So is it a good thing that Blaxploitation films are having their chance at the remake, ‘revisioning’, process that seems to be the only original concept in Hollywood these days? It’s bad enough that every 3rd film that comes out these days is a remake or sequel of some prior movie, television show, book or comic book. The concept of an original idea seem to be a void in the minds of producers and entertainment executives. Seriously.
So far in this year (all 3 months of it) there has been a movie based on a play, a serial killer, 2 comic books, a dictator, 2 television shows (including the animated one), and a book. That does not count the remake, prequel, sequel (Are We Done Yet isn’t out yet but will be shortly), ‘revisioned’ idea {the concept of Shooter has been done so many times, like a version by Mr. Keenan Ivory Williams as one example) and remake sequel. To be fair, The Last King of Scotland and Dreamgirls came out in 2006. But come on, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is based on a comic book from the 1980’s and has already had 2 other movies and 2 versions of a daily cartoon. While some may be too young to realize it 300 and Hill Have Eyes 2 are remakes. Ghost Rider is an old comic book character and the Zodiac was a real killer and has been featured in at least one television movie as I recall.
What might the summer bring us? Sequels – Ocean’s Thirteen, Bourne Ultimatum, Pirates of the Caribbean, Spiderman 3. Comic books – Transformers (also at least 4 versions of cartoon series). Television show – The Simpsons Movie. And that’s what I can think of off the top of my head. Do executives think the public is as lazy as they are, since they seem to be trying not to reach out for new ideas. Or is it that entertainment companies are so afraid of trying a new idea and seeing it fail that they won’t greenlight anything that hasn’t already been done?
I don’t think it’s the talent. There are more than a few talented actors in most every genre right now. There are many that have made movies in multiple formats. Mr. Mark Wahlberg has done action, drama and comedic action. Mr. Denzel Washington has run the gambit of movie genres and been both good and bad guys. Do I really need to go further?
So I ask, is the fact that Dolemite is going to be remade, or revisioned, really a good thing? Views on Blaxploitation films run the spectrum from very happy to highly insulted. I can only imagine what the film might be like in a PC dominated world, where every minority and race needs to be represented in a film whether it makes sense or not. Even worse is the fact that many words are verboten, unless of course they are put to music or bring in a really big profit.
I suppose the answer will be the film itself, once it comes out. It may be good. Some of the above mentioned films are quite good. Some have huge anticipation behind them. And then there are the ones that are a waste of time. I just fear a trend that I see. If I’m right, expect your favorite television commercial to be brought to the silver screen. Won’t that be a joy? [As I mentioned previously, the cavemen from Geiko are getting their own television show. A movie is not that farfetched now is it?]
This is what I think, what do you think?
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Friday, March 30, 2007
From here to there in a few words - 3.30.2007.1
So what else has happened in the world as Paris Hilton get more air-time than could ever be justified. Well in India there was a woman that gave one of the strongest expressions of love that I think I’ve ever heard. It seems that the woman was engaged a short while before her fiancé fell down a well and died. That is a sad thing, but what was sweet was her commitment Prior to her betroved being buried the woman, with the blessing of his family, married the love of her life. That’s a statement. At first look I thought it was creepy, but in thinking about it I find it sweet. Now where is an example of something like that here at home?
Now for something completely different. UFO conspirators rejoice. Yes there has been confirmation from France that something is out there, and it visited here. Since 1954 France has held onto documented cases, some seen by thousands, which cannot be explained by an earthbound means. This is similar to the Project Bluebook files that were (and possibly continue to be) held by the United States Air Force. While many of the files released to the internet were explained, roughly 400 have not been. It just goes to prove the simple math I have long believed. There are just too many solar systems, galaxies and so on in the universe to believe we are the only things alive and with intelligence in it. It just smacks of the same logic that held the earth as flat or that our planet was the center of the universe. One day, if we don’t kill ourselves off [high probability], I’m sure that thinking will seem as absurd as the current consensus.
Following the pattern of jumps, The Shield will start its new season on Monday. I can’t wait. Vic Mackey, Mr. Michael Chiklis, is a unique character, both endearing for his loyalty and angering in his blatant corruption. With Mr. Forest Whitaker still in the cast, and causing no lack of problems for Mackey and his crew, sparks may be the least of things to fly.
And Shane, Mr. Walton Goggins, better watch his back. His murder of a teammate was brutal and wrong. I cannot see any of the dwindling Strike Team members forgiving this. I can see a vicious retaliation. Especially when you consider the fact that there are a few ‘innocents’ that are going to have a ton of bricks come down on their heads before the truth is known. [On a side note, imagine having to kill your best friend in real life. In a manner of speaking Mr. Goggins did exactly that. In real life he is very good long time friends with Mr. Kenneth Johnson who portrayed the conflicted Lem. The day they filmed the murder both men had just returned from the 2006 Super Bowl that Mr. Johnson invited Mr. Goggins to. That’s rough.]
Continuing to the next thing, the world of books. I know some must still read actual books, I do. For those who have read the actual Lord of the Rings Trilogy, perhaps good news. The son of JRR Tolkein has finished his father’s last book. From what I understand it’s not a continuation of the story, nor even in Middle Earth. Yet the themes of the 4 parts of the One Ring stories are maintained. [Yes 4 parts. The Hobbit starts it all. And no there isn’t a movie of it yet. And the movie will not be made by Mr. Peter Jackson. You have been warned.] This is something to pick up. I’ll read it shortly after it comes out and let you know what I think.
Oh, expect a review of 300. Late as it may be. Good movie, in parts, but a bit disappointing as well.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Now for something completely different. UFO conspirators rejoice. Yes there has been confirmation from France that something is out there, and it visited here. Since 1954 France has held onto documented cases, some seen by thousands, which cannot be explained by an earthbound means. This is similar to the Project Bluebook files that were (and possibly continue to be) held by the United States Air Force. While many of the files released to the internet were explained, roughly 400 have not been. It just goes to prove the simple math I have long believed. There are just too many solar systems, galaxies and so on in the universe to believe we are the only things alive and with intelligence in it. It just smacks of the same logic that held the earth as flat or that our planet was the center of the universe. One day, if we don’t kill ourselves off [high probability], I’m sure that thinking will seem as absurd as the current consensus.
Following the pattern of jumps, The Shield will start its new season on Monday. I can’t wait. Vic Mackey, Mr. Michael Chiklis, is a unique character, both endearing for his loyalty and angering in his blatant corruption. With Mr. Forest Whitaker still in the cast, and causing no lack of problems for Mackey and his crew, sparks may be the least of things to fly.
And Shane, Mr. Walton Goggins, better watch his back. His murder of a teammate was brutal and wrong. I cannot see any of the dwindling Strike Team members forgiving this. I can see a vicious retaliation. Especially when you consider the fact that there are a few ‘innocents’ that are going to have a ton of bricks come down on their heads before the truth is known. [On a side note, imagine having to kill your best friend in real life. In a manner of speaking Mr. Goggins did exactly that. In real life he is very good long time friends with Mr. Kenneth Johnson who portrayed the conflicted Lem. The day they filmed the murder both men had just returned from the 2006 Super Bowl that Mr. Johnson invited Mr. Goggins to. That’s rough.]
Continuing to the next thing, the world of books. I know some must still read actual books, I do. For those who have read the actual Lord of the Rings Trilogy, perhaps good news. The son of JRR Tolkein has finished his father’s last book. From what I understand it’s not a continuation of the story, nor even in Middle Earth. Yet the themes of the 4 parts of the One Ring stories are maintained. [Yes 4 parts. The Hobbit starts it all. And no there isn’t a movie of it yet. And the movie will not be made by Mr. Peter Jackson. You have been warned.] This is something to pick up. I’ll read it shortly after it comes out and let you know what I think.
Oh, expect a review of 300. Late as it may be. Good movie, in parts, but a bit disappointing as well.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Losing notable entertainers - 3.28.2007.1
Well I suppose I could talk about the continuing legal troubles of Ms. Foxy Brown, or perhaps whether or not the kid on American Idol has talent or just big hair. Then again I could also jump off a bridge. Instead I’ll talk about a couple of other items that caught my interest you might have missed recently.
There were a few sad loses recently in the entertainment community. One of them was the loss of director Mr. Stuart Rosenberg. You may not recall the name, but many will recall his films. These films include the Amityville Horror (the original), Cool Hand Luke (a very good Mr. Paul Newman film with Mr. George Kennedy as well), Brubaker (great Mr. Robert Redford film), and The Pope of Greenwich Village. All of these films are deserving of being seen, well maybe not the Amityville Horror but it’s still watchable. This does not even touch on his numerous television directing credits. It’s always a shame to have such talented people pass.
Not quite as talented, but no less a loss was the popular Mr. Calvert DeForest. The name may not be as familiar as his most famous character, Larry ‘Bud’ Melman. Often seen on the Letterman Show from 1982 to 2002, he was a beloved recurring character. A unique blend of less than handsome looks, meek personality, and huge amounts of warmth his everyman qualities made him a regular staple on Letterman and endeared him to millions of fans. He had many other roles on television and a few movies as well, but it was his Letterman Show character that drew his biggest fame and placed him in events like the Winter Olympics and the anniversary of Woodstock. Talent in entertainment is always a great thing, but genuine warmth and likeability cannot be manufactured. Again it is a sad loss to us all.
In a loss of a different nature there is the fact that Mr. Bernie Mac has announced that he will be ending his 30 year career in entertainment after his film The Whole Truth, Nothing But The Truth, So Help Me Mac. Mr. Mac may be best known for his television show, The Bernie Mac Show and his part in the very successful film The Original Kings Of Comedy. That is just a small part of his 3 decades of entertaining the masses. Besides his roles in each of the Ocean’s Eleven films (the third, Ocean’s Thirteen out this summer), The upcoming Transformers movie, The Charlie’s Angels sequel, What’s the Worst That Could Happen (with Mr. Martin Lawrence), Life (With Mr. Lawrence and Mr. Eddie Murphy), Get on the Bus, and House Party 3 to name a few. This doesn’t even touch upon his numerous television appearances and comedy club performances. His appeal reached all Americans equally.
While I have found his performances to be hit and miss, like Mr. 3000, he is a good entertainer and humorous stand-up comedian. I can understand his desire to regain part of his life lost in 47 week tours and decades in the entertainment industry. I hope that there are still a few choice roles that Mr. Mac may be presented in the future. As a Black American actor and as an entertainer in general I think to lose his talents completely will be a void few will adequately fill.
This is what I think, what do you think?
There were a few sad loses recently in the entertainment community. One of them was the loss of director Mr. Stuart Rosenberg. You may not recall the name, but many will recall his films. These films include the Amityville Horror (the original), Cool Hand Luke (a very good Mr. Paul Newman film with Mr. George Kennedy as well), Brubaker (great Mr. Robert Redford film), and The Pope of Greenwich Village. All of these films are deserving of being seen, well maybe not the Amityville Horror but it’s still watchable. This does not even touch on his numerous television directing credits. It’s always a shame to have such talented people pass.
Not quite as talented, but no less a loss was the popular Mr. Calvert DeForest. The name may not be as familiar as his most famous character, Larry ‘Bud’ Melman. Often seen on the Letterman Show from 1982 to 2002, he was a beloved recurring character. A unique blend of less than handsome looks, meek personality, and huge amounts of warmth his everyman qualities made him a regular staple on Letterman and endeared him to millions of fans. He had many other roles on television and a few movies as well, but it was his Letterman Show character that drew his biggest fame and placed him in events like the Winter Olympics and the anniversary of Woodstock. Talent in entertainment is always a great thing, but genuine warmth and likeability cannot be manufactured. Again it is a sad loss to us all.
In a loss of a different nature there is the fact that Mr. Bernie Mac has announced that he will be ending his 30 year career in entertainment after his film The Whole Truth, Nothing But The Truth, So Help Me Mac. Mr. Mac may be best known for his television show, The Bernie Mac Show and his part in the very successful film The Original Kings Of Comedy. That is just a small part of his 3 decades of entertaining the masses. Besides his roles in each of the Ocean’s Eleven films (the third, Ocean’s Thirteen out this summer), The upcoming Transformers movie, The Charlie’s Angels sequel, What’s the Worst That Could Happen (with Mr. Martin Lawrence), Life (With Mr. Lawrence and Mr. Eddie Murphy), Get on the Bus, and House Party 3 to name a few. This doesn’t even touch upon his numerous television appearances and comedy club performances. His appeal reached all Americans equally.
While I have found his performances to be hit and miss, like Mr. 3000, he is a good entertainer and humorous stand-up comedian. I can understand his desire to regain part of his life lost in 47 week tours and decades in the entertainment industry. I hope that there are still a few choice roles that Mr. Mac may be presented in the future. As a Black American actor and as an entertainer in general I think to lose his talents completely will be a void few will adequately fill.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Want half? Have time? Fear the Barcode and a really sick guy - 3.27.2007.2
Time for some odd bits, and stuff I missed speaking about earlier. I’ll start with something for the religious readers. It seems that people in Russia don’t like barcodes, or more specifically the barcodes that are on their pension checks and passports. Why would a barcode cause such a reaction? Well when you live in a town that means God loving, anything that might hint of the satanic is just not going to fly, or so you might expect. And just as you would guess the barcodes on the passports and pension checks have the mark of the beast on them. So the good villagers won’t touch these items.
Now I have to wonder, did some bureaucrat guess that this town would reach like this, and figured there was some money to be had or saved by having the code read as it does? If not this is one heck of a coincidence, or providence if you prefer. It does make me think of one thing though. As slow and boring as it is where I am living now, I’m still more active than what it must be to have nothing better to do than read the barcode numbers on anything. But I’d guess that’s better than watching the grass grow. Don’t you feel better about where you live now?
Moving back across the ocean to home I am further impressed with this town because there hasn’t been a report of anyone getting arrested on the same charges as a man in Duluth, Minn. Now what could one guy do that would make me nervous? The guy was convicted of having sex with a dead deer. Yes a dead deer. I don’t know what part of that is worse, that he had sex with an animal or that it was dead. Either way this is not a neighbor I would want. At 20 years of age you would imagine that he could do better. But obviously he has a problem. A huge problem. I don’t think I need to say more than that.
Going back overseas, to Germany this time, I found something that may be one of the best solutions I’ve heard of for dividing assets in a divorce. A man seems to have felt that since is soon-to-be ex-wife wanted half of the house; he would give her just that. Exactly half. He went to the house, which was a one story building, and took a chainsaw to it. Cut down the middle he then picked up his half and moved it to where he was staying. Now his ex-missus may not be pleased but I doubt she could complain. He left her half right where it was. Perhaps the only divorce horror story I’ve ever heard that was better is that a guy paid his alimony, which was quite large, in pennies. Hey it’s legal tender. Still either option is pretty unique. It just reminds me why it’s cheaper to be single. Anyone know a better story than these?
For those with a bit more time, there is a site I noticed that you might want to visit, or maybe you already did. The site at livescience.com asks what the best time travel story is and allows you to rate several choices. It’s not the biggest selection of time-travel stories, but it does include Kurt Vonnegut, H. G. Wells [the book is best, the recent remake was so-so], the movies 12 Monkeys, Back to the Future, Planet of the Apes [the original was 1000x better than the remake], and Groundhog Day among others. My pick is Groundhog Day. You can choose whichever you prefer.
Of course the list misses a lot of stuff, like A Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, Timecop, Terminator, Star Trek 4, Time’s Arrow, Army of Darkness, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, The Butterfly Effect [I mean the story NOT the movie], and The Philadelphia Experiment to name a few I can think of off the top. My top 3 – Army of Darkness, Terminator, and Groundhog Day. And you?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Now I have to wonder, did some bureaucrat guess that this town would reach like this, and figured there was some money to be had or saved by having the code read as it does? If not this is one heck of a coincidence, or providence if you prefer. It does make me think of one thing though. As slow and boring as it is where I am living now, I’m still more active than what it must be to have nothing better to do than read the barcode numbers on anything. But I’d guess that’s better than watching the grass grow. Don’t you feel better about where you live now?
