best.

It was hip-hop at its best.

But there may be a difference between rap and hip-hop. One is the product of a capitalist music industry built by white people for the specific purpose of commodifying black art. The second is a culture that has rules that govern the standards and practices of those participating. A mural artist may paint over one other artist’s work. But in hip-hop, crossing out one other graffiti author’s tag is taken into account a misdemeanor. While Beyoncé’s fans love her reinterpretation of “Jolene,” if the hip-hop artist did the same, she could possibly be accused of “biting” Dolly Parton. Worse yet, they could saddle Bey with one in all the most offensive labels of all – loser MC.

While some, including my colleague Touré, rightly praise J. Cole for prioritizing mental health and maintaining personal ethical standards, hip-hop purists are mistaken to wonder, “What part of the game is this?” Unlike people whose Spotify playlist includes Post Malone and Ice Spice, as you want to to imagine, I have never met a single soul who’s into J. Cole. They were simply disenchanted to see a rivalry that promised to be a watershed moment in hip-hop vanish into thin air. They are not any different than individuals who need to return to the era when NFL players could decapitate opponents on the field. They just need to add an old fashioned twist to all the songs about taking Percocet and going to weekly therapy sessions. Part of the disappointment comes from the knowledge that hip-hop is evolving, perhaps in a very good direction.

But what rapper doesn’t want his lick back?

Perhaps the only loser in all of that is the hip-hop purist. We “heads” feel the same as the boxing fans who watched Tyson bite Evander Holyfield on the ear. nobody wanted it, the risk that this conflict would end in bloodshed was very small); they desired to see two champions fight for the title. J. Cole has the right to apologize. His fans even have a right to feel slighted that he mainly confessed to his opponent.

If there’s one shiny side to this whole controversy, it’s J. Cole to Kendrick Lamar. While it could have disenchanted hip-hop fans who love watching friendly competition, individuals who enjoy the occasional good rap song can enjoy the remainder of the music that does not make them “feel bad spiritually.” His apology could seem to have broken one in all the fundamental tenets of his craft, but that does not make him a coward or a traitor. For those that doubt Cole’s commitment to the culture, rest assured that his spirit will not be stirred as he boldly raps about violence and Black women. Despite all the things, .

So much drama on the street, I feel like the beef is random
Lots of murders, turn into Thor, gotta keep the hammer
Cause the weather gets worse, shots are fired at the innocent,
the neighbors still do not know who sent them the shit, it’s like secret Santa
I’m here, reaching for a better frequency, I’m going to do it
Relax in the presidential suites or sleep in cabins on the beach
Sketching on 1000’s of sheets of paper, I hit weirdos in tandems
Catch them after which throw them in a cab like East Atlanta
How does it feel to see the flyest bitch and know he can land her?
Every word I say on beats will certainly fuel the fandom.

– J. Cole on “Stickz N Stonez”

Although some people (For example, Mos Defa) I doubt Drake is even a component of hip-hop, for the sake of culture I hope he gets his licks back. Even if it doesn’t occur, we are able to ensure of 1 thing:

Drake feels it someway.


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The post How J. Cole Disappointed the Culture, Explained appeared first on TheGrio.


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“Harlem” Season 3 Episode 3 Summary: “Can we talk … for a while”

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You can have to apologize to me. You see, I didn’t realize that Amazon Prime is throwing two episodes directly, since , I actually have not watched the premiere of the season, hmm, traditional channels. It is all legal, remember; I get screenshors, so I didn’t know that it brought us two episodes every week. So for those who cannot find a summary of episode 2, it’s because I didn’t write it (yet). After saying this, we jump into episodes 3 (and 4), because we are there in Black America, and after the week wherein we had in America, we need all available dispersion.

Camille decided to stop her child; If you remember, Camille discovered that she was pregnant after believing, that it’s not possible. At the identical time, we saw that Ian and his latest Boo, the Portia beasts, were also on the stage of family planning. When, Chile; ghetto.

Well, on this episode Camille and Ian finds their latest reality, and this reality for Camille hit her within the face. Perhaps you keep in mind that Camille has just left Columbia University for the writer’s life, which suggests that there isn’t a medical health insurance anymore. He is in a medical office, checking out how expensive possession of a child without insurance may be.

This results in the indisputable fact that Ian has an ungainly convoy wherein he states that he and Portia are considering their small family unit. He is kind of a jewel; His inability to read a room is. As you’ll be able to imagine, his lack of communication is the best level of garbage, which sends Camille to Dothismyselsville. We will return to Camille and Ian in a few, because the remainder of the stories of those women is more … normal.

