An artist which has a had an impact on my life is Kanye
west. Kanye West is a well-known rapper and music producer who has been
producing music since the early 2000’s. Kanye’s primary audience is teenagers
and young adults. I personally grew up listening to Kanye, and he was my first
experience with the genre of rap or hip hop. I like Kanye’s music a lot because
not only are the lyrics good, but the songs are always very musically
interesting and unique. The musically unique portion of his songs really set him apart from most other rappers. I think that a lot of his songs contain hidden meanings
with valuable lessons attached as well as Kanye himself preaching impactful
ideas which people can grow from. Recently Kanye was the center of some controversy
because of his open support of the current president, Donald Trump. The
controversy was spurred form the idea that Trump is a racist and that no African
American, especially a popular rapper, would support him. Kanye challenged this
idea and was not afraid to voice his own opinion on the matter over twitter.
Without diving into the politics of this issue, I feel that what Kanye did was
very brave and inspirational because it showed that people do not have to
follow they social norms if they do not wish to. Kanye emphasized this point on
his Twitter, tweeting, “You don't have to agree with trump
but the mob can't make me not love him. We are both dragon energy. He is my
brother. I love everyone. I don't agree with everything anyone does. That's
what makes us individuals. And we have the right to independent thought.” While
Kanye’s wording is quite unique, his underlining message of, not letting the
masses control your own thoughts and opinions, is very valuable. I personally
believe that in this day and age not enough people, specifically younger people,
think for themselves, especially when it comes to politics. I think that if
more people follow the advice of Kanye and challenge the norm and begin to
think for themselves, people in general will benefit from it.
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| Album cover of my favorite Kanye West album, "Graduation" |
A specific song from Kanye West
which I find impactful is “Homecoming.” The song was released on February 18th 2008, as a single featuring Cold Play’s lead
singer, Chris Martin. The song is a tribute to Kanye’s hometown of Chicago. The
message which is contained in this song is to never forget where you came from.
I can relate to this idea personally because my hometown and the people in it
made me who I am today. The idea of remembering where you came from can help
you succeed later in life without straying from your morals. It highlights the fact that your past, whether you like it or not, makes you who you are today.
Word Count: 457
link to homecoming: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQ488QrqGE4
I agree that he is very brave for openly supporting Trump. We often don't get to hear about the large amount of African-American support for Trump, and Kanye challenged this and has been constantly ridiculed ever since. I agree, very powerful.
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ReplyDeleteAlthough I don't agree with all of Trump's values I commend Kayne for openly supporting him as a man of color which is very looked down upon. I remember when he first mentioned his support he lost thousands of followers. How would you handle that backlash? Would you do damage control or would you sand firm on your beliefs.
ReplyDeleteI really like Kayne as an artist and person. I think he makes a positive impact on so many lives. I think he represents so many people who are afraid to speak out in what they believe in.
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