Moving back across the ocean to home I am further impressed with this town because there hasn’t been a report of anyone getting arrested on the same charges as a man in Duluth, Minn. Now what could one guy do that would make me nervous? The guy was convicted of having sex with a dead deer. Yes a dead deer. I don’t know what part of that is worse, that he had sex with an animal or that it was dead. Either way this is not a neighbor I would want. At 20 years of age you would imagine that he could do better. But obviously he has a problem. A huge problem. I don’t think I need to say more than that.
Going back overseas, to Germany this time, I found something that may be one of the best solutions I’ve heard of for dividing assets in a divorce. A man seems to have felt that since is soon-to-be ex-wife wanted half of the house; he would give her just that. Exactly half. He went to the house, which was a one story building, and took a chainsaw to it. Cut down the middle he then picked up his half and moved it to where he was staying. Now his ex-missus may not be pleased but I doubt she could complain. He left her half right where it was. Perhaps the only divorce horror story I’ve ever heard that was better is that a guy paid his alimony, which was quite large, in pennies. Hey it’s legal tender. Still either option is pretty unique. It just reminds me why it’s cheaper to be single. Anyone know a better story than these?
For those with a bit more time, there is a site I noticed that you might want to visit, or maybe you already did. The site at livescience.com asks what the best time travel story is and allows you to rate several choices. It’s not the biggest selection of time-travel stories, but it does include Kurt Vonnegut, H. G. Wells [the book is best, the recent remake was so-so], the movies 12 Monkeys, Back to the Future, Planet of the Apes [the original was 1000x better than the remake], and Groundhog Day among others. My pick is Groundhog Day. You can choose whichever you prefer.
Of course the list misses a lot of stuff, like A Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, Timecop, Terminator, Star Trek 4, Time’s Arrow, Army of Darkness, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, The Butterfly Effect [I mean the story NOT the movie], and The Philadelphia Experiment to name a few I can think of off the top. My top 3 – Army of Darkness, Terminator, and Groundhog Day. And you?
This is what I think, what do you think?
Planes, Ferrari's, and Soceer - 3.27.2007.1
So as there is constant news out about Mr. Eddie Griffin crashing a million+ dollar sports car, the world turns. I’m happy to mention that Mr. Griffin was unhurt in the accident, though the fact it was caught on videotape will probably hurt his ego more than anything else. The executive producer, of Redline which Mr. Eddie Griffin stars in, though is at least publicly taking it in stride since the car was an Enzo Ferrari which he owned. Of course Mr. Daniel Sadek is correct when he says, “There's people dying every day. A lot of worse things are happening in the world.” And if this accident adds any interest to those going to see the $26 million dollar film, I’m sure he will be able to afford one of the remaining 399 Ferrari’s out there. Considering its cost and stylish nature, not to mention the ability and reputation of Mr. Griffin I’m sure he will.
In other movie news there is something that I think has potential. It might even capture the attention of the few Soccer (futbol) fans out there. Discussions are ongoing for a film featuring the life of Pele. For those unfamiliar, Pele is one of the first entertainers to be known simply by one name. One of the greatest soccer stars ever, he helped create the environment that lead to the current American national soccer team. While Team USA is rough around the edges, at best, there was no real interest prior to the appearance of Pele playing here. In addition it’s said he was able to create a cease-fire in a civil war just because he was playing. Now tell me that isn’t something worthy of making a movie about. In terms of recognition and ability among athletes throughout the world, this single name ranks along with Mr. Muhammad Ali. Do I seem excited? You bet. The big question is who is in shape enough, and has enough acting talent, to play him in a movie. If any names of rappers come up, I guarantee the movie is doomed.
As a side note, I just saw Mr. Donny Osmond speaking about his new television show American Vote. I have to say the man does not look like a 50 year old grandfather. He looks like he did back in the 1970’s. Yes I’m old enough to have seen the Donny and Marie Show and remember it.
So since I mentioned rappers I should mention my deep sadness that all Britain’s must be experiencing now. The cause of this national depression emanates from the news that a tour featuring Snoop Dogg and P. Diddy (otherwise known as Calvin Broadus and Sean Combs) has been canceled. It seems that Snoop cannot get a visa to enter England. This is obviously in reaction to the ruckus that Snoop caused the last time he was there. [You can see my comments on that incident at Breaking the law entertainer-style]
Good for merry ol’ England. It’s about time someone smack a little reality and responsibility on those rappers that choose to treat laws, and people, as mere toys. Perhaps the lesson of respecting people and laws will sink in a bit. Though with Mr. Broadus this one action may not be enough. I say this because it is hardly the first time that he has been penalized for his misbehavior. Still, the funds lost from the 5 performances should have an impact on him and Mr. Combs. Perhaps Mr. Combs will be able to say something so that future trips anywhere in the world will be more civilized. Considering how motivated many rappers seem to be by money, this could be the key. Especially if other nations, and airline companies, step up and do the same thing to those that flaunt common decency. Again I say Hurrah to the Brits.
This is what I think, what do you think?
In other movie news there is something that I think has potential. It might even capture the attention of the few Soccer (futbol) fans out there. Discussions are ongoing for a film featuring the life of Pele. For those unfamiliar, Pele is one of the first entertainers to be known simply by one name. One of the greatest soccer stars ever, he helped create the environment that lead to the current American national soccer team. While Team USA is rough around the edges, at best, there was no real interest prior to the appearance of Pele playing here. In addition it’s said he was able to create a cease-fire in a civil war just because he was playing. Now tell me that isn’t something worthy of making a movie about. In terms of recognition and ability among athletes throughout the world, this single name ranks along with Mr. Muhammad Ali. Do I seem excited? You bet. The big question is who is in shape enough, and has enough acting talent, to play him in a movie. If any names of rappers come up, I guarantee the movie is doomed.
As a side note, I just saw Mr. Donny Osmond speaking about his new television show American Vote. I have to say the man does not look like a 50 year old grandfather. He looks like he did back in the 1970’s. Yes I’m old enough to have seen the Donny and Marie Show and remember it.
So since I mentioned rappers I should mention my deep sadness that all Britain’s must be experiencing now. The cause of this national depression emanates from the news that a tour featuring Snoop Dogg and P. Diddy (otherwise known as Calvin Broadus and Sean Combs) has been canceled. It seems that Snoop cannot get a visa to enter England. This is obviously in reaction to the ruckus that Snoop caused the last time he was there. [You can see my comments on that incident at Breaking the law entertainer-style]
Good for merry ol’ England. It’s about time someone smack a little reality and responsibility on those rappers that choose to treat laws, and people, as mere toys. Perhaps the lesson of respecting people and laws will sink in a bit. Though with Mr. Broadus this one action may not be enough. I say this because it is hardly the first time that he has been penalized for his misbehavior. Still, the funds lost from the 5 performances should have an impact on him and Mr. Combs. Perhaps Mr. Combs will be able to say something so that future trips anywhere in the world will be more civilized. Considering how motivated many rappers seem to be by money, this could be the key. Especially if other nations, and airline companies, step up and do the same thing to those that flaunt common decency. Again I say Hurrah to the Brits.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Another Blackplanet poll - 3.22.2007.1
I have seen a poll recently, found at Blackplanet.com, that is quite interesting. The question the poll asks is “What medium has the most negative images of Blacks?”
It’s a good question. The choices are the TV, Newspapers. Internet, Music, Movies and Film. This is an ongoing survey with only 4742 respondents at the moment (out of a potential of several million that are part of Blackplanet), but it is still quite interesting. Which of these would you pick as the single worst source of negative imagery? [I’m not sure what the difference is between Film and Movies as I see them as being the same thing, but excluding that issue the question stands.]
You might be surprised by the answer. Then again maybe not. The Internet and Film both hit the bottom of the list at 3%, followed in order by Newspapers at 8%, Movies at 9%, TV 25% and the big leader is Music at 53%. I have no doubt that Music leads this group due to music videos, especially those of rappers that feature the ladies barely clothed and gyrating. Of course those with the ridiculous (my opinion) stuff on their teeth, or those incapable of speaking their native language are no less unattractive.
Given the recent news of the decline of sales for rap music, the media assault that tried to link the abuse of children and the teens that provided drugs to them to rap, and the actions of various individuals (such as the cops making their own impromptu video) based on the commoditization of Black culture – beyond the various antics of numerous rappers themselves – this points to an interesting trend. As the version of rap that floods the airwaves and music videos becomes less appealing, and the focus of many African Americans turns away from the ‘ghettofabulous’, I wonder what will happen next. Where will the executives of the music industry turn next to inflate sales of this genre. Will they retreat from the former ‘gansta’ rap splinter and expand the genre to include more positive formats.
Ten years ago I doubt that these results would be so strongly against music. But as the teens and 20-somethings of the 1990’s mature it seems that they see less value and more of the downside of what was touted as merely an expression of what was the real life on the streets. Interestingly some of these supposed street prophets never grew up in the environment they espoused about (like Ice Cube and Dr Dre if my memory serves me, among others), and the number of one hit flash-in-the-pans grew massively. While the music industry was flooded with this one style (which smacks of censorship to me) and Black culture was commoditized, the second generation of rap aged and music videos innovated on misogyny and female gyration. I’m not surprised by the stagnation of the genre, I am by the fact that it is finally sinking in even as record companies seek new ways to market the same trash in new packages.
So if this poll gains a couple of million respondents will the results continue to maintain these values? Does this mean that we may again see more positive or political rap artists? Might the egos and actions of rap/hip-hop entertainers fall from the lofty delusional self-important heights they exist at now? Like “...Because Kayne West didn’t win best video he decided to jump onstage and berate the audience, some of which may be his fans, because he felt unappreciated. The fact he did win an award wasn’t good enough. With an ego seemingly that large one would have to wonder how it all fit on that stage.”
Perhaps I am too harsh, or expect too much. Perhaps I feel the need to critique these instant ultra-entertainers, like when I commented on Eminem “…Secondly, Eminem is hardly a gold standard to follow. Eminem failed 9th grade three times and dropped out of high school. He has made millions attacking his mother and then ex-wife on various recordings. He received 2 years probation on a concealed weapons charge [shall we say slap on the wrist], was sued for defamation, and is often noted for his apparent homophobia (performing on stage with a gay man is a marketing gimmick not a statement about personal thoughts) and misogyny as expressed by his music. The last 2 items, and possibly the legal charges, are of course positives when rappers are concerned. But to be considered a role model seems hardly credible…”
If I am too extreme in my thoughts, good. There needs to be a balance and difference in opinion. And it seems that my side of the equation is growing.
This is what I think, what do you think?
It’s a good question. The choices are the TV, Newspapers. Internet, Music, Movies and Film. This is an ongoing survey with only 4742 respondents at the moment (out of a potential of several million that are part of Blackplanet), but it is still quite interesting. Which of these would you pick as the single worst source of negative imagery? [I’m not sure what the difference is between Film and Movies as I see them as being the same thing, but excluding that issue the question stands.]
You might be surprised by the answer. Then again maybe not. The Internet and Film both hit the bottom of the list at 3%, followed in order by Newspapers at 8%, Movies at 9%, TV 25% and the big leader is Music at 53%. I have no doubt that Music leads this group due to music videos, especially those of rappers that feature the ladies barely clothed and gyrating. Of course those with the ridiculous (my opinion) stuff on their teeth, or those incapable of speaking their native language are no less unattractive.
Given the recent news of the decline of sales for rap music, the media assault that tried to link the abuse of children and the teens that provided drugs to them to rap, and the actions of various individuals (such as the cops making their own impromptu video) based on the commoditization of Black culture – beyond the various antics of numerous rappers themselves – this points to an interesting trend. As the version of rap that floods the airwaves and music videos becomes less appealing, and the focus of many African Americans turns away from the ‘ghettofabulous’, I wonder what will happen next. Where will the executives of the music industry turn next to inflate sales of this genre. Will they retreat from the former ‘gansta’ rap splinter and expand the genre to include more positive formats.
Ten years ago I doubt that these results would be so strongly against music. But as the teens and 20-somethings of the 1990’s mature it seems that they see less value and more of the downside of what was touted as merely an expression of what was the real life on the streets. Interestingly some of these supposed street prophets never grew up in the environment they espoused about (like Ice Cube and Dr Dre if my memory serves me, among others), and the number of one hit flash-in-the-pans grew massively. While the music industry was flooded with this one style (which smacks of censorship to me) and Black culture was commoditized, the second generation of rap aged and music videos innovated on misogyny and female gyration. I’m not surprised by the stagnation of the genre, I am by the fact that it is finally sinking in even as record companies seek new ways to market the same trash in new packages.
So if this poll gains a couple of million respondents will the results continue to maintain these values? Does this mean that we may again see more positive or political rap artists? Might the egos and actions of rap/hip-hop entertainers fall from the lofty delusional self-important heights they exist at now? Like “...Because Kayne West didn’t win best video he decided to jump onstage and berate the audience, some of which may be his fans, because he felt unappreciated. The fact he did win an award wasn’t good enough. With an ego seemingly that large one would have to wonder how it all fit on that stage.”
Perhaps I am too harsh, or expect too much. Perhaps I feel the need to critique these instant ultra-entertainers, like when I commented on Eminem “…Secondly, Eminem is hardly a gold standard to follow. Eminem failed 9th grade three times and dropped out of high school. He has made millions attacking his mother and then ex-wife on various recordings. He received 2 years probation on a concealed weapons charge [shall we say slap on the wrist], was sued for defamation, and is often noted for his apparent homophobia (performing on stage with a gay man is a marketing gimmick not a statement about personal thoughts) and misogyny as expressed by his music. The last 2 items, and possibly the legal charges, are of course positives when rappers are concerned. But to be considered a role model seems hardly credible…”
If I am too extreme in my thoughts, good. There needs to be a balance and difference in opinion. And it seems that my side of the equation is growing.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Fox News turns a blind eye - 3.21.2007.1
I am pissed at Fox News. I watch this channel daily, while I am at work. I find their views close to my own on various issues, especially politics. I have often referred to them when I am commenting on a current event or breaking news. Generally it’s a decent 24 hour cable news network. Then there are the exceptions.
Let me first commend the channel on their attention to missing children. I feel the channel takes a lot of time to announce and follow Amber Alerts, broadcasts of missing children. I feel the news organization has a real desire to protect and make the public aware of issues with children. That is a positive that shouldn’t be taken away from the cable news channel.
Beyond this compliment I have noticed an issue with them. I’ve mentioned it before and I believe I will need to again in the future. Fox News seems to have difficulty providing equal coverage to African American and minority children. There are many examples of this, but today it just hit the top.
I’m referring to news about the Boy Scout that was lost, and 2 girls that were abducted in Texas, I may have gotten the location wrong, on Saturday. The Boy Scout has been a featured item for the last 3 days. It’s known now that the boy was attempting to hitchhike home and got lost in the woods. There was roughly 10 minutes of coverage per hour for at least 2 days, with about 2-3 minutes of coverage per hour today after the boy has been found and has been with his family for 24 hours. That is a good thing to know. I’m glad the boy was found alive and relatively well. I’m sure his family is rejoicing.
But on Saturday there were to teen girls that were abducted. We know that this happened because there was a call from a cell at 4 (I am unsure if that is am or pm) were they were screaming which was the last time they were heard from. This information never hit the air, that I am aware of. The first I heard about this was today, for 45 seconds. Thankfully this was because the 2 girls were found 200 miles from where they lived, injured but alive. The police stated that they felt this was a serious abduction and not a prank.
So what makes the boy lost in the woods so much more newsworthy? Why was the fact that an apparent kidnapping of teens in an urban environment, with a cryptic message less important than all other news? Why is the news of their being found alive and a police investigation into their situation only worth 1 scant announcement lasting barely a minute? Why is the news of the Boy Scout already with his family, lost due to his own bad decisions, worthy of at least 5 announcements of roughly 2 minutes a piece in the last 4 hours?