Angie and Mike are looking for wedding places and there’s a sincere disconnection between them. Angie only seems to think concerning the biggest possible places available and without listening to Mike, who for any reason would really like a smaller, more intimate place. Angie makes certainly one of those decisions that that he’ll result in a convoy: he reserves an expensive, huge place without talking to him, which ends up in talking about a clear need. As it seems, his family just isn’t close and doesn’t want a wedding wherein the complete guest list is her side of family and friends; It is a reminder that his family doesn’t care about him, he’s legal and I feel him. I looked sideways, but now I understand him higher; I feel the hairstyle rejects me.

Quinn and Seth do their impartial things, and Seth’s style by Quinn placed her on the map of stylists in New York, or at the least he thinks. Apparently, the previous stylist Setha is hot and decided to share in social media that Quinn caught his client. Quinn is elegant, so he turns to style and style and worries potential dust. Of course, she drops Seth as her client, but she and Seth admit that they’ve some feelings and well, they may see how it should be.

TYE and her Boo Eva are investigating their desire for one another, although TYEA quickly sticks to Celibat obligations. But their chemistry is unusual and we all know where it goes. In addition, Eva makes Tyye cope with a few of her problems in order that they may be one of the best versions for themselves. Tye and Eva are suitable for themselves and well, I support them. Besides, I actually like Eva’s decision; It maintains real.

Returning to Camille and Ian, because that is an important thing here. Camille goes to his publisher for additional progress in his book and Heismman is hit. Until now, she gave three chapters, and the editor tells her that whenever you send the remainder, you’ll get extra money. This results in the indisputable fact that Ian and Camille have a convoy wherein he apologizes for the dearth of transparency with it and ensures that he has her back, financially and his presence. Well, in response to a super expensive Camille blood test, it seems that they’ve a daughter. They each heat up with joy on this future. Awwwwwww! This is a touching moment and a good option to end episode 3.

In Harlem.


(Tagstranslate) Harlem television show

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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An attempt to save the image of Jeff Bezos’ future wife backfired after weeks of outrage and ridicule over her skimpy outfit

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Lauren Sánchez has apparently gained a popularity for her fashion hits and misses as social media users began following her every move.

Billionaire Jeff Bezos’ current fiancée stepped into the highlight long before she met the Amazon co-founder, after years spent as co-host of “Good Day LA,” a reporter for “Extra” and host of “So You Think You Can Dance,” and he even starred in a number of movies like “Ted 2.”

She faced criticism for posting a sultry selfie in November in a negligee-inspired gown by designer Laura Basca. In October, the 54-year-old again faced backlash when she showed off her latex Halloween costume as Catwoman.

Now, weeks after being deemed “cheap” and tasteless, the founder of Black Ops Aviation has turn out to be a subject of discussion.

Jeff Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sánchez shows off a “winter white” look, weeks after critics slammed her busty latex outfit. (Photos: @laurenwsanchez/Instagram, Theimagedirect.com via Page Six)

On December 5, Sánchez and the business mogul attended The New York Times’ DealBook event in New York City. For the occasion, she wore a white Alexander McQueen suit and a white lace corset. The beaming bride-to-be sent two mirror selfies of her outfit, which she signed: “winter white.”

One follower particularly was stunned by the whole look he ejaculated that she was “very attractive and beautiful, gorgeous and stunning, charming and fantastic young lady, sexy, charming, charming and elegant” in the photos that Sánchez took.

Two other people swooned over the photos and wrote: “So chic and elegant!” and “You look great.” But as you would possibly expect from online viewers, not everyone was impressed.

When Page six published paparazzi photos from the trip, the critic commented: “It’s 30 degrees in New York and she gets out of the limo in a white Miami smock, her bra visible to everyone. No taste. Nothing. A cashmere turtleneck, flannel trousers and a wool jacket can be classy.

Someone else sharply asked: “Who can be the first to tell her that she looks tacky and not elegant and refined? Does she even know what sophistication means? A 3rd person noted: “She looks more like she’s wearing a bathrobe.”

Another person wrote in a comment from a licensed pilot: “White means…” possibly referring to rumors that Sánchez and Bezos are scheduled to exchange vows over Christmas. At least one person doubted the couple would have the opportunity to say “I do.” This person said: “This will be the longest engagement ever. They will NEVER get married and we all know why!!!!”

Sánchez told the “Today” show hosts that she was in the process of planning the big day last month. She didn’t comment on speculation about exchanging Christmas vows.

