I've Been Patiently Waiting...

Above, you will see a picture of Talib Kweli. He is one of my favorite musical artists. His new CD comes out (finally- why did people have to tease me with false release dates) on September 28th. Lets just say that I have been patiently waiting....

There are certain music artists who inspire people and who through their creativity try to make a statement to the world. This type of message is hard in a business that is ruled by big whigs who may or may not know anything about the true artistry music should be but so often isn't. As a musician, it is difficult enough to get a music label to allow true creativity- in their minds, there are other things to think about. Why allow creativity when there are the so many other important things (yeah right) like: billboard music charts, ratings, tours, Mtv appearances and mutli-platnium status. Sad that true musicians and artists are hard to find. All of these stifling rules not only apply to rock and pop music but especially to hip hop, which is a shame. What saddens me is the same beat having, the bling bling and the message of "C.R.E.A.M." (Cash Rules Everything Around Me). Now don't get it twisted, I am all for artists getting the money that is due to them. But if I have to hear one more song that sounds like it has been made in the "we need a hit- formula" I fear that I may snap.

I used to think- I am more interested in the production and the beat of the song. But now I understand that I was only interested in those things because the lyrics lacked any feeling or actual thought. Talib Kweli has been called a "thinking man's rapper" and to that I agree. In actuality he is a lyricist- not a rapper- sometimes I hate that term. I can only say that I really admire his conviction and true loyalty to his craft. If you have never heard of Talib- let me know and I will provide you with a copy of his CDs. As a result of him (and many others) I am a mad fan of socially conscious hip hop. HIP HOP WITH A SOUL.