I don’t expect Fox News, or any cable news network, to follow every single abduction of children and Amber Alert in the nation. Perhaps there should be a cable channel just for that; but that is a separate issue. Since the New Year started I recall 2 missing children features that had children of color. I recall about 7 or more for non-minority children. I have seen coverage of white teens committing crimes that are brushed aside, and others getting an hour or more coverage for things like demonstrations at schools. Yet African American children seem to only be referred to when a violent or drug laden action has happened.
There was plenty of time to cover the Long Island girls that had the Youtube broadcast fight, maybe 2 hours of coverage. The white girls that had a similar taped fight got maybe 15 minutes of coverage. The toddlers given marijuana by teens got roughly 3 hours of attention, yet I’ve seen nothing that was mentioned about this being something that happens across the nation to families of all colors. I know it’s not just a minority thing as I’ve heard locally of such acts, by white parents – who were then disciplined by the police.
There is plenty of time to talk about the various issues of Anna Nicole Smith, who contributed nothing to the sum total of the planet (I’m not being cruel, it’s just honest), or women’s basketball, or Britney Spears coming out of rehab. There is no lack of air-time to discuss why the Boy Scout wanted to hitchhike home, or that the family does not want to release any information about which hospital he may now be in, if any. Yet there is no space to get into any depth on 2 Black American girls that were taken against their will, injured, found 200 miles from home, and are now thankfully being reunited with their families.
So the thought is why has Fox News taken what seems to be this active prioritization on news events? What is fair and balanced on this current reporting? Which event seems more news worthy to you, finding out what the Boy Scout looks like now that he is home after trying to hitchhike home or finding out who essentially kidnapped and possibly assaulted two girls for several days and is still loose to attack your daughter, sister or mother? Does the race of these 2 girls matter to you if your family member is the next victim, loose because color of skin seemed to matter to an executive at Fox News.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Let me first commend the channel on their attention to missing children. I feel the channel takes a lot of time to announce and follow Amber Alerts, broadcasts of missing children. I feel the news organization has a real desire to protect and make the public aware of issues with children. That is a positive that shouldn’t be taken away from the cable news channel.
Beyond this compliment I have noticed an issue with them. I’ve mentioned it before and I believe I will need to again in the future. Fox News seems to have difficulty providing equal coverage to African American and minority children. There are many examples of this, but today it just hit the top.
I’m referring to news about the Boy Scout that was lost, and 2 girls that were abducted in Texas, I may have gotten the location wrong, on Saturday. The Boy Scout has been a featured item for the last 3 days. It’s known now that the boy was attempting to hitchhike home and got lost in the woods. There was roughly 10 minutes of coverage per hour for at least 2 days, with about 2-3 minutes of coverage per hour today after the boy has been found and has been with his family for 24 hours. That is a good thing to know. I’m glad the boy was found alive and relatively well. I’m sure his family is rejoicing.
But on Saturday there were to teen girls that were abducted. We know that this happened because there was a call from a cell at 4 (I am unsure if that is am or pm) were they were screaming which was the last time they were heard from. This information never hit the air, that I am aware of. The first I heard about this was today, for 45 seconds. Thankfully this was because the 2 girls were found 200 miles from where they lived, injured but alive. The police stated that they felt this was a serious abduction and not a prank.
So what makes the boy lost in the woods so much more newsworthy? Why was the fact that an apparent kidnapping of teens in an urban environment, with a cryptic message less important than all other news? Why is the news of their being found alive and a police investigation into their situation only worth 1 scant announcement lasting barely a minute? Why is the news of the Boy Scout already with his family, lost due to his own bad decisions, worthy of at least 5 announcements of roughly 2 minutes a piece in the last 4 hours?
I don’t expect Fox News, or any cable news network, to follow every single abduction of children and Amber Alert in the nation. Perhaps there should be a cable channel just for that; but that is a separate issue. Since the New Year started I recall 2 missing children features that had children of color. I recall about 7 or more for non-minority children. I have seen coverage of white teens committing crimes that are brushed aside, and others getting an hour or more coverage for things like demonstrations at schools. Yet African American children seem to only be referred to when a violent or drug laden action has happened.
There was plenty of time to cover the Long Island girls that had the Youtube broadcast fight, maybe 2 hours of coverage. The white girls that had a similar taped fight got maybe 15 minutes of coverage. The toddlers given marijuana by teens got roughly 3 hours of attention, yet I’ve seen nothing that was mentioned about this being something that happens across the nation to families of all colors. I know it’s not just a minority thing as I’ve heard locally of such acts, by white parents – who were then disciplined by the police.
There is plenty of time to talk about the various issues of Anna Nicole Smith, who contributed nothing to the sum total of the planet (I’m not being cruel, it’s just honest), or women’s basketball, or Britney Spears coming out of rehab. There is no lack of air-time to discuss why the Boy Scout wanted to hitchhike home, or that the family does not want to release any information about which hospital he may now be in, if any. Yet there is no space to get into any depth on 2 Black American girls that were taken against their will, injured, found 200 miles from home, and are now thankfully being reunited with their families.
So the thought is why has Fox News taken what seems to be this active prioritization on news events? What is fair and balanced on this current reporting? Which event seems more news worthy to you, finding out what the Boy Scout looks like now that he is home after trying to hitchhike home or finding out who essentially kidnapped and possibly assaulted two girls for several days and is still loose to attack your daughter, sister or mother? Does the race of these 2 girls matter to you if your family member is the next victim, loose because color of skin seemed to matter to an executive at Fox News.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
What movie will you go see? - 3.20.2007.2
So what are you planning to watch this summer? There is a huge list of movies coming out soon, and for once there are several that look quite good. An obvious choice would be Pirates of the Caribbean 3 or the Harry Potter movies. Another solid choice is Spiderman 3. But what about a movie that isn’t a sequel of a good idea?
Well there aren’t a lot of choices for the non-repeat films. Even horrible films such as the Fantastic Four have a sequel. Why? No idea, it’s not as if the first film was good. Perhaps the teenage boys hoping to peak at an invisible Ms. Jessica Alba is the motivation. I really can’t imagine it being much else. While I am a fan of the Silver Surfer, and his effects look quite good, I doubt that this movie will do justice to him or Galactus. Perhaps I will be wrong, but they screwed up Dr. Doom and the initial storyline so I doubt this will be better. Wait for the DVD.
Another sequel that has gone one movie too far is Rush Hour 3. I love Mr. Jackie Chan, he is quite accomplished and has made multiple good movies. Rush Hour 2 was not one of them and I fear 3 will rank beside The Tuxedo. Mr. Chris Tucker was good in the limited role in Fifth Element, and decent in the original film. But his acting abilities are stretched to breaking in the subsequent film and I believe will have snapped in this film. Don’t expect much and you may get just that. Get the bootleg DVD.
A possibly good movie sequel could be Ocean’s Thirteen. The cast is back plus someone else. Someone that you would never expect. No it’s not the baby. Ms. Ellen Barkin seems to be taking over the role done by Ms. Julia Roberts. And Mr. Al Pacino is the bad guy. That is the main reason this may be good. He picks his roles well. The rest of the cast are solid, and obviously they work together as well as a cast of stars can. But I just don’t get how they have the 13th member on the team. We will see. I’d go to the theater for this. (a trailer for this film is out now.)
Another positive choice should be the last in the Jason Bourne series, the Bourne Ultimatum. The final part of a 3 book series, of which the movies do not follow the books verbatim, this should be great. The first 2 films were well done. Mr. Matt Damon has handled the role expertly each time previously. He sells the action sequences well and his acting is above par. The writing and plots make sense and are intelligent. This may be the best outside of Pirates and Spiderman. Definitely a movie theater choice.
Other choices that are up for grabs include The Simpson’s Movie, another sequel Evan Almighty (following up Bruce Almighty), and the Adam Sandler movie I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry. I can’t even guess how these will go.
Oh don’t let me forget the Transformers movie. Considering the supposed focus of the film will be the humans I won’t see it. There is no point if the title characters are not the main feature of the film. Not to mention that the main audience of the movie are over a decade past 20-something, not appealing to what they remember is a bad choice. But I’m sure they will get the toy sales. If the movie is not focused on the Autobots or Decepticons, hold onto your memories and wallets and let it fade away.
But I can’t imagine where the original films are. I mean even an original version of a book that hasn’t already been done. I know that the Steven King sons have a script available. There have to be others. Hollywood has not done every idea ever made. Heck there are a number of good comic books that are just waiting to have their characters transferred to the big screen. Forbid the fact that someone actually has an idea. Or a really good one. The shock will just be too great. Until then expect to hear about Rush Hour 4, the Carrot Man movie, Friends the Movie and the adaptation of The Sword of Shanara.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Well there aren’t a lot of choices for the non-repeat films. Even horrible films such as the Fantastic Four have a sequel. Why? No idea, it’s not as if the first film was good. Perhaps the teenage boys hoping to peak at an invisible Ms. Jessica Alba is the motivation. I really can’t imagine it being much else. While I am a fan of the Silver Surfer, and his effects look quite good, I doubt that this movie will do justice to him or Galactus. Perhaps I will be wrong, but they screwed up Dr. Doom and the initial storyline so I doubt this will be better. Wait for the DVD.
Another sequel that has gone one movie too far is Rush Hour 3. I love Mr. Jackie Chan, he is quite accomplished and has made multiple good movies. Rush Hour 2 was not one of them and I fear 3 will rank beside The Tuxedo. Mr. Chris Tucker was good in the limited role in Fifth Element, and decent in the original film. But his acting abilities are stretched to breaking in the subsequent film and I believe will have snapped in this film. Don’t expect much and you may get just that. Get the bootleg DVD.
A possibly good movie sequel could be Ocean’s Thirteen. The cast is back plus someone else. Someone that you would never expect. No it’s not the baby. Ms. Ellen Barkin seems to be taking over the role done by Ms. Julia Roberts. And Mr. Al Pacino is the bad guy. That is the main reason this may be good. He picks his roles well. The rest of the cast are solid, and obviously they work together as well as a cast of stars can. But I just don’t get how they have the 13th member on the team. We will see. I’d go to the theater for this. (a trailer for this film is out now.)
Another positive choice should be the last in the Jason Bourne series, the Bourne Ultimatum. The final part of a 3 book series, of which the movies do not follow the books verbatim, this should be great. The first 2 films were well done. Mr. Matt Damon has handled the role expertly each time previously. He sells the action sequences well and his acting is above par. The writing and plots make sense and are intelligent. This may be the best outside of Pirates and Spiderman. Definitely a movie theater choice.
Other choices that are up for grabs include The Simpson’s Movie, another sequel Evan Almighty (following up Bruce Almighty), and the Adam Sandler movie I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry. I can’t even guess how these will go.
Oh don’t let me forget the Transformers movie. Considering the supposed focus of the film will be the humans I won’t see it. There is no point if the title characters are not the main feature of the film. Not to mention that the main audience of the movie are over a decade past 20-something, not appealing to what they remember is a bad choice. But I’m sure they will get the toy sales. If the movie is not focused on the Autobots or Decepticons, hold onto your memories and wallets and let it fade away.
But I can’t imagine where the original films are. I mean even an original version of a book that hasn’t already been done. I know that the Steven King sons have a script available. There have to be others. Hollywood has not done every idea ever made. Heck there are a number of good comic books that are just waiting to have their characters transferred to the big screen. Forbid the fact that someone actually has an idea. Or a really good one. The shock will just be too great. Until then expect to hear about Rush Hour 4, the Carrot Man movie, Friends the Movie and the adaptation of The Sword of Shanara.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Do you see a media bias? - 3.20.2007.1
Did anyone hear the news about the Sean Bell case? I doubt if most did. 51 shots fired at 3 men in a car leading to a death, all those men unarmed and fired upon by 5 police officers, and I only noticed 7 minutes of coverage all day yesterday between CNN and Fox News. 3 of the officers were indicted; charges included reckless endangerment of the public as shots hit buildings and other structures where other innocent people were. Anyone surprised?
I have friends all over the country, none of them heard a word about the latest events in the Sean Bell Case. I’m in New York State, barely any comment in the last 24 hours. I do watch a lot of cable news, but I’m not glued to it so there may have been somewhat more coverage. But I can say that in 4 hours I saw 2 mentions of the case for 45 seconds each. In the same time I saw 5 minutes of Anna Nicole Smith, and 6 mentions and 12 minutes on the woman shot by unknown individuals in her bed. There was no less than a half hour of information about the Boy Scout that was in the woods. Seem fair?
I recall that back when the Duke rape case started, there was hours of information. Most of that information was instantly in defense of the lacrosse team, there were questions on the defendant immediately. The fact that some of those questions came to be found as true is immaterial to the way the media reacted. Anna Nicole Smith and news relating to her death and paternity of her child has had more coverage than the death of President Ford, the death (and 2 month non-burial) of James Brown, The Sean Bell Shooting, and the Michael Richards Laugh Factory incident; even if you doubled all of them and combined the times you would still have more coverage on Anna Nicole Smith. Honestly the case is worth almost no time.
And now I see that Mr. Bill O’Reilly is going to do a segment on despicable villains and their body language. One of the featured individuals appears to be Mr. O.J. Simpson along with Kim il Jong and Saddam Hussein. The O.J. trial remains the most commented and reported item in the last decade. At every turn the media takes a moment to reflect on how similar, or impacting, or some other vague connection a current event has to that case. Mr. Simpson has not helped himself, but the nation and the media cannot get over the fact that the Justice system found him innocent of the charges placed against him just as dozens (perhaps hundreds) of other rich, famous, non-minorities have done for decades before and after him.
So in each case there seems to be a disparity. Lead by the media there is an emphasis. Black American men shot to death, in a style of overkill usually only found in action movies, minor news. Black man with contribution to the arts for decades, unburied for 2+ months, not important. African American wins a trial by using high priced lawyers and reasonable doubt, bad charges, and evidence planted by the police is unforgettable. Cute blonde gets daily coverage. An argument between celebrities, daily coverage. Offensive, demeaning comments by a celebrity against a religious or ethnic group, minor coverage. Defensive coverage of accused rapists, prior to a trial or Grand Jury, prior to any actual facts being found – daily coverage. As facts are found, huge recaps of the case, furthering the defense especially if anything leads to defending the accused. Coverage of a bank robbery by ‘cute teens’ huge coverage, the fact that the charges were lessened from federal offenses? 2 minutes.
Do you see a trend? I do. If I or my friends were to commit any of the above acts I’d be in jail and barely get noticed. I’d get no defense by the media. I’d never be referred to as ‘cute’ or innocent. My attackers would have the presumption of innocence or cause. Were I to win, I’d be hounded for life.
Is it racist? Well you tell me. When was the last time you saw a non-minority shot more than 10 times? Did you know that James Brown wasn’t buried for 2 months, and when did you learn about it? A week later, a month, just now? If I were to rant racial or ethnic slurs in a public forum or on tape, would it be forgotten in a week? If there was video of the event would it be discarded in a few hours of the event, or even make it to the news? Would there be newscasters and news consultants defending me on accusations of rape, robbery, assault, defamation or other events? If you think I would get a treatment different than some of the above cases, what makes the difference? Is that racist?
I leave you with this thought. Right now there is as much news on a hockey player that high-sticked another player as all the news on the Sean Bell shooting combined.
This is what I think, what do you think?
I have friends all over the country, none of them heard a word about the latest events in the Sean Bell Case. I’m in New York State, barely any comment in the last 24 hours. I do watch a lot of cable news, but I’m not glued to it so there may have been somewhat more coverage. But I can say that in 4 hours I saw 2 mentions of the case for 45 seconds each. In the same time I saw 5 minutes of Anna Nicole Smith, and 6 mentions and 12 minutes on the woman shot by unknown individuals in her bed. There was no less than a half hour of information about the Boy Scout that was in the woods. Seem fair?
