Rappers misuse their influence at times and rap about insignificant topics that focus on consumerism, such as rapping about cars and money, and objectifying women. The way rap music is portrayed in the media seems to capture these trivial topics rather than the important social issues some rappers discuss. However, there are few rappers who dare comment on social issues, two being Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West. Lamar and West write music about important social topics such as racial injustice and racism in America, whereas other rappers are ignoring these issues. Lamar’s most recent song, “The Blacker The Berry,” talks about the institutionalized hardships black people are still facing, such as economic inequity and harmful social perceptions,
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West portrays his song “New Slaves" through the eyes of a successful black man in America. The song discusses how consumerism affects the black community. Consumerism is a trend seen throughout America in general, but African Americans are more at risk. African Americans feel the need to conform to what is expected in American, because their culture is seen as “bad.” They are by design less fortunate that others, so being excepted to follow everything trend is a way to make them use their money in an effort to “fit in.” Kanye is aware of this, which is why his titled this song “New Slaves”, African Americans work hard to use their money on meaningless objects, not because they want them but because they feel as if they need …show more content…
Both artists rap about their personal experiences with racism and consumerism and its negative effect on their communities. The experiences presented in these songs are relatable to all African Americans. In Lamar’s song, listeners can truly hear the accusatory and bitter tone in both his music and voice. “The Blacker The Berry” lets the listener know that the oppression Lamar faces is not unique to him; it is experienced by his entire community. West’s “New Slaves” portrays a sarcastic tone, mocking “White America.” West cleverly uses word play as a way to say "eff you" to his oppressors but still keeps things serious. The song elaborates on how “White America’s” influence has a grip on African American’s money. Together they try to persuade their listeners on how the elite make money off of their people 's
West portrays his song “New Slaves" through the eyes of a successful black man in America. The song discusses how consumerism affects the black community. Consumerism is a trend seen throughout America in general, but African Americans are more at risk. African Americans feel the need to conform to what is expected in American, because their culture is seen as “bad.” They are by design less fortunate that others, so being excepted to follow everything trend is a way to make them use their money in an effort to “fit in.” Kanye is aware of this, which is why his titled this song “New Slaves”, African Americans work hard to use their money on meaningless objects, not because they want them but because they feel as if they need …show more content…
Both artists rap about their personal experiences with racism and consumerism and its negative effect on their communities. The experiences presented in these songs are relatable to all African Americans. In Lamar’s song, listeners can truly hear the accusatory and bitter tone in both his music and voice. “The Blacker The Berry” lets the listener know that the oppression Lamar faces is not unique to him; it is experienced by his entire community. West’s “New Slaves” portrays a sarcastic tone, mocking “White America.” West cleverly uses word play as a way to say "eff you" to his oppressors but still keeps things serious. The song elaborates on how “White America’s” influence has a grip on African American’s money. Together they try to persuade their listeners on how the elite make money off of their people 's