The word “scrutiny” as defined in the dictionary means “close, careful searching examination or inspection.” This word is very relevant when you examine the much-publicized critique of the state of Hip Hop. For me, it’s funny how this society suffers from so many convenient stints of amnesia.

So, because Hip Hop has persevered, going from something not worth acknowledging to the worldwide phenomenon that it is, here comes scrutiny. Which, be clear, anybody or thing which captures the attention of the masses is subject to this term. What’s funny though is, at the end of the day, this is entertainment. Entertainment is consumed for the use of pleasure. It’s dope when you can take away more from it then just pleasure, but at its core that’s its design.

Coming up in the “Golden Age” of Hip Hop, what was dope was that even when groups had a hit record, because of the timeline of life, you kinda had to be connected to our struggle as a community. With the advancements we have made as a community, the youth aren’t as mindful of these struggles. But what needs to be understood is that it’s sorta the reason why people fought. So the next generation wouldn’t have to go through that. Of course, that doesn’t mean abuse the fruits of their labor though.

That’s where I think we come into the conflict. Older civil rights activist in my opinion feel that because of the “sacrifice,” the next generation should do it “this way.” The problem is, for the most part, people are going to do what they know. If the artists aren’t connected to that, how can adequately represent it in their music?? Take, for example, the group here that I got my start with: “A Tribe Called Quest.” Though they had a message in their music, it was so easy to digest via execution that people actually WANTED more!!!

I guess my point is this. We as a community suffer from so many hang-ups that we don’t allow ourselves to partake in our own achievement. I think community leaders would gain more mileage embracing as oppose to alienating. Do you think older white Americans say to their youth you need to take responsibility for your part in slavery? No! They will NEVER unnecessarily connect them to that! Which allows them their room to grow in a Capitalist society where there is no conscience. If we are the minority that means we are out numbered not only physically but also in regard to thought process & ideology. I’m not saying be ruthless without regard, but at least snap out of the Matrix. Business is based on competition and if you have a chance to corner the market such as Hip Hop has with music industry then you’re better served attempting to organize it before you divide it. The job of leaders is to compile and then rank & file. Meaning bring people together and through unification we can use that strength to accomplish our set agendas.

Shout out to my girl Kimmy O and congrats to my family A Tribe Called Quest for being honored this year by VH1. It felt great to be on stage with the crew. Don’t Quit Your Day Job is in stores NOW!!! , Job Training “The Making of Don’t Quit Your Day Job” drops December 2007 and You Win Some, You Lose Some drops Spring 2008.

It’s The Cons Fool

WORD!!!

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