The song itself is melodic and relaxing. It speaks of escape and freedom. It's a song that can clearly stand on it's own as well as draw new fans besides reward old fans of Badu.
But it's the music video that will gain the most attention.
Of course there will be some, mostly men, that will watch the video over and over again. That is the voyeuristic nature the music video lends itself to. That alone could cause enough controversy, reminiscent of Maddona in her heyday.
But it is the symbolic representation of the assassination of JFK that will, and is, causing the most attention. It's something that just doesn't quite match the song. I'm not completely sure why she matched this video to the music.
The theme is evolution. Evolving past the petty hatreds and close-minded thoughts that lead to violence in all forms. I get that. The first clue is the obvious "EVOLVING" we see prominently on her back.
I believe that her stripping is symbolic as well. Shedding the societal confines that limit us all to specific categories and reactions. In embracing her natural beauty and naked form, Erykah Badu is freeing herself from being defined by stereotypes and categories. It is that self-awareness and freedom that strikes fear into others, causing them to strike out at her.
When Badu lays on the ground, I can't tell exactly what the word is on the ground. It looks like GAPX or GARX. If I could understand that I might understand more fully the message the music video is trying to convey.
**I have found out the word is "groupthink" - a term meaning that people will all act alike for fear of being ostracized. Similar in a way to mob mentality I believe. Which makes more sense of the video and confirms the message of growing beyond the restrictions and limitiations set by society.**
Still in looking at the video in whole, I still find it jarring compared to the lyrics. It still is not a mesh of visual and musical. It does accomplish what it sets out to do, and dramatically. But I'm not sure the message will be clear to so many that will be offended by the reference to JFK, nudity, and I can hear N.O.W. proclaiming it glorifies violence against women.
But perhaps these are the very things that it means to clash with? Perhaps thats why the lyrics state
"I just want a chance to fly"
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1 comment:
great detailed review of the song, hopefully your review will help the public see the song for what it really is.
cheers!
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