I recall that back when the Duke rape case started, there was hours of information. Most of that information was instantly in defense of the lacrosse team, there were questions on the defendant immediately. The fact that some of those questions came to be found as true is immaterial to the way the media reacted. Anna Nicole Smith and news relating to her death and paternity of her child has had more coverage than the death of President Ford, the death (and 2 month non-burial) of James Brown, The Sean Bell Shooting, and the Michael Richards Laugh Factory incident; even if you doubled all of them and combined the times you would still have more coverage on Anna Nicole Smith. Honestly the case is worth almost no time.
And now I see that Mr. Bill O’Reilly is going to do a segment on despicable villains and their body language. One of the featured individuals appears to be Mr. O.J. Simpson along with Kim il Jong and Saddam Hussein. The O.J. trial remains the most commented and reported item in the last decade. At every turn the media takes a moment to reflect on how similar, or impacting, or some other vague connection a current event has to that case. Mr. Simpson has not helped himself, but the nation and the media cannot get over the fact that the Justice system found him innocent of the charges placed against him just as dozens (perhaps hundreds) of other rich, famous, non-minorities have done for decades before and after him.
So in each case there seems to be a disparity. Lead by the media there is an emphasis. Black American men shot to death, in a style of overkill usually only found in action movies, minor news. Black man with contribution to the arts for decades, unburied for 2+ months, not important. African American wins a trial by using high priced lawyers and reasonable doubt, bad charges, and evidence planted by the police is unforgettable. Cute blonde gets daily coverage. An argument between celebrities, daily coverage. Offensive, demeaning comments by a celebrity against a religious or ethnic group, minor coverage. Defensive coverage of accused rapists, prior to a trial or Grand Jury, prior to any actual facts being found – daily coverage. As facts are found, huge recaps of the case, furthering the defense especially if anything leads to defending the accused. Coverage of a bank robbery by ‘cute teens’ huge coverage, the fact that the charges were lessened from federal offenses? 2 minutes.
Do you see a trend? I do. If I or my friends were to commit any of the above acts I’d be in jail and barely get noticed. I’d get no defense by the media. I’d never be referred to as ‘cute’ or innocent. My attackers would have the presumption of innocence or cause. Were I to win, I’d be hounded for life.
Is it racist? Well you tell me. When was the last time you saw a non-minority shot more than 10 times? Did you know that James Brown wasn’t buried for 2 months, and when did you learn about it? A week later, a month, just now? If I were to rant racial or ethnic slurs in a public forum or on tape, would it be forgotten in a week? If there was video of the event would it be discarded in a few hours of the event, or even make it to the news? Would there be newscasters and news consultants defending me on accusations of rape, robbery, assault, defamation or other events? If you think I would get a treatment different than some of the above cases, what makes the difference? Is that racist?
I leave you with this thought. Right now there is as much news on a hockey player that high-sticked another player as all the news on the Sean Bell shooting combined.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Monday, March 19, 2007
Apple and George Orwell meet Senators Clinton and Obama - 3.19.2007.1
Have you seen the latest news on Senator Obama’s campaign? The power of the internet and besieged Youtube is shining at the moment. If you haven’t heard about it, an ad is circulating on Youtube that is essential the groundbreaking Apple Computer ad from the 1980’s, modified slightly.
This new ad replaces the old imagery with comments made by Senator Hillary Clinton, as drones blithely watch. The savior is a woman, now wearing an Obama t-shirt that breaks the screen freeing the masses while enforcer/police are racing to catch up. The original ad was a stunning re-imagining of the book 1984. If you haven’t read that book you’ve missed a great read. It’s relevance is probably stronger today than ever in the past.
It’s a sharp look at Senator Clinton, and to a degree all democrats. It highlights the vacuum between what some politicians are saying, and what they have actually done. And it brings up the soundbite methodology and poll driven commentary many in the Presidential race are using today.
Whether Senator Obama is the right choice or not isn’t exactly the question. The fact that politicians expect blind obedience is. I’m interested to see what might be the response from the Senator Clinton camp.
For those who are wondering, so far Senators Clinton and Obama are tied for the lead in my poll. The poll includes individuals from virtually every age and sex from 18 to 65, in pretty even numbers. Senator McCain is in a close second. Given is the fact that the numbers are low so far.
I’m not huge on taking polls myself, but this one is only 6 quick questions. I’m interested in seeing what more of you my readers think. I’m especially interested after this ad. While I’m sure more will vote in 2008, I’m looking forward to these early indications. It’s especially interesting as there has still been no reply from any candidate to my letters sent (which can be found at Presidential Letters) and none of the candidates have actually given firm positions they stand for. Lots of talk about they like this or hate that, comments about changing this, but not one firm plan or position on the how or details.
Perhaps that’s why they haven’t responded to my simple but important question? They are afraid to take a stance? Perhaps they all don’t want to really wake up the masses, as the Youtube ad suggest? Why not ask them why they won’t respond to me. And let me see your thoughts on the poll.
You can’t complain about what you get if you don’t ask questions.
This is what I think, what do you think?
This new ad replaces the old imagery with comments made by Senator Hillary Clinton, as drones blithely watch. The savior is a woman, now wearing an Obama t-shirt that breaks the screen freeing the masses while enforcer/police are racing to catch up. The original ad was a stunning re-imagining of the book 1984. If you haven’t read that book you’ve missed a great read. It’s relevance is probably stronger today than ever in the past.
It’s a sharp look at Senator Clinton, and to a degree all democrats. It highlights the vacuum between what some politicians are saying, and what they have actually done. And it brings up the soundbite methodology and poll driven commentary many in the Presidential race are using today.
Whether Senator Obama is the right choice or not isn’t exactly the question. The fact that politicians expect blind obedience is. I’m interested to see what might be the response from the Senator Clinton camp.
For those who are wondering, so far Senators Clinton and Obama are tied for the lead in my poll. The poll includes individuals from virtually every age and sex from 18 to 65, in pretty even numbers. Senator McCain is in a close second. Given is the fact that the numbers are low so far.
I’m not huge on taking polls myself, but this one is only 6 quick questions. I’m interested in seeing what more of you my readers think. I’m especially interested after this ad. While I’m sure more will vote in 2008, I’m looking forward to these early indications. It’s especially interesting as there has still been no reply from any candidate to my letters sent (which can be found at Presidential Letters) and none of the candidates have actually given firm positions they stand for. Lots of talk about they like this or hate that, comments about changing this, but not one firm plan or position on the how or details.
Perhaps that’s why they haven’t responded to my simple but important question? They are afraid to take a stance? Perhaps they all don’t want to really wake up the masses, as the Youtube ad suggest? Why not ask them why they won’t respond to me. And let me see your thoughts on the poll.
You can’t complain about what you get if you don’t ask questions.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Thursday, March 15, 2007
From silly to serious - 3.15.2007.1
Well where might I start? I suppose some silly news will be of most interest. Perhaps the most ridiculous would be the news of a pizza that costs $1000. Yes the price is correct, if you can believe it. Of course it was created in New York City, where else if not Los Angeles. So what do you get for a cool grand, no slices for those less spendthrift and curious? Six types of caviar and lobster of course (those allergic to shellfish will have just bear with the thought that they cannot try this dish).
Personally I dislike red caviar, and Beluga caviar is too expensive for a decent amount. Plus I can’t imagine having caviar that’s been baked. I like the way the Russians have it, on fresh bread with a healthy portion of homemade butter and a drink of vodka to cut the salt. That is fantastic. But as a pizza, I think not. To me there are better ways to waste money. It’s merely a way to try to impress a materialist person, like the $1000 ice cream you can get close to the pizza shop. Of course with the ice cream you get to actually eat the gold topping (most of the cost no doubt) which is perhaps a worse way to flush money down the drain.
Since I’m on the topic I’ll quickly mention that Prince Frederic von Anhalt (reportedly a prince by purchase as he bought his nobility) is now suing Fox News and Mr. Bill O’Reilly. While the extreme left may be rejoicing, the fact is the suit is without merit. I watched the program in which the prince stated live on air that he would take a lie detector test on his claim to the child of Ms. Anna Nicole Smith. A week later Mr. O’Reilly commented on the non-appearance of the prince for the test. To my knowledge there was no comment for a retraction or explanation, which was why Mr. O’Reilly claimed he was just after the publicity. The suit seems to be a furtherance of this claim.
The true shame is that all these seemingly publicity seekers are providing a horrible legacy for Ms. Smith’s daughter to learn about and grow up with. It’s also sad that some seek out attention in such desperate and shameful methods. Life can be far more than this. Fame for the sake of fame is just pitiful I think.
On the flip side of this are the people to which fame attaches itself. Like Mr. Chris Gardner. You may recall the name from the recent Mr. Will Smith leading film The Pursuit of Happyness, which is based on his real life struggle to go from homelessness to a millionaire while raising his young son alone. When fame came to Mr. Gardner, you might ask ‘what did he do?’ He continued his efforts to help the homeless in the nation; he continued to speak with those that are homeless. Fame was not a goal of his, national and international attention were only by-products of the actions he had made for decades. That is impressive. That is worth-while. That deserves the attention of the media.
Yet how much time has been wasted on individuals like the above mentioned prince, the trail for ownership of Ms. Smith’s body, the chaos of supposed suitors and the question of the cause of death. Its one thing to comment on the ludicrous in passing, but media today focuses on it like fly to, well you know. I have observed how little time has been spent discussing individuals like Mr. Gardner, or donations made on behalf of organizations helping people in need, both in this nation and the world, like Mr. John Travolta and Mr. George Clooney.
I started off with the silly, but in reflection there is too much of that these days. Television has reached new heights of mind-numbing programming, the media far to biased in its presentation of fact, and entertainment remains rooted in a time in the world long since past. I like a silly distraction from time to time too, but when a former President of the United States receives less air-time than a cute blonde I think things have gone too far. When most people cannot remember the program they are watching when a commercial comes on, when 2% of the characters reflect the world outside my window, I have to believe I’ve been distracted too much.
Well at least I have the blogs and my readers for more intellectual pursuits.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Personally I dislike red caviar, and Beluga caviar is too expensive for a decent amount. Plus I can’t imagine having caviar that’s been baked. I like the way the Russians have it, on fresh bread with a healthy portion of homemade butter and a drink of vodka to cut the salt. That is fantastic. But as a pizza, I think not. To me there are better ways to waste money. It’s merely a way to try to impress a materialist person, like the $1000 ice cream you can get close to the pizza shop. Of course with the ice cream you get to actually eat the gold topping (most of the cost no doubt) which is perhaps a worse way to flush money down the drain.
Since I’m on the topic I’ll quickly mention that Prince Frederic von Anhalt (reportedly a prince by purchase as he bought his nobility) is now suing Fox News and Mr. Bill O’Reilly. While the extreme left may be rejoicing, the fact is the suit is without merit. I watched the program in which the prince stated live on air that he would take a lie detector test on his claim to the child of Ms. Anna Nicole Smith. A week later Mr. O’Reilly commented on the non-appearance of the prince for the test. To my knowledge there was no comment for a retraction or explanation, which was why Mr. O’Reilly claimed he was just after the publicity. The suit seems to be a furtherance of this claim.
The true shame is that all these seemingly publicity seekers are providing a horrible legacy for Ms. Smith’s daughter to learn about and grow up with. It’s also sad that some seek out attention in such desperate and shameful methods. Life can be far more than this. Fame for the sake of fame is just pitiful I think.
On the flip side of this are the people to which fame attaches itself. Like Mr. Chris Gardner. You may recall the name from the recent Mr. Will Smith leading film The Pursuit of Happyness, which is based on his real life struggle to go from homelessness to a millionaire while raising his young son alone. When fame came to Mr. Gardner, you might ask ‘what did he do?’ He continued his efforts to help the homeless in the nation; he continued to speak with those that are homeless. Fame was not a goal of his, national and international attention were only by-products of the actions he had made for decades. That is impressive. That is worth-while. That deserves the attention of the media.
Yet how much time has been wasted on individuals like the above mentioned prince, the trail for ownership of Ms. Smith’s body, the chaos of supposed suitors and the question of the cause of death. Its one thing to comment on the ludicrous in passing, but media today focuses on it like fly to, well you know. I have observed how little time has been spent discussing individuals like Mr. Gardner, or donations made on behalf of organizations helping people in need, both in this nation and the world, like Mr. John Travolta and Mr. George Clooney.
I started off with the silly, but in reflection there is too much of that these days. Television has reached new heights of mind-numbing programming, the media far to biased in its presentation of fact, and entertainment remains rooted in a time in the world long since past. I like a silly distraction from time to time too, but when a former President of the United States receives less air-time than a cute blonde I think things have gone too far. When most people cannot remember the program they are watching when a commercial comes on, when 2% of the characters reflect the world outside my window, I have to believe I’ve been distracted too much.
Well at least I have the blogs and my readers for more intellectual pursuits.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
What you don't see on television - 3.14.2007.3
I have spoken in dozens of posts about the ability of many actors, and entertainers of all races and nationalities. There are those that are good, avereage and the very few that excel. That is not dependant on race, or religion, or any limiting factor beyond the ability they honed and were born with. To say that 70% of the American population is incapable of recognizing this fact, and unwilling, is at once both ignorant and racist. Ms. Andreeva could have stated in her article all the points I have, but did not. Ms. Andreeva could have posed the questions I have, and chose not to. Perhaps there was more and it was edited out. If so I am sorry that better content was not allowed. Perhaps this was the only way that the article could have been published, as a tone more like my own is too harsh for the seemingly fragile nature of some executives in dealing with reality. If so I would have chosen to not have it published. Maybe this is why the growth of my blogs (while exceptional) is less than some of my peers. If that is the case then I am glad for the niche I am building. But I will not sit back and read what sounds like an apology for trying to promote African American, Latino/Hispanic and other minorities on broadcast television.
Nor will I quietly accept the latest trend of including a mandatory single Black American, Latino/Hispanic, and at least one woman (often combining two of these in one person) in a supportive or ensemble role, as some fulfillment of an implied quota proving that television has broken down the unspeakable iron grip on a vision of America that existed at least half a century ago. As I have stated in previous posts, by my calculations there are about 2% of all characters in a co-lead or support role that are a minority in broadcast television. That is abysmal when the reality walking out the door is that of 27% or 1 in 4.
Perhaps in an America that segregated it’s schools, and denied the rights of millions of its citizens such a view was acceptable. Thankfully that time has long passed. In a world where Secretaries of State, Heads of the Joint Chiefs, Congressmen and women, and potentially the President of the United States are African American, Latino/Hispanic and every minority found in America, to say that 70% of the popularion is incapable of accepting a leading actor not exactly the same color as themselves is both unacceptable and in my eyes a blatant lie.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Nor will I quietly accept the latest trend of including a mandatory single Black American, Latino/Hispanic, and at least one woman (often combining two of these in one person) in a supportive or ensemble role, as some fulfillment of an implied quota proving that television has broken down the unspeakable iron grip on a vision of America that existed at least half a century ago. As I have stated in previous posts, by my calculations there are about 2% of all characters in a co-lead or support role that are a minority in broadcast television. That is abysmal when the reality walking out the door is that of 27% or 1 in 4.
Perhaps in an America that segregated it’s schools, and denied the rights of millions of its citizens such a view was acceptable. Thankfully that time has long passed. In a world where Secretaries of State, Heads of the Joint Chiefs, Congressmen and women, and potentially the President of the United States are African American, Latino/Hispanic and every minority found in America, to say that 70% of the popularion is incapable of accepting a leading actor not exactly the same color as themselves is both unacceptable and in my eyes a blatant lie.
This is what I think, what do you think?
