Many black Americans feel repayment is due from the white population. The classic argument to this claim is usually along the line of "Why should I be blamed for slavery just because I am white?" or "Not every what person is like their ancestors." or outright saying, "I don't own slaves." But the real question is if White America does not want to endure the repercussions of slavery, should Black America not be immune to the oppressive residue that slavery has left in our society. Traces of slavery is seen in police brutality, racial profiling, lack of representation in the media, and even blatant hatred.
Artists reminisce on the wrongs that the white population has done to the black counterparts. Bob Marley lists the sources of oppression in "Redemption Song", and how he will rise above them. The song was written around the time of Marley's cancer diagnosis. Its acoustic ballad tone promotes peaceful protest and hope.
Redemption Song
On the other hand "List of Demands" by Saul Williams can be interpreted as a call to take action and take back what the white population has taken from the blacks. The aggressive rock beat and commanding lyrics can be said to have a "Black Panther" Mentality. Williams' words and behavior in the media correlates with his negative feelings toward the government.
List of Demands
I've actually never heard of these songs. But after hearing them I can definitely understand where they're coming from. You're analysis on the songs were very helpful when listing to the songs. In addition, the picture you put of Saul Williams fits the diacritics you put for the song. The hand gestures match his behavior and attitude towards the government.
ReplyDeleteI've actually never heard of these songs. But after hearing them I can definitely understand where they're coming from. You're analysis on the songs were very helpful when listing to the songs. In addition, the picture you put of Saul Williams fits the diacritics you put for the song. The hand gestures match his behavior and attitude towards the government.
ReplyDeleteI like how your interpretation of these songs shows how the feelings depicted in them are timeless. "Redemption Song" came out in 1980 and "List of Demands" in 2004, and although they employ very different techniques to portray their message, the theme of reparation is still among them both. Now, twelve years after "List of Demands" was released, the idea that the white population needs to repay black Americans is still a popular one. What the majority of white Americans do not realize is that reparation is not only due because of slavery, but it is due because of the systematic oppression the black community has faced since. When true reparation comes, we can begin to bridge the gap that has been cleaved in our system.
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