If there's one thing that anyone can take from Hip-Hop, besides the various influences it has on modern day society: fashion, film, and lingo; are the messages and issues that artists highlight. Despite the recent criticisms of Kanye West, we have to realize that Ye himself has paved the way for all of us. Whether it be unapologetically being ourselves or the fearless for being able to be "free" and express and voice our opinions despite popular demand. I know I'm not the only one sporting the rockstar look with colored polos with the collars filled up and stunna shades to top off the look. Ye is the influence, among many others, and we can't take that away from him.
Following the condemnations of Ye, screenwriter, actor, rapper, and singer, Childish Gambino has released a music video for his newest single "This Is America." Now, for those who have been rocking with Gambino for years, and no I'm not talking about being hip to "Redbone" or "3005," let's take it back to 2010 when he released "Do Ya Like," a sample of Adele's "Melt My Heart To Stone".
"I ain't afraid to say it, yeah I love these hoes/And their glasses, and their jackets, and their hipster clothes" - Gambino
I remember being in Hawaii, cruising around with friends blasting that record multiple times throughout the day. That will forever be one of my go-to throwbacks to my childhood.
Although Gambino is not an artist I listen to on daily basis, I am in fact an avid supporter of his work. From his dope "Atlanta" series to his satirical music video, it's no secret that Gambino is talented. First, shout out to him and Hiro Murai for the composition and mundane yet refreshing colors and overall vibe they executed in the video.
Gambino gave us that real.
There's so much going on in the video that it's quite difficult to hold your attention on one thing which is the purpose of the video. We, America, are exposed to tragedies every day. From school shootings that have occurred more often, to church and club massacres, but there are never any changes that come from these mishaps. Yes, temporarily, but we haven't ultimately come to a conclusion. It's always refreshing to see how an artist will utilize their style to address a message. Gambino hones in on this by giving us a record and video that aren't too informative or garner a depressive tone. Instead, we get an amped track where Gambino satirically shows the unfortunate shit that actually occurs in our lives, America. One can tell that Gambino is a down-to-earth artist who uses humor as a way to tell his story, whether it be personal or informative.