The surprise about broadcast television - 3.14.2007.2
The key is the quality of the program. For that matter it is the quality of the medium, whether movies or plays or television, that determines viewability. The FX Network program Thief may not have lead the ratings, but I bet it’s ratings would be on par with or better than half the broadcast television shows on today. Yet broadcast television won’t touch such a show. Even with the fact that the top shows of today get fewer viewers that the middle of the road shows of the 70’s (due to DVD’s, VOD, cable and so forth) and a dirth of programs highlighting this untapped market, executives are holding on to what is a staple of the ‘I wish it was 1950 again’ mentality.
It was that mentality that prevented any African American actor or actress from getting recognition at the Oscar Awards for decades. [Directors as well, notably Mr. Spike Lee for Malcolm X] Thankfully part of that hurdle has been broken, partially, though the slap in the face to Dreamgirls (first movie in 79 years to have the most award nominations and not get nominated for Best picture) and the subsequent snub of Mr. Eddie Murphy highlight the fact that the 98% majority of Oscar voters have not completely seen the light.
It was mentioned in the Yahoo article that Roots is still the most watched mini-series ever. The reasoning given is that it was a special event and thus free of the guiding forces that pertain to broadcast television. Right, how about another heaping spoonful of that stuff. More likely is the fact that Roots was a well acted, well-funded, intelligently written program, based in fact, that had appealled to every African American in the nation as well as non-minorities. Perhaps if there were other well written, produced, and directed programming the same would happen. Instead we see money thrown at sitcoms [mostly ill-conceived, poorly acted, yet virtually the only option, akin to drinking sand because there is no water in my opinion] and starved from dramas where the lead is non-White.
I see it as a barrier that no one likes to talk about. It’s like reparations, or an apology for slavery. Mention it and red flags pop up everywhere and no one wants to listen. The fact that a logical and sound argument for change can be made has no bearing on the reaction. Because the entire reasoning made implies that if non-minorities cannot connect with a lead that is not EXACTLY like them, Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. Samuel Jackson, Mr. Wesley Snipes, Mr. Will Smith and others could not have leading roles in movies and command $20 million per film. According to the logic presented, maybe they could have one film, out of the group of them, but not a couple of dozen that exists in the real world.
I am angered by the supposition that African Americans can only excel at comedies and as non-lead characters. Black Americans can present more depth than a character that is being, “…laughed with them and at them,” as Mr. Brooks stated. Such a shallow view is undeserved, and if any apology need be made it should be to the actors and the nation for inferring such impotence.
Finished in Part 3...
It was that mentality that prevented any African American actor or actress from getting recognition at the Oscar Awards for decades. [Directors as well, notably Mr. Spike Lee for Malcolm X] Thankfully part of that hurdle has been broken, partially, though the slap in the face to Dreamgirls (first movie in 79 years to have the most award nominations and not get nominated for Best picture) and the subsequent snub of Mr. Eddie Murphy highlight the fact that the 98% majority of Oscar voters have not completely seen the light.
It was mentioned in the Yahoo article that Roots is still the most watched mini-series ever. The reasoning given is that it was a special event and thus free of the guiding forces that pertain to broadcast television. Right, how about another heaping spoonful of that stuff. More likely is the fact that Roots was a well acted, well-funded, intelligently written program, based in fact, that had appealled to every African American in the nation as well as non-minorities. Perhaps if there were other well written, produced, and directed programming the same would happen. Instead we see money thrown at sitcoms [mostly ill-conceived, poorly acted, yet virtually the only option, akin to drinking sand because there is no water in my opinion] and starved from dramas where the lead is non-White.
I see it as a barrier that no one likes to talk about. It’s like reparations, or an apology for slavery. Mention it and red flags pop up everywhere and no one wants to listen. The fact that a logical and sound argument for change can be made has no bearing on the reaction. Because the entire reasoning made implies that if non-minorities cannot connect with a lead that is not EXACTLY like them, Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. Samuel Jackson, Mr. Wesley Snipes, Mr. Will Smith and others could not have leading roles in movies and command $20 million per film. According to the logic presented, maybe they could have one film, out of the group of them, but not a couple of dozen that exists in the real world.
I am angered by the supposition that African Americans can only excel at comedies and as non-lead characters. Black Americans can present more depth than a character that is being, “…laughed with them and at them,” as Mr. Brooks stated. Such a shallow view is undeserved, and if any apology need be made it should be to the actors and the nation for inferring such impotence.
Finished in Part 3...
Surprise, where are the minority leads on tv - 3.14.2007.1
I am shocked and amazed. I would even go so far as stupefied. You might wonder why, if not for a friend making me aware of some news I would as well. In this case though I am referring to my reaction to the article found on Yahoo TV, Black leads still absent from network dramas by Nellie Andreeva. It seems that Black Americans are underrepresented in television. With no disrespect to Ms. Andreeva, no kidding.
Finally there is some media coverage on a subject I have directly discussed in no less than 3 posts, the earliest dating back to December 2005. In my post Minorities, Television and 27 percent, I highlight the fact that broadcast television, television commercials and movies ignore the relevance and existance of non-whites. A particularly relevant section from that post goes on to say, “The facts taken in total make a profound statement, that is seen and felt not only in the US but also throughout the world. Broadcasters appear, in my opinion, to state that any non-white is relatively unimportant. That no attempt at providing quality programming targeted to these groups is required or of practical use. Perhaps it could be summarized as 'the less seen the better'? That offends me.”
Yet I feel that Ms. Andreeva seems to make an excuse for this fact. That it’s ok that no dramatic television program starring an African American, or Latino/Hispanic, or Asian, has ever fared well. Her reasoning is that the majority of viewers are White and thus do not connect to leads unlike them. It feels like Ms. Andreeva is also relegating Black American leads to only roles that are restricted to a type, such military officers because, “Most dramas are in some way relatable to your life, whether it is about families or cops, something you see every day.” [This quote is in the above mentioned article but made by Mr. Tim Brooks.]
I disagree with such a thought excusing the lack of leading African American, Latino/Hispanic, Asian and other minority actors. The reality that television hopes to evade is that better than 1 in 4 Americans is a person of color. Millions of Americans work with, for, and/or under the supervision of people of color every day. People of color have held positions of power and prominence for some time now, and I do not like the implication that those individuals have not, or do not, exist.
I dispute the theme proposed that a White audience cannot accept a lead character that is African American, or a person of color. In my post German police and television programing - 10.05.2006.2, I stated, “Take your choice of programs made by HBO, Showtime, FX, Spike or others. I’m speaking of The Shield, Thief, Blade the series, Eureka, and many others. In each program there is a diversity of race, sexuality and flaws that are just caricatured in broadcast show. There are actually characters that you can identify with as a person of color. And in several of these shows we see leads like Mr. Andre Braugher that show that African Americans, and other minorities, are easily capable of being leads and cores of their respective shows. There is more depth in their performances than the usual limitation to comedy shows and minor secondary characters broadcast television has tried to shove down our collective throats for decades.”
Continued in part 2...
Finally there is some media coverage on a subject I have directly discussed in no less than 3 posts, the earliest dating back to December 2005. In my post Minorities, Television and 27 percent, I highlight the fact that broadcast television, television commercials and movies ignore the relevance and existance of non-whites. A particularly relevant section from that post goes on to say, “The facts taken in total make a profound statement, that is seen and felt not only in the US but also throughout the world. Broadcasters appear, in my opinion, to state that any non-white is relatively unimportant. That no attempt at providing quality programming targeted to these groups is required or of practical use. Perhaps it could be summarized as 'the less seen the better'? That offends me.”
Yet I feel that Ms. Andreeva seems to make an excuse for this fact. That it’s ok that no dramatic television program starring an African American, or Latino/Hispanic, or Asian, has ever fared well. Her reasoning is that the majority of viewers are White and thus do not connect to leads unlike them. It feels like Ms. Andreeva is also relegating Black American leads to only roles that are restricted to a type, such military officers because, “Most dramas are in some way relatable to your life, whether it is about families or cops, something you see every day.” [This quote is in the above mentioned article but made by Mr. Tim Brooks.]
I disagree with such a thought excusing the lack of leading African American, Latino/Hispanic, Asian and other minority actors. The reality that television hopes to evade is that better than 1 in 4 Americans is a person of color. Millions of Americans work with, for, and/or under the supervision of people of color every day. People of color have held positions of power and prominence for some time now, and I do not like the implication that those individuals have not, or do not, exist.
I dispute the theme proposed that a White audience cannot accept a lead character that is African American, or a person of color. In my post German police and television programing - 10.05.2006.2, I stated, “Take your choice of programs made by HBO, Showtime, FX, Spike or others. I’m speaking of The Shield, Thief, Blade the series, Eureka, and many others. In each program there is a diversity of race, sexuality and flaws that are just caricatured in broadcast show. There are actually characters that you can identify with as a person of color. And in several of these shows we see leads like Mr. Andre Braugher that show that African Americans, and other minorities, are easily capable of being leads and cores of their respective shows. There is more depth in their performances than the usual limitation to comedy shows and minor secondary characters broadcast television has tried to shove down our collective throats for decades.”
Continued in part 2...
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Letter from the President of M V Consulting, Inc.
I’m happy to say that M V Consulting, Inc. has been growing at a substantial pace. The blogs, Black Entertainment USA and VASS, have been gaining new visitors every month and repeat visitors are checking back to the site more often than ever. Visits to the online store at cafepress/nova68 have gone up exponentially. Even the new corporate website has already gained traction in a few search engines after only being live for a week.
I thank you, my visitors for this. It is your patronage and support that has made this success happen.
I realize that with this success and growth there is a price though. That price is my re-doubled efforts to provide posts and content on a daily basis, that is of interest to you. It’s no small task, and I admit that some days I just can’t find items worth writing about or don’t have the time to do so. But I have a solution to this difficulty.
I have heard from several individuals in the past that had an interest in providing posts and content for the various blog sites. I mention to those individuals and others that may be interested that I will be accepting contributions for the blogs.
So if you want to submit a post for consideration please include your name, state, the full post (spell checked), all pertinent links, and a valid contact address. If your submission is accepted, you will be contacted to make you aware.
Please understand that all posts submitted and accepted by M V Consulting, Inc. will be our limited property. This means that any accepted piece can and may be reproduced in full or in part at the discretion of and for the benefit of M V Consulting, Inc. Full writing credit for any accepted content will be given to the contributing author, in a byline style. Sadly at this time, no fee will be paid for any submission that is accepted.
I look forward to your responses and interest.
Sincerely
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and VASS
718-344-6921
support@vassconsult.com
I thank you, my visitors for this. It is your patronage and support that has made this success happen.
I realize that with this success and growth there is a price though. That price is my re-doubled efforts to provide posts and content on a daily basis, that is of interest to you. It’s no small task, and I admit that some days I just can’t find items worth writing about or don’t have the time to do so. But I have a solution to this difficulty.
I have heard from several individuals in the past that had an interest in providing posts and content for the various blog sites. I mention to those individuals and others that may be interested that I will be accepting contributions for the blogs.
So if you want to submit a post for consideration please include your name, state, the full post (spell checked), all pertinent links, and a valid contact address. If your submission is accepted, you will be contacted to make you aware.
Please understand that all posts submitted and accepted by M V Consulting, Inc. will be our limited property. This means that any accepted piece can and may be reproduced in full or in part at the discretion of and for the benefit of M V Consulting, Inc. Full writing credit for any accepted content will be given to the contributing author, in a byline style. Sadly at this time, no fee will be paid for any submission that is accepted.
I look forward to your responses and interest.
Sincerely
Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA and VASS
718-344-6921
support@vassconsult.com
Hall of Fame, Obi Wan, cavemen and Star Trek - 3.13.2007.1
So did you hear? Finally there has been some recognition for the original forms of Rap music. The musical genre has been rightly acknowledged with the induction of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five to the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. The founding groups and individuals that were considered mere fads by the media and industry are now finally getting the respect due for creating a genre that, though changed dramatically, now commands significant attention in record sales, movie soundtracks, music television air-time and more. Long past a mere fad, the founders can now look to be joined by other influential groups in the near term.
Without a question the Beastie Boys will get recognized, and they deserve to though I think it will be before other more deserving artists. LL Cool J must be inducted, as must Run-DMC, and Eric B and Rakim. I’m sure slightly down the road will be Queen Latifah and Salt&Peppa. Dougie Fresh would be a pleasant addition as well. Whether or not this will happen, and in what order will come out shortly as the 25 year pre-condition is met by more and more of the ‘fad’ stars. And when the time comes I dare the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame to deny Public Enemy. [Though I’m glad the time for considering the minor abilities of artists like 50 cent is far off.]
In other news there is talk of the cavemen from the popular Giecko ads, will be getting their own television show. This could be quite interesting, and I hope the respect is given to the men starring in the ads now by giving them a shot at fame on the show. It would be irresponsible if they aren’t in the show. More on that as details emerge.
In other popular news, fans of Star Trek have something to look forward to. The journey is not over, as a new movie is planned for the end of 2008. This new film will be going back into the past of the timeline, though thankfully will not be delving into the ruinous Enterprise arena. No, the studios have learned and realized the real draws of the series, and will be featuring a story based on Kirk and Spock. This will be about their first meeting and mission outside of Starfleet Academy.
This is fertile ground and a lot can be done with the story. Hopefully the writers have actually watched the early television show, even better if they are fans. But be primed against a good movie with the fact that ‘revisioning’ seems to be the mantra of films based on previous movies and television programs these days. The most critical fact will be the choice of who will play Kirk and Spock. Considering we know what they look like, getting someone that looks like younger versions of them will be difficult. But as long as the choices are close I can live with that obvious difficulty. Given that I can’t imagine who could pull it off. I’m not the only fan out there, who do you think should be these larger than Starfleet characters? Who deserves to be the greatest Starfleet captain and his first mate?
For fans of the biggest sci-fi film and series ever, another piece of the Force has just gone into someone else’s hands. Yes the cloak of old Obi Wan Kenobi, as worn by esteemed actor Sir Alec Guiness, was sold recently for $104,000. Not a small price tag, though I can see paying for that item. Of course my wish list includes Darth Vader’s helmet and lightsaber. Not likely I could afford them but still worth wanting.
For the non sci fi fans the same auction also sold a Bond girl catsuit, Mr. Mel Gibson’s kilt from Braveheart and Mr. Terry Jones’ metal helm from Monty Python and the Holy Grail. That last piece went for 19 thousand. Some wish lists are real expensive.
More soccer and movie thoughts soon to come.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Without a question the Beastie Boys will get recognized, and they deserve to though I think it will be before other more deserving artists. LL Cool J must be inducted, as must Run-DMC, and Eric B and Rakim. I’m sure slightly down the road will be Queen Latifah and Salt&Peppa. Dougie Fresh would be a pleasant addition as well. Whether or not this will happen, and in what order will come out shortly as the 25 year pre-condition is met by more and more of the ‘fad’ stars. And when the time comes I dare the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame to deny Public Enemy. [Though I’m glad the time for considering the minor abilities of artists like 50 cent is far off.]
In other news there is talk of the cavemen from the popular Giecko ads, will be getting their own television show. This could be quite interesting, and I hope the respect is given to the men starring in the ads now by giving them a shot at fame on the show. It would be irresponsible if they aren’t in the show. More on that as details emerge.
In other popular news, fans of Star Trek have something to look forward to. The journey is not over, as a new movie is planned for the end of 2008. This new film will be going back into the past of the timeline, though thankfully will not be delving into the ruinous Enterprise arena. No, the studios have learned and realized the real draws of the series, and will be featuring a story based on Kirk and Spock. This will be about their first meeting and mission outside of Starfleet Academy.
This is fertile ground and a lot can be done with the story. Hopefully the writers have actually watched the early television show, even better if they are fans. But be primed against a good movie with the fact that ‘revisioning’ seems to be the mantra of films based on previous movies and television programs these days. The most critical fact will be the choice of who will play Kirk and Spock. Considering we know what they look like, getting someone that looks like younger versions of them will be difficult. But as long as the choices are close I can live with that obvious difficulty. Given that I can’t imagine who could pull it off. I’m not the only fan out there, who do you think should be these larger than Starfleet characters? Who deserves to be the greatest Starfleet captain and his first mate?
