The rapper’s song devoted to Assata Shakur closes with words from Shakur herself, on freedom.
A Song For Assata explores the range of emotions felt by Shakur as she fought against numerous felonious charges. Common raps “I read this sister’s story and new that it deserved a verse” as he wonders what would the end-game have been if he had been Assata Shakur’s. The ultimate tribute, Common gracefully rapped the powerful story of Assata Shakur’s arrest, mistreatment by law enforcement and the criminal justice system and her escape from prison to Cuba, living under political asylum. “I’m thinking of Assata, yes Listen to my love, Assata yes Your power and pride is beautiful May God bless your soul” The rappers detail how their hustle and drive will lead them to their material and career goals, by any means, certifying their street realness. Meek Mill, Pill, Rick Ross and Wale adapt the mantra “by any means” popularized by Malcolm X during a notable speech, ensuring that equal rights would be obtained no matter the cost. Using Islamic phrases and lyrics referencing political and social disparities prevalent in minority communities, this song pays homage to civil rights leader Malcolm X. “Word, how they say that we not fly? How they say we not workin? They just need convincing like Malcolm LIttle ‘Fore he converted” Washington and Sidney Poitier By Any Means – Wale, Meek Mill, Pill, Rick Ross Jeezy even gives a shout-out to Jackie Robinson, Booker T. My President Is Black reflects harsh realities of life yet also feeling of hope provoked by Obama. Young Jeezy and Nas captured the feelings of most of Black America when in 2009, Obama made history as he was elected to the oval office. Nas joins Young Jeezy for the most recognized hip-hop salute to President Barack Obama. “My president is black My Lambo’s blue And I’ll be goddamned if my rims aint too”įor eight years My President Is Black was a joyous descriptor of American life. Black History not only recognizes the names these important historical figures, Master P also raps about the strides made advancing society from slavery however remains diligent on the remaining work that needs to be done. The duo deliver rhythmic lines, giving shout-outs to icons such as Bessie Coleman, Frederick Douglass, Booker T.t and Washington and Medgar Evers. Master P enlisted help of son, Romeo to rap about multiple figures of black history. “Times real though Kickers kick no field goals Harriet Tubman Built The Underground Railroads” would make his mother happy, he’s unable to adopt peaceful ideals and turn the other cheek. Acknowledging that taking the approach of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, while aligning his views with Black Panther Party co-founders Huey Newton and Black Panther leader Fred Hampton. The song reflects on Kendrick Lamar’s attitude toward civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. HiiiPoWeR salutes the Black Panther Party’s resistance against poverty and recognizes the differences in Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr’s quest for equality. “Visions of Martin Luther staring at me If I see it how he seen it, that would make my parents happy Sorry Mama, I can’t turn the other cheek” Sassy and Phenomonal Woman champion the black woman as powerful and free, despite the downtrodden opinions held by others. The song’s empowering and confident lyrics perfectly capture the attitude of Angelou’s iconic prose Phenomonal Woman and Rapsody even repeats “Does my sassiness upset you”, one of the poems most stand-out lines as well as other notes from the poem. Grammy nominated artist Rapsody’s song Sassy from her album Laila’s Wisdom is the ultimate salute to Maya Angelou. “Diamonds tween my knees, oil wells in thighs, does my sassiness upset you? Oh you mad cuz I survived?” Whether it be a hot line or a hot song, rappers have always acknowledged the people whose talents and tenacity paved the way for many aspects of life enjoyed daily.įrom Public Enemy, to Kendrick Lamar, to Rapsody and more, here are seven hip hop tracks that serve as important odes to black history. Lyricists often pay homage to historical figures through their music. Not allowing their legacies to be forgotten nor tarnished, educators, activists, political figures and more echo legendary stories, recite the speeches and pay their respects to icons of black history. An important element of Black History Month is recognizing those who have existed in previous generations that paved the way for social and political movements of the present and future. During Black History Month, we celebrate the excellence, culture and beauty of Black people across the globe.
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