Renewed interest and scrutiny of Sánchez has increased as the pair have been spotted in various locations in recent months. The couple reportedly began dating in 2018. Their engagement was announced five years later, in May 2023. Their upcoming wedding can be a second journey for each of them.

Sánchez was previously married to celebrity agent Patric Whitesell, with whom she has two children. She can be the mother of a son, whom she shares with Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. Bezos was married to the mother of his three children, Mackenzie Scott, for 25 years once they divorced in 2019.


This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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Apart from the song with singer-songwriter India Shawn – Andscape

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India Shawn is a contemporary muse with a chilled nature, crafting love stories and heartfelt tales in smooth, charming songs. With over a decade of experience in the music industry as a singer-songwriter, Shawn has incredible strength. She was born in Los Angeles, and her musical roots reach throughout the country. Beginning her profession in her hometown, Shawn eventually found herself in Atlanta, where she immersed herself in the city’s deep-rooted R&B scene, further shaping her artistry.

“I transferred to ATL, I was in 10th grade, and that’s when my music journey really started,” Shawn told Andscape. “I met people who were trying to get by, so I ended up recording and learned what songwriting was really early on.”

Before releasing her debut EP in 2012, Shawn wrote songs and collaborated with artists similar to Chris Brown, El DeBarge, Keri Hilson and Monica. In 2013, she gained much more notoriety when Solange Knowles published her song “I’m Alive” on the Saint Heron compilationmarking her as an artist value watching.

Following the release of the single “There Must Be a God” from the Andscape soundtrack, she caught up with Shawn to learn more about the muse behind the vibes.


Singer India Shawn grew up singing in church with her family. “I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” she said.

India Shawn

Name:
India Shawn

Hometown:

Los Angeles

Artistic soundscape

Airy, soft, telling a story, multidimensional, soft, mysterious, atmospheric

The oldest musical memory

Shawn’s soulful sound is deeply rooted in her upbringing, with influences drawn from her childhood memories and the musical culture of her church. “I sing with my sister all the time, and I also grew up singing behind my mom in church. She was the leader of praise and worship. So I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” Shawn said. “I had these little solos in church, and I believe what made me consider in it was that after the service people got here as much as me with tears of their eyes and said, ‘You really moved me while you sang.’ “These early moments of connection with music and audiences laid the foundation for conveying depth and sensitivity through her music.

Influences

For Shawn, music, especially R&B, has all the time held a special place in her life. “Me and my sister are harmonizing in the living room, just picking some of our favorite songs, including for me Mariah Carey, Babyface, Boyz II Men and (and) Brandy,” she said of her early music memories.

Creative process

Shawn often draws inspiration from real-life experiences and relationships that influence her music. She weaves this into the authenticity and atmosphere of her songs, but she didn’t immediately recognize where her inspiration got here from. “It’s funny that it took me so long to make that connection, but I realized that I was telling my whole story and presenting my business through my music,” she said. “It took me two albums to realize, wait a minute, I’m giving people a lot to understand here… these aren’t just songs. This is truly the life I live.”

Challenges and development

As Shawn’s profession grows, so do his moments of appreciation and reflection. “I literally just thought about a very gradual progression of my career. It’s like step by step, but there are more breakthrough moments. My first tour, which was so beautiful, I just knew I could pack a room and people knew my lyrics and sang my songs to me. Those moments that make the waiting not in vain.”

Shawn has plenty of recommendation for up-and-coming singer-songwriters. Her biggest sacrifice? Collaboration is essential. “I think (cooperation) is really why I’m still here. So find your people… you’ll know when it feels right, you’ll have that freedom and fluidity, and you’ll be able to really create things and create without having to think too much.” He also shares the importance of patience. “Just be patient during the journey. This has been a theme throughout my profession. Let it develop. I feel like more things come from being in that flow and being present reasonably than forcing all of it.

Current project

There should be a God”, the lead single from Andscape , now streaming on Hulu, also serves as a teaser for Shawn’s solo album. “(This song) is such a manifestation of God’s love,” she said. “I think when you find yourself in a place of waiting, you can feel very hopeless. So when you see glimpses of God’s love again, or the fact that you know there is a higher power, there is a source that is thinking about you, has you in mind, has a perfect plan for you, it’s just like the clouds parting. And this is the moment, I understand. I understand that I had to go through all this to get here. And that’s exactly what I felt in the studio that day.”

Sheila Matthews is a digital producer at Andscape and a proud HBCU graduate. She believes “Return of the Mack” must have won a Grammy, and her Twitter mentions are open to all debate.

This article was originally published on : andscape.com
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