For fans of the biggest sci-fi film and series ever, another piece of the Force has just gone into someone else’s hands. Yes the cloak of old Obi Wan Kenobi, as worn by esteemed actor Sir Alec Guiness, was sold recently for $104,000. Not a small price tag, though I can see paying for that item. Of course my wish list includes Darth Vader’s helmet and lightsaber. Not likely I could afford them but still worth wanting.
For the non sci fi fans the same auction also sold a Bond girl catsuit, Mr. Mel Gibson’s kilt from Braveheart and Mr. Terry Jones’ metal helm from Monty Python and the Holy Grail. That last piece went for 19 thousand. Some wish lists are real expensive.
More soccer and movie thoughts soon to come.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Friday, March 09, 2007
Regin Over Me, Pride, Shooter - 3.9.2007.1
Time to talk a bit about movies. I’ve spoken about the upcoming remake 300 (300 Spartans at Thermoplye - 10.07.2006.1) which I hope will be good. Knowing that the backgrounds and much of the movie has been done via CGI effects is not the most motivating thought to me. But that does not preclude the film from being done well. We will see.
Going a bit forward there are a few that seem like interesting films. So far the previews look quite good for Reign Over Me, Pride, and Shooter. Going in order Reign Over Me seems the most powerful. The cast stars Mr. Don Cheadle, who I think is overlooked far too much. His performance in Hotel Rawanda was acclaimed though the film did not get the recognition it deserved. More likely most recall his supporting roles in movies such as Hamburger Hill, Ocean’s Eleven, Ocean’s Twelve, Devil in a Blue Dress, Rosewood, Operation Swordfish and Out of Sight. You will also see him in Ocean’s Thirteen. I feel he is a rising star, and I have no doubt that his name will gain more attention in the near future. So that is a big positive for the film. The other leading star of the film is Mr. Adam Sandler in another dramatic performance. Mr. Sandler has made the transition to dramatic roles quite well and has had several solid performances in this genre.
Given the power of these two men, and Mrs. Jada Pinkett-Smith who is no mere window dressing, the stage is set. The storyline is one that many can relate to, this is especially true for those of us from NYC. It is the story of 2 old friends, one of which lost his family in a plane crash. As they reconnect they get a chance to see life from a different perspective and everything changes from there. This doesn’t appear to be a sappy movie, just a real story about the trial of life and what it takes and gives us each. Expect to hear a lot more about it.
The movie Pride stars another favorite of mine, Mr. Terence Howard. Mr. Bernie Mac is also in the film taking a more serious role than his previous films. This is another film in the growing trend of biopics, that touch on the past achievements made by various African Americans that have previously been given little recognition. I always enjoy a well-done story of an underdog surpassing expectations, as do most people. I also find it important to see films that remind us all that blatant racism is hardly a thing of the far past, and that the human spirit can overcome any obstacle.
There is no question that Mr. Howard is capable enough to perform the lead in this type of film, and that alone is enough for me. The fact that this is based on a true story, and it depicts the emergence of youths thought beyond hope to a point of self-awareness and self-respect that they did not think possible. This is a positive image that needs to be seen more. Counter to the media fueled images of Black Americans as criminals and drug dealers (I’m speaking of the music videos and cheaply made, poorly scripted, rap or hip hop starred ‘ghetto’ films) it’s important to see the true images of African Americans as regular people capable of surmounting obstacles. Perhaps this film will ring similar to Mr. Denzel Washington’s Remember The Titans, and in many ways that’s a good thing. We shall see.
As to the film Shooter, well it’s not a serious drama. At least the theatrical and television film clips don’t present it as such. It’s an action film starring Mr. Mark Wahlberg, with a supporting role by Mr. Danny Glover. Mr. Wahlberg has become a reliable and consistent action-based actor, his roles in The Italian Job and The Big Hit been obvious examples of his success. He’s picked his roles quite well, and had solid performances in each role, even in the badly done remake Planet of the Apes. While the theme of this movie has been done multiple times, recently by Mr. Wesley Snipes and Mr. Tommy Lee Jones in U.S. Marshals and Mr. Keenen Ivory Wayans in Most Wanted, it’s a good plotline. The trailer clips seem to show a film that is balanced with enough explosions and shoot-outs to entertain action fans, but enough of a plot to let it make sense.
Well those are my thoughts on the upcoming movies to hit theaters soon. I’m sure you will let me know how close to the mark I am.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Going a bit forward there are a few that seem like interesting films. So far the previews look quite good for Reign Over Me, Pride, and Shooter. Going in order Reign Over Me seems the most powerful. The cast stars Mr. Don Cheadle, who I think is overlooked far too much. His performance in Hotel Rawanda was acclaimed though the film did not get the recognition it deserved. More likely most recall his supporting roles in movies such as Hamburger Hill, Ocean’s Eleven, Ocean’s Twelve, Devil in a Blue Dress, Rosewood, Operation Swordfish and Out of Sight. You will also see him in Ocean’s Thirteen. I feel he is a rising star, and I have no doubt that his name will gain more attention in the near future. So that is a big positive for the film. The other leading star of the film is Mr. Adam Sandler in another dramatic performance. Mr. Sandler has made the transition to dramatic roles quite well and has had several solid performances in this genre.
Given the power of these two men, and Mrs. Jada Pinkett-Smith who is no mere window dressing, the stage is set. The storyline is one that many can relate to, this is especially true for those of us from NYC. It is the story of 2 old friends, one of which lost his family in a plane crash. As they reconnect they get a chance to see life from a different perspective and everything changes from there. This doesn’t appear to be a sappy movie, just a real story about the trial of life and what it takes and gives us each. Expect to hear a lot more about it.
The movie Pride stars another favorite of mine, Mr. Terence Howard. Mr. Bernie Mac is also in the film taking a more serious role than his previous films. This is another film in the growing trend of biopics, that touch on the past achievements made by various African Americans that have previously been given little recognition. I always enjoy a well-done story of an underdog surpassing expectations, as do most people. I also find it important to see films that remind us all that blatant racism is hardly a thing of the far past, and that the human spirit can overcome any obstacle.
There is no question that Mr. Howard is capable enough to perform the lead in this type of film, and that alone is enough for me. The fact that this is based on a true story, and it depicts the emergence of youths thought beyond hope to a point of self-awareness and self-respect that they did not think possible. This is a positive image that needs to be seen more. Counter to the media fueled images of Black Americans as criminals and drug dealers (I’m speaking of the music videos and cheaply made, poorly scripted, rap or hip hop starred ‘ghetto’ films) it’s important to see the true images of African Americans as regular people capable of surmounting obstacles. Perhaps this film will ring similar to Mr. Denzel Washington’s Remember The Titans, and in many ways that’s a good thing. We shall see.
As to the film Shooter, well it’s not a serious drama. At least the theatrical and television film clips don’t present it as such. It’s an action film starring Mr. Mark Wahlberg, with a supporting role by Mr. Danny Glover. Mr. Wahlberg has become a reliable and consistent action-based actor, his roles in The Italian Job and The Big Hit been obvious examples of his success. He’s picked his roles quite well, and had solid performances in each role, even in the badly done remake Planet of the Apes. While the theme of this movie has been done multiple times, recently by Mr. Wesley Snipes and Mr. Tommy Lee Jones in U.S. Marshals and Mr. Keenen Ivory Wayans in Most Wanted, it’s a good plotline. The trailer clips seem to show a film that is balanced with enough explosions and shoot-outs to entertain action fans, but enough of a plot to let it make sense.
Well those are my thoughts on the upcoming movies to hit theaters soon. I’m sure you will let me know how close to the mark I am.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Thursday, March 08, 2007
NYC almost does something important - 3.8.2007.1
Another moment to take a stand and shine has come and passed, with little fanfare. With laws against booing [in the state of Washington] keeping the masses occupied New York City dabbled with an issue that affects roughly 15% of the nation. Take a moment and think if you have any idea what that might have been.
What came to your mind? Something on immigration? Maybe a thought on politics? Well you would be completely off the mark. I’m speaking about the use of the N-word. It’s an issue that deeply affects me, and millions of others of many races. As I’ve stated before that word is the single most offensive word in the English language, untranslatable and unchanged in the centuries of it’s use.
But the City Council of NYC had the chance to make a statement. They considered making a ban of the N-word, setting the stage for reforms across the country and providing an excuse for entertainers and celebrities (not to mention teachers and parents) a forum to discuss or investigate why the term is so wide-spread in its use today. Knowledge is the key to everything in life and this was a chance to educate the ignorance held by so many today.
I know, there are those readers and others out in the world that think I’m over reacting. The word is not a bad thing anymore. Its power has been taken back, changed and made something else now. The last 2 decades have given rise to new meanings and that is what has gone around the world. I say to that, “Take the wool off your eyes.” If any comment is more foolish than this I cannot imagine it, perhaps with the exception of the Native American Indians saying, ‘Hey, who are those guys? Maybe they need help and will be our friends?’ or perhaps, “What’s that big brown thing rushing towards me? I think I will call it ground. Maybe it will be my friend.” [Yes it’s not an exact quote but Mr. Douglas Adams would forgive me I think]
Obviously the City Council of NYC agrees with the view held by me, as does Mr. Michael Richards [doesn’t that prove the point right there?]. Their ban on this word was passed, and you may wonder why less time was spent reporting this than Ms. Rosie O’Donnell’s depression. Because it was a bunch of hot air. The usefulness of the ban rates on par with releasing known illegal immigrant child molesters on bail and expecting them to show up to court (as happened in Vermont not long ago).
The ban has no power. No fines, tickets, jail time, nothing. It’s useless. And the City Council of New York City wants to go to the Recording Academy to get the Grammy’s to ban nominating artists that use this word an the basis of the power contained in this fluff. Can you guess what the response will be?
Forgetting the naïveté of the youth of today, there is no question of the power of the word and its meaning. Considering that why make a pointless ban that serves no purpose than to give a small group of local politicians a talking point for their re-elections? As you can tell this situation has annoyed me.
This is what I think, what do you think?
What came to your mind? Something on immigration? Maybe a thought on politics? Well you would be completely off the mark. I’m speaking about the use of the N-word. It’s an issue that deeply affects me, and millions of others of many races. As I’ve stated before that word is the single most offensive word in the English language, untranslatable and unchanged in the centuries of it’s use.
But the City Council of NYC had the chance to make a statement. They considered making a ban of the N-word, setting the stage for reforms across the country and providing an excuse for entertainers and celebrities (not to mention teachers and parents) a forum to discuss or investigate why the term is so wide-spread in its use today. Knowledge is the key to everything in life and this was a chance to educate the ignorance held by so many today.
I know, there are those readers and others out in the world that think I’m over reacting. The word is not a bad thing anymore. Its power has been taken back, changed and made something else now. The last 2 decades have given rise to new meanings and that is what has gone around the world. I say to that, “Take the wool off your eyes.” If any comment is more foolish than this I cannot imagine it, perhaps with the exception of the Native American Indians saying, ‘Hey, who are those guys? Maybe they need help and will be our friends?’ or perhaps, “What’s that big brown thing rushing towards me? I think I will call it ground. Maybe it will be my friend.” [Yes it’s not an exact quote but Mr. Douglas Adams would forgive me I think]
Obviously the City Council of NYC agrees with the view held by me, as does Mr. Michael Richards [doesn’t that prove the point right there?]. Their ban on this word was passed, and you may wonder why less time was spent reporting this than Ms. Rosie O’Donnell’s depression. Because it was a bunch of hot air. The usefulness of the ban rates on par with releasing known illegal immigrant child molesters on bail and expecting them to show up to court (as happened in Vermont not long ago).
The ban has no power. No fines, tickets, jail time, nothing. It’s useless. And the City Council of New York City wants to go to the Recording Academy to get the Grammy’s to ban nominating artists that use this word an the basis of the power contained in this fluff. Can you guess what the response will be?
Forgetting the naïveté of the youth of today, there is no question of the power of the word and its meaning. Considering that why make a pointless ban that serves no purpose than to give a small group of local politicians a talking point for their re-elections? As you can tell this situation has annoyed me.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
John Travolta donation, Big Tuna vacation, and ice cream with a kick - 3.7.2007.3
In other news, I suggest that the ladies out there becareful when dining out. If you decide to have an after dinner dessert you may wind up with more than you were barganing for. I’m not talking about extra pounds or changing your figure. I’m talking about ice cream and other fatty dairy foods getting you pregnant. Not on their own of course.
It seems a study that was out recently states that if you have one of these dishes a day then the odds are 27% greater to become pregnant. Now this could be a factor for a a few couples out there. And you thought the worst you had to worry about was a few extra pounds. Still it makes that little snack a bit risque. One thing they didn’t mention in the study is if having whipped cream and/or chocolate syrup with the ice cream makes the odds go up even more (or even the odds without the ice cream). Just thought you might want to know.
For those lamenting the time until football (American) returns in the summer, there is a bit of news as well. The Big Tuna, Mr. Bill Parcells, is going to miss the 2007 season. Like 2002 Mr. Parcells will be going back to ESPN to be on the Monday Night Countdown. Mr. Parcells is always interesting to listen to and ESPN will no doubt have better rating with him. Still there is the thought that some team in the next season will sorely miss the overall strategy and ability he brings to any team. I suggest that once the season starts everyone pays attention to the teams doing poorly. I believe that this recent ‘retirement’ is temporary, perhaps being a way to drive up the bidding wars and to better evaluate which team will best match his criteria as a head coach. 19 years, 2 Super Bowl wins (with the NY Giants of course!) and being one of 5 coaches to take multiple teams to the big game just doesn’t seem to be enough I think. Mark my words, in 2008 there probably will be another go round, the question is where to go?
Oh, did anyone notice the news about the box office leading film Wild Hogs? It’s the buddy film with Mr. Matin Lawrence, Mr. William H. Macy, Mr. Tim Allen, and Mr. John Travolta. I haven’t seen the film but I was moved by the fact that Mr. Travolta decided to use the opening of the film to give a donation to victims of the Lady Lake tornadoes of $15,000 which helped to raise a matching $15,000.
I enjoy mentioning when actors and celebrities make donations for a cause they believe in. This wasn’t a business move, the check was a personal one from Mr. Travolta. That makes the difference for me. It’ may not be the most money ever, but using the clout and attention a leading star has at a movie premiere to bring attention to a worthy cause is something seen too little these days. It doesn’t matter the cause as long as it is genuine and worthwhile. Sadly we just don’t see enough of that.
And just to mention a wacky item I caught, it seems voodoo is a world –wide phenomenon. In this case Pakistan. It seems that a man, obviously distraught, decided that he was going to dig up his father – who was dead for 2 years – so he could resurrect him. I think this is how a couple of old zombie movies started, but life is stranger than fiction. In case you wondered the spells didn’t work and the skeleton has since been laid back to rest. The things you find on the internet some days.
This is what I think, what do you think?
It seems a study that was out recently states that if you have one of these dishes a day then the odds are 27% greater to become pregnant. Now this could be a factor for a a few couples out there. And you thought the worst you had to worry about was a few extra pounds. Still it makes that little snack a bit risque. One thing they didn’t mention in the study is if having whipped cream and/or chocolate syrup with the ice cream makes the odds go up even more (or even the odds without the ice cream). Just thought you might want to know.
For those lamenting the time until football (American) returns in the summer, there is a bit of news as well. The Big Tuna, Mr. Bill Parcells, is going to miss the 2007 season. Like 2002 Mr. Parcells will be going back to ESPN to be on the Monday Night Countdown. Mr. Parcells is always interesting to listen to and ESPN will no doubt have better rating with him. Still there is the thought that some team in the next season will sorely miss the overall strategy and ability he brings to any team. I suggest that once the season starts everyone pays attention to the teams doing poorly. I believe that this recent ‘retirement’ is temporary, perhaps being a way to drive up the bidding wars and to better evaluate which team will best match his criteria as a head coach. 19 years, 2 Super Bowl wins (with the NY Giants of course!) and being one of 5 coaches to take multiple teams to the big game just doesn’t seem to be enough I think. Mark my words, in 2008 there probably will be another go round, the question is where to go?
Oh, did anyone notice the news about the box office leading film Wild Hogs? It’s the buddy film with Mr. Matin Lawrence, Mr. William H. Macy, Mr. Tim Allen, and Mr. John Travolta. I haven’t seen the film but I was moved by the fact that Mr. Travolta decided to use the opening of the film to give a donation to victims of the Lady Lake tornadoes of $15,000 which helped to raise a matching $15,000.
I enjoy mentioning when actors and celebrities make donations for a cause they believe in. This wasn’t a business move, the check was a personal one from Mr. Travolta. That makes the difference for me. It’ may not be the most money ever, but using the clout and attention a leading star has at a movie premiere to bring attention to a worthy cause is something seen too little these days. It doesn’t matter the cause as long as it is genuine and worthwhile. Sadly we just don’t see enough of that.
And just to mention a wacky item I caught, it seems voodoo is a world –wide phenomenon. In this case Pakistan. It seems that a man, obviously distraught, decided that he was going to dig up his father – who was dead for 2 years – so he could resurrect him. I think this is how a couple of old zombie movies started, but life is stranger than fiction. In case you wondered the spells didn’t work and the skeleton has since been laid back to rest. The things you find on the internet some days.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Chuck Creekmur and Rap on Fox News - 3.7.2007.2
But in the real world, I want to commend Mr. Chuck Creekmur. On The Big Story at 5:15pm, Fox News, Mr. Creekmur was interviewed on the issue of the influence of hip-hop on teens, specifically the kids that gave blunts to the toddlers. Mr. Creekmur correctly mentioned that there has been nothing that connects rap or hip hop with the actions of those teens. He asserted that the real issue was what the parents of those kids failed to do, teach those kids that such actions at the least are reprehensible. He reminded the audience that the images portrayed by hip hop today is one that has been approved by corporate boardroom executives, funded and advertised to have the image that is so common today.
While the interview was trying to be driven towards blaming rap and hip-hop, which do have problems – something that Mr. Creekmur did not deny – the connection does not exist and the conclusion is unfair. [My comments on the obviously stupid teens can be seen at Where are the complaints, drugs and smoking - 3.6.2007.1] The issue is bigger than such a simple and one-sided accusation. The faults of rap and hip hop lie as much with the executives as the fan base, which is driven primarily by White patrons.
Entertainers are responsible for their actions, both on stage and in the world. They are made to be role models, and how they present themselves is their own fault. But to blame the thoughtless actions of random people to these entertainers, on the sole basis that they are African American and there are drugs involved in this situation is wrong and insulting – to me. As Mr. Creekmur mentioned, where is the outcry about the virtual elimination of any form of rap or hip-hop that conveys a positive message? Where are the investigations why record studio executives consistently stereotype the Black community, or why there is active censorship of the formats availablke to the public?
I can’t agree that this is a ‘chicken before the egg’ argument. As I’ve mentioned many times before, rap and hip hop was not always the current simplistic, redundant, refuse we see today. In virtually 2 years any format that was not ‘gansta’ was removed from public access. Why has no comment come about that? Critisim of what is the music genre today must have that question in it.
But I’m glad that Mr. Creekmur, owner of www.allhiphop.com, was above the bait laid before him and made the credible arguments he did. That’s worthy of respect and comment in my eyes.
This is what I think, what do you think?
While the interview was trying to be driven towards blaming rap and hip-hop, which do have problems – something that Mr. Creekmur did not deny – the connection does not exist and the conclusion is unfair. [My comments on the obviously stupid teens can be seen at Where are the complaints, drugs and smoking - 3.6.2007.1] The issue is bigger than such a simple and one-sided accusation. The faults of rap and hip hop lie as much with the executives as the fan base, which is driven primarily by White patrons.
Entertainers are responsible for their actions, both on stage and in the world. They are made to be role models, and how they present themselves is their own fault. But to blame the thoughtless actions of random people to these entertainers, on the sole basis that they are African American and there are drugs involved in this situation is wrong and insulting – to me. As Mr. Creekmur mentioned, where is the outcry about the virtual elimination of any form of rap or hip-hop that conveys a positive message? Where are the investigations why record studio executives consistently stereotype the Black community, or why there is active censorship of the formats availablke to the public?
I can’t agree that this is a ‘chicken before the egg’ argument. As I’ve mentioned many times before, rap and hip hop was not always the current simplistic, redundant, refuse we see today. In virtually 2 years any format that was not ‘gansta’ was removed from public access. Why has no comment come about that? Critisim of what is the music genre today must have that question in it.
But I’m glad that Mr. Creekmur, owner of www.allhiphop.com, was above the bait laid before him and made the credible arguments he did. That’s worthy of respect and comment in my eyes.
This is what I think, what do you think?
The death of Captain America - 3.7.2007.1
I was going to speak on a couple of different topics today, but then I caught 2 different items that changed all that. The first I will address has to do with Marvel comic books, but is part of the common lexicon. As of today, Captian America is dead. Yes, he was assassinated.
Some may say so what, a lot of others will be shocked. The repercussions of this are deeper than either reaction I think. For those who have no idea what I am talking about, Captain America is a character in comic books that originates back in 1941. The character was a representation of what America needed to do about WWII and other national issues after that time. He is the representation of all the ideas and virtues of the nation, without the boy scout attitude of Superman [no offense intended to Boy Scouts – like my best friend – and if you have seen Kill Bill 2 you will see why I agree with the interpretation of Superman]. His reach has crossed not only this nation but 75 countries with over 210 million copies sold.
But Captain America is more that a drawing on a book. He is incorporated into the American psyche. Various real performers have adopted the name or have been referred to it because of their outstanding actions, from wrestling to football over decades. The character and its symbolism have been quoted in movies, books, and everyday life. In both a compliment or an insult, to be called ‘Captain America’ is to exude facets of American values and life.
The character has apparently died before, notably in the 1950’s for about a decade. But their has always been a return and in between other versions have taken his place. This is because, I feel, an image of the best in this nation is always required. Comic books are simply a soap opera in an alternate visual format. They touch upon the issues of the day and at the best moments provide social commentary. They can reach readers of all ages, with commentary that might not otherwise be discussed or accepted, promoting discussion and though. In the best moments.
Yet, at a time when America is becoming viciously divided over core issues, one of the enduring symbols of the nation has been written-off. I don’t understand. This was a great time to address the non-partisan commonalities of the nation. This symbol could help lead the way, or provide discussion point, for the youth that may be confused by the War in Iraq and vs. terrorism. Instead the character was abandoned.
Series writer Ed Brubaker said, "What I found is that all the really hard-core left-wing fans want Cap to be standing out on and giving speeches on the streetcorner against the Bush administration, and all the really right-wing [fans] all want him to be over in the streets of Baghdad, punching out Saddam.” That I feel is the perfect opportunity to allow the character to stand up and mention that neither view is absolutely right. That America is more than just one of those views and that both have degrees of merit. This was an opportunity for Marvel to shine, and America to reach millions around the world and evoke the fact that propaganda aside we are the greatest nation on earth because of the divergent views we hold and the overriding values we all believe in. But instead Mr. Brubaker and Marvel have shied away from what the character would have done, missing a moment to shine in the chaos that surrounds us.
Some may say so what, a lot of others will be shocked. The repercussions of this are deeper than either reaction I think. For those who have no idea what I am talking about, Captain America is a character in comic books that originates back in 1941. The character was a representation of what America needed to do about WWII and other national issues after that time. He is the representation of all the ideas and virtues of the nation, without the boy scout attitude of Superman [no offense intended to Boy Scouts – like my best friend – and if you have seen Kill Bill 2 you will see why I agree with the interpretation of Superman]. His reach has crossed not only this nation but 75 countries with over 210 million copies sold.
But Captain America is more that a drawing on a book. He is incorporated into the American psyche. Various real performers have adopted the name or have been referred to it because of their outstanding actions, from wrestling to football over decades. The character and its symbolism have been quoted in movies, books, and everyday life. In both a compliment or an insult, to be called ‘Captain America’ is to exude facets of American values and life.
The character has apparently died before, notably in the 1950’s for about a decade. But their has always been a return and in between other versions have taken his place. This is because, I feel, an image of the best in this nation is always required. Comic books are simply a soap opera in an alternate visual format. They touch upon the issues of the day and at the best moments provide social commentary. They can reach readers of all ages, with commentary that might not otherwise be discussed or accepted, promoting discussion and though. In the best moments.
Yet, at a time when America is becoming viciously divided over core issues, one of the enduring symbols of the nation has been written-off. I don’t understand. This was a great time to address the non-partisan commonalities of the nation. This symbol could help lead the way, or provide discussion point, for the youth that may be confused by the War in Iraq and vs. terrorism. Instead the character was abandoned.
Series writer Ed Brubaker said, "What I found is that all the really hard-core left-wing fans want Cap to be standing out on and giving speeches on the streetcorner against the Bush administration, and all the really right-wing [fans] all want him to be over in the streets of Baghdad, punching out Saddam.” That I feel is the perfect opportunity to allow the character to stand up and mention that neither view is absolutely right. That America is more than just one of those views and that both have degrees of merit. This was an opportunity for Marvel to shine, and America to reach millions around the world and evoke the fact that propaganda aside we are the greatest nation on earth because of the divergent views we hold and the overriding values we all believe in. But instead Mr. Brubaker and Marvel have shied away from what the character would have done, missing a moment to shine in the chaos that surrounds us.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Where are the complaints, drugs and smoking - 3.6.2007.1
Well here is something I’d never thought I’d say, it may be a good thing most actors are White. Why in the world would I say that? Because of a recent study that has found that White teens are more likely to become smokers than African American teens. Let me get into the details of this a bit.
Given parameters of the study being equal, the more White teens watch R-rated movies and/or unsupervised television shows the more likely they were to smoke. The key cause of this is that there are almost as many scenes of smoking today as in the 1950’s. That’s important because, like any time since movies or television have existed, virtually all the characters are White. Thus impressionable teens take the lead from these characters and begin smoking as well, because they feel a deeper connection to the characters on-screen. [Mind you that any teen so weak willed as to do something because a character on TV does it has problems, in my opinion.]
I’ve commented several times in previous posts [Minorities, Television and 27 percent, German police and television programing - 10.05.2006.2] that the lack of diversity in television programming and theatrical movies is appalling. My own efforts to gauge the failure of diversity came up with roughly 2% of main characters in television being African American, Latino, Hispanic or any other minority. More official estimates claim that the diversity is a whopping 5% (though that value includes the number of minorities behind the scenes and not on-screen). I feel that movies are similar, though the behind the scenes crew-members are slightly higher (roughly 1-2% more). These ridiculous numbers have only one benefit, the fact that there are less Black, Hispanic, and minority teens starting smoking because of the visual images they are watching. [And an interesting aside is that I must conclude that they are far less impressionable and weak-willed.]
Now before anyone starts to freak out, whether in agreement of dissent, there is a problem that has far too readily featured African Americans recently – teens and parents teaching children to smoke pot. What is wrong with these people?
I have no doubt that there are White Americans that give their kids drugs (in fact I’m aware of a case out in this area where a mother was arrested for doing so, claiming it helped calm the kids down – idiot) but the media has made no bones about highlighting the YouTube video of the Black teens. The fact that this happens is insane. I’d rather see the teens smoking cigarettes. [But not sharing them with toddlers.]
What is happening to our society when people of any age think its ok to provide near babies with drugs. Because they can share this on the internet? Like this is a positive thing to do. As if it were ok for the teens to have the drugs in the first place. Where is the outrage from the NAACP and Rev. Al Sharpton or Rev. Jesse Jackson? Why hasn’t YouTube said that this is not condoned? Yes they were arrested but it shouldn’t have been possible in the first place.
I’m scared by the thought that if White teens can start smoking because of watching movies and television and identifying with the characters, what videos like this and others may cause in the Black community. Especially without the justified outrage they should inspire. Does it take a video of some teen doping a baby with heroin to get some reaction? And I’m not suggestion that this be done. If someone does that’s worth the death penalty in my opinion.
Neither of these things is good. There is no higher ground in either of these things. Everyone should be upset at all the aspects these 2 items display. And something should be done to prevent this from happening again. Not just editing or censoring the offenses, but active action to prevent this behavior.
[I feel I must mention that I am a smoker. I started in college and it had nothing to do with television or movies. I try to never smoke in front of children, or my mother for that matter. I do not recommend anyone to start smoking. I do not do drugs and wish that on no one.]
This is what I think, what do you think?
Given parameters of the study being equal, the more White teens watch R-rated movies and/or unsupervised television shows the more likely they were to smoke. The key cause of this is that there are almost as many scenes of smoking today as in the 1950’s. That’s important because, like any time since movies or television have existed, virtually all the characters are White. Thus impressionable teens take the lead from these characters and begin smoking as well, because they feel a deeper connection to the characters on-screen. [Mind you that any teen so weak willed as to do something because a character on TV does it has problems, in my opinion.]
I’ve commented several times in previous posts [Minorities, Television and 27 percent, German police and television programing - 10.05.2006.2] that the lack of diversity in television programming and theatrical movies is appalling. My own efforts to gauge the failure of diversity came up with roughly 2% of main characters in television being African American, Latino, Hispanic or any other minority. More official estimates claim that the diversity is a whopping 5% (though that value includes the number of minorities behind the scenes and not on-screen). I feel that movies are similar, though the behind the scenes crew-members are slightly higher (roughly 1-2% more). These ridiculous numbers have only one benefit, the fact that there are less Black, Hispanic, and minority teens starting smoking because of the visual images they are watching. [And an interesting aside is that I must conclude that they are far less impressionable and weak-willed.]
Now before anyone starts to freak out, whether in agreement of dissent, there is a problem that has far too readily featured African Americans recently – teens and parents teaching children to smoke pot. What is wrong with these people?
I have no doubt that there are White Americans that give their kids drugs (in fact I’m aware of a case out in this area where a mother was arrested for doing so, claiming it helped calm the kids down – idiot) but the media has made no bones about highlighting the YouTube video of the Black teens. The fact that this happens is insane. I’d rather see the teens smoking cigarettes. [But not sharing them with toddlers.]
What is happening to our society when people of any age think its ok to provide near babies with drugs. Because they can share this on the internet? Like this is a positive thing to do. As if it were ok for the teens to have the drugs in the first place. Where is the outrage from the NAACP and Rev. Al Sharpton or Rev. Jesse Jackson? Why hasn’t YouTube said that this is not condoned? Yes they were arrested but it shouldn’t have been possible in the first place.
I’m scared by the thought that if White teens can start smoking because of watching movies and television and identifying with the characters, what videos like this and others may cause in the Black community. Especially without the justified outrage they should inspire. Does it take a video of some teen doping a baby with heroin to get some reaction? And I’m not suggestion that this be done. If someone does that’s worth the death penalty in my opinion.
Neither of these things is good. There is no higher ground in either of these things. Everyone should be upset at all the aspects these 2 items display. And something should be done to prevent this from happening again. Not just editing or censoring the offenses, but active action to prevent this behavior.
[I feel I must mention that I am a smoker. I started in college and it had nothing to do with television or movies. I try to never smoke in front of children, or my mother for that matter. I do not recommend anyone to start smoking. I do not do drugs and wish that on no one.]
This is what I think, what do you think?
Monday, March 05, 2007
A few odd bits - 3.5.2007.1
Just a couple of silly things I noticed in the last couple of days. One thing that may be of interest is a new dating site. I’m sure it will take of for the PETA crowd, though I’m not sure who else it may interest. The site, originally from the Dutch but since copied in the U.S. and other nations, is unique because of who it targets – single pet owners. Yes if you have been sitting at home with your 4 cats and 2 dogs wondering where is the love of your life, that loves your pets as much as you, this is the site you need. And guys take note, most of the initial respondents to this site are women.
I’m not one for sharing time at a zoo, though I do like most dogs and have owned a few over the years, but I’m sure someone must enjoy it. If you’ve been searching for that person who spends more on their pets than their own household bills go for it. Don’t get me wrong, I love dogs and to a lesser degree other pets (except pitbulls, Rotwiellers and Dobermans – long story) but I have limits. Yet the internet is fantastic for finding that fringe group you’ve always wanted to be part of. And a bonus is the site is Dutch.
I mention it’s a bonus that the site is Dutch because they officially are the happiest people in Europe. 97% of people in Denmark feel they are happy, better than all the rest of Europe. But it doesn’t end there, they also aren’t worried about the pensions. Life is pretty good out there.
But reality does hit Europe like it does here in America. About 66% or Europeans thing the future generations will have a harder life than now. There is also a consensus of thought that most do not trust their politicians or governments or political parties. Well I can’t really blame them on that one.
Still for all the joy out there in Europe they still don’t get to have the simple pleasures here in America. Simple if you can afford it, like the 2.3 million dollars spent on a Honus Wagner baseball card. Yes someone spent more than $2 million on a card. I don’t get it. I can only imagine it as a waste of money. Wine you can drink, or at least cook with. Real estate you can live on. Investments can make you more money, but a baseball card?
Yes it’s a rare card, and as a former comic book collector I can understand the desire to own a rare item. But I’d never buy the X-Men #4 for $250,000 as an example. It just makes no sense and I like that series. Even thirty thousand dollars seems a lot for it and it has several pages and tells a story. The baseball card is just an image and some stats, that if you don’t know the full history means nothing. I just don’t get it. Obviously someone else does though. And it proves that there is nothing like this homegrown game in the world.
Ok, more later.
This is what I think, what do you think?
I’m not one for sharing time at a zoo, though I do like most dogs and have owned a few over the years, but I’m sure someone must enjoy it. If you’ve been searching for that person who spends more on their pets than their own household bills go for it. Don’t get me wrong, I love dogs and to a lesser degree other pets (except pitbulls, Rotwiellers and Dobermans – long story) but I have limits. Yet the internet is fantastic for finding that fringe group you’ve always wanted to be part of. And a bonus is the site is Dutch.
I mention it’s a bonus that the site is Dutch because they officially are the happiest people in Europe. 97% of people in Denmark feel they are happy, better than all the rest of Europe. But it doesn’t end there, they also aren’t worried about the pensions. Life is pretty good out there.
But reality does hit Europe like it does here in America. About 66% or Europeans thing the future generations will have a harder life than now. There is also a consensus of thought that most do not trust their politicians or governments or political parties. Well I can’t really blame them on that one.
Still for all the joy out there in Europe they still don’t get to have the simple pleasures here in America. Simple if you can afford it, like the 2.3 million dollars spent on a Honus Wagner baseball card. Yes someone spent more than $2 million on a card. I don’t get it. I can only imagine it as a waste of money. Wine you can drink, or at least cook with. Real estate you can live on. Investments can make you more money, but a baseball card?
Yes it’s a rare card, and as a former comic book collector I can understand the desire to own a rare item. But I’d never buy the X-Men #4 for $250,000 as an example. It just makes no sense and I like that series. Even thirty thousand dollars seems a lot for it and it has several pages and tells a story. The baseball card is just an image and some stats, that if you don’t know the full history means nothing. I just don’t get it. Obviously someone else does though. And it proves that there is nothing like this homegrown game in the world.
Ok, more later.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Final thoughts on declining rap sales and the future - 3.1.2007.3
Continued from part 2 of the death of rap - 3.1.2007.2 ...
The fact is that the ‘thug’ life is a choice relatively few African Americans chose. But it is those few that have been paraded around on the media like a prize winning dog at a kennel show. I’m no fool, being Black in America is no picnic but it is far from a death sentence or a life long prison sentence in a ghetto. The “hip-hop hoodlums” responsible for the anarchy at the NBA All-Star game in Vegas that Mr. Jason Whitlock wrote about chose to be that way. The only Black artists that “shuck and jive”, as rapper David Banner calls it, are in my opinion rappers. Recent Oscar Award winners Ms. Jennifer Hudson, Mr. Forest Whitaker, Mr. Denzel Washington, and Mr. Jamie Foxx can hardly be described in such a manner. Entertainers like Mr. Stevie Wonder, Mr. Quincy Jones, Mr. Chuck D, Ice-T, and the late Mr. Ray Charles don’t fit such a description either. Yet I feel such a label could be applied more easily to 50 cent, than Mr. Spike Lee. Thus in my opinion rappers today that live the ‘thug life’ are merely showcasing a modern version of the minstrel show, for the main audience of White Americans that buy their albums.
So I am glad to hear that more are heeding the call started by Ms. C. Dolores Tucker, and continued by individuals such as Professor Tracy Denean Sharpley-Whiting, Mr. Bryan Hunt, Mr. Rashod D. Ollison, and others (including myself in my own small way). I am happy to learn that sales have dropped 21%, and that no rap album has hit the top 10 for the first time in 12 years. Happy that is if diversity becomes more prevalent. If the realities of what I think is accurate of most Black Americans gets to be heard. I’d love to see fewer music video girls and ‘crunk’ and ‘bling’ [what kind of ebonic idiocy are those words? They rate right up there with that ‘fasizzle’ lunacy. Get a dictionary and learn to speak your native tongue] if it means I can see substance, like that evoked by Public Enemy and KRS-One. Throw in a little mindless fun like Mr. Will Smith’s original alter-ego the Fresh Prince and Grand Master Flash and the Furious Five and I’m a very happy man. I’m sure sales would actually go back up, and probably surge beyond what they have been.
Because I don’t think rap is a temporary medium. I think it’s a powerful form of entertainment, and social outcries. It’s a voice that can express all the aspects of Black American life. Because being African American is not a singular mold, nor a commodity or as Mr. Chuck D states, "...one-dimensionalized and commodified us into being a one-trick image". It was all these positive things once, and it can be again. But until then rap aides and abets the worst attributes of the Black community while giving a show that makes ‘shucking and jiving’ look like a waltz.
This is what I think, what do you think?
The fact is that the ‘thug’ life is a choice relatively few African Americans chose. But it is those few that have been paraded around on the media like a prize winning dog at a kennel show. I’m no fool, being Black in America is no picnic but it is far from a death sentence or a life long prison sentence in a ghetto. The “hip-hop hoodlums” responsible for the anarchy at the NBA All-Star game in Vegas that Mr. Jason Whitlock wrote about chose to be that way. The only Black artists that “shuck and jive”, as rapper David Banner calls it, are in my opinion rappers. Recent Oscar Award winners Ms. Jennifer Hudson, Mr. Forest Whitaker, Mr. Denzel Washington, and Mr. Jamie Foxx can hardly be described in such a manner. Entertainers like Mr. Stevie Wonder, Mr. Quincy Jones, Mr. Chuck D, Ice-T, and the late Mr. Ray Charles don’t fit such a description either. Yet I feel such a label could be applied more easily to 50 cent, than Mr. Spike Lee. Thus in my opinion rappers today that live the ‘thug life’ are merely showcasing a modern version of the minstrel show, for the main audience of White Americans that buy their albums.
So I am glad to hear that more are heeding the call started by Ms. C. Dolores Tucker, and continued by individuals such as Professor Tracy Denean Sharpley-Whiting, Mr. Bryan Hunt, Mr. Rashod D. Ollison, and others (including myself in my own small way). I am happy to learn that sales have dropped 21%, and that no rap album has hit the top 10 for the first time in 12 years. Happy that is if diversity becomes more prevalent. If the realities of what I think is accurate of most Black Americans gets to be heard. I’d love to see fewer music video girls and ‘crunk’ and ‘bling’ [what kind of ebonic idiocy are those words? They rate right up there with that ‘fasizzle’ lunacy. Get a dictionary and learn to speak your native tongue] if it means I can see substance, like that evoked by Public Enemy and KRS-One. Throw in a little mindless fun like Mr. Will Smith’s original alter-ego the Fresh Prince and Grand Master Flash and the Furious Five and I’m a very happy man. I’m sure sales would actually go back up, and probably surge beyond what they have been.
Because I don’t think rap is a temporary medium. I think it’s a powerful form of entertainment, and social outcries. It’s a voice that can express all the aspects of Black American life. Because being African American is not a singular mold, nor a commodity or as Mr. Chuck D states, "...one-dimensionalized and commodified us into being a one-trick image". It was all these positive things once, and it can be again. But until then rap aides and abets the worst attributes of the Black community while giving a show that makes ‘shucking and jiving’ look like a waltz.
This is what I think, what do you think?
Part 2 of the death of rap - 3.1.2007.2
Continued from part 1 The reported decline of rap music - 3.1.2007.1...
And the issue of what ‘gansta’ rap addresses needs to be addressed. This is supposedly the life of Black Americans, the ‘truth’ of being African American in America today. Perhaps I grew up in the wrong time in the world, or the Bronx is not large enough, or the apartment I grew up in was too rich, but few of the ‘truths’ rap speaks about are what I’ve encountered. While my experiences show that the police are not the most friendly group of individuals (to say the least) they are far from the Klan. While the materials I was taught with were sub-standard, nothing stopped me from seeking more knowledge or furthering my education. While I’ve seen and been in many fights, there was never a need or reason worth killing someone over. And drugs have always been present, though as a child they were beyond the reach of kids; and I’ve seen more childhood friends become addicts, locked up in jail, and dead by the time I graduated high school because of them than I wish to recall.
If the ‘truth’ that ‘gansta’ rap speaks of was true, then my younger siblings should all have very different lives. [I am the oldest, my siblings range from 3 to 14 years my junior] My sisters should all be baby-mamas with 4 kids each from a different father without an education and living off any man that regards their bodies as ‘doable’. I’m happy to say that this is not the case, like many other women my sisters have all attended college (one with a Masters, another with a BS, and a third in school now) and the only one with children is married (with her husband the father). According to rap today, that isn’t the truth yet I see it often. If my brothers were to live by the standards espoused in songs today, I wouldn’t be able to own a company engaged with computers and the internet nor would my brother be able to program computers. None of us would be able to even spell computer, and my other brother would be dead. All of the males in my family would have 6 kids, all from different women, we would sell drugs, kill other Black men to prove we are important, and be addicts. None of this is accurate for my family, nor the vast majority of African Americans I know and have seen across this country.
Continued in the final part 3 ...
And the issue of what ‘gansta’ rap addresses needs to be addressed. This is supposedly the life of Black Americans, the ‘truth’ of being African American in America today. Perhaps I grew up in the wrong time in the world, or the Bronx is not large enough, or the apartment I grew up in was too rich, but few of the ‘truths’ rap speaks about are what I’ve encountered. While my experiences show that the police are not the most friendly group of individuals (to say the least) they are far from the Klan. While the materials I was taught with were sub-standard, nothing stopped me from seeking more knowledge or furthering my education. While I’ve seen and been in many fights, there was never a need or reason worth killing someone over. And drugs have always been present, though as a child they were beyond the reach of kids; and I’ve seen more childhood friends become addicts, locked up in jail, and dead by the time I graduated high school because of them than I wish to recall.
If the ‘truth’ that ‘gansta’ rap speaks of was true, then my younger siblings should all have very different lives. [I am the oldest, my siblings range from 3 to 14 years my junior] My sisters should all be baby-mamas with 4 kids each from a different father without an education and living off any man that regards their bodies as ‘doable’. I’m happy to say that this is not the case, like many other women my sisters have all attended college (one with a Masters, another with a BS, and a third in school now) and the only one with children is married (with her husband the father). According to rap today, that isn’t the truth yet I see it often. If my brothers were to live by the standards espoused in songs today, I wouldn’t be able to own a company engaged with computers and the internet nor would my brother be able to program computers. None of us would be able to even spell computer, and my other brother would be dead. All of the males in my family would have 6 kids, all from different women, we would sell drugs, kill other Black men to prove we are important, and be addicts. None of this is accurate for my family, nor the vast majority of African Americans I know and have seen across this country.
Continued in the final part 3 ...
The reported decline of rap music - 3.1.2007.1
Finally there is an outcry about rap music. I must say that while I am glad this is finally happening there should be an understanding that such an outcry should not be all inclusive. I do not recommend abandoning the music genre en masse. I do not think that it should be censored, or limited. In fact I want it to be widened, more like its original format than the narrow range seen today.
I have long stated that rap today, and hip-hop, is a waste of time. There is far too much copy-catting of the same 3 themes: drugs, sex, and violence. Virtually every rap song, and hip-hop to a large degree, discusses to some extent at least 2 of those 3 themes. Those themes are used to promote the use of drugs, the use of sex as a means of status and degradation, the sale of drugs, and violence to support status, gain income, and further the degradation. For more than a decade this has been the voice of rap.
Yet this was not always the case. Those roughly 35 and older recall that there was more to rap than this. Rap music initially was a statement of fun and enjoyment. It evolved to discuss social ills, individual empowerment and positively being around friends. That’s when it was killed off to be replaced wholesale with what is now the mainstream (formerly the splinter genre ‘gansta’ rap).
Rap is not responsible for someone being so vile as to go out and shoot a cop, or rape a woman, or any other offensive action. I’m sure lawyers wish they could prove that, but it is no more responsible for a thoughtless action than Rock & Roll is for suicides (examples include Marilyn Manson or Metallica). That being said, I do feel it is responsible for praising such actions. Rap today nearly requires its top stars to be convicted felons, drug addicts, and uneducated.
The growth of ‘gansta’ rap is not the fault, or cause of, African Americans. While entertainers emphasize their Black heritage the fact is that sales have been predominantly fueled by White Americans. As the need to ‘express the truth of our lives’ became more violent, sales to White Americans grew. So the claim that, “...the truth is at least us talking about what we're talking about, we can bring certain things to the light,” seems to be reaching a group of people that neither knows what ‘we’ are talking about nor capable of making it change [those changes being a personal responsibility not a societal one].
Continued in part 2...
I have long stated that rap today, and hip-hop, is a waste of time. There is far too much copy-catting of the same 3 themes: drugs, sex, and violence. Virtually every rap song, and hip-hop to a large degree, discusses to some extent at least 2 of those 3 themes. Those themes are used to promote the use of drugs, the use of sex as a means of status and degradation, the sale of drugs, and violence to support status, gain income, and further the degradation. For more than a decade this has been the voice of rap.
Yet this was not always the case. Those roughly 35 and older recall that there was more to rap than this. Rap music initially was a statement of fun and enjoyment. It evolved to discuss social ills, individual empowerment and positively being around friends. That’s when it was killed off to be replaced wholesale with what is now the mainstream (formerly the splinter genre ‘gansta’ rap).
Rap is not responsible for someone being so vile as to go out and shoot a cop, or rape a woman, or any other offensive action. I’m sure lawyers wish they could prove that, but it is no more responsible for a thoughtless action than Rock & Roll is for suicides (examples include Marilyn Manson or Metallica). That being said, I do feel it is responsible for praising such actions. Rap today nearly requires its top stars to be convicted felons, drug addicts, and uneducated.
The growth of ‘gansta’ rap is not the fault, or cause of, African Americans. While entertainers emphasize their Black heritage the fact is that sales have been predominantly fueled by White Americans. As the need to ‘express the truth of our lives’ became more violent, sales to White Americans grew. So the claim that, “...the truth is at least us talking about what we're talking about, we can bring certain things to the light,” seems to be reaching a group of people that neither knows what ‘we’ are talking about nor capable of making it change [those changes being a personal responsibility not a societal one].
Continued in part 2...
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