As has been the case the past few weeks, keeping it going by sharing messages that need to be heard. They are from voices stronger, braver, and truer than my own about these topics. Sobering subject matter, but appropriately beautiful for this day, Juneteenth 2020.
J Dilla “People”
I could have many editions based on Dilla’s life and discography, but here seems like a great place to start. From the album recorded in the hospital and released 3 days before his death, Donuts, this track contains a sample of Eddie Kendrick’s “My People…Hold On”. Taking the time to listen to the original song, it is a pretty obvious choice for a day like today.
Hold on to love, let its light be your guide
Eddie Kendrick
My people!
I remember first hearing the Donuts album because of those bumper videos between Adult Swim shows in the mid 2000s. For example, Top three record producers ever [in no particular order]: Jay Dee, J Dilla, Dilla. Runner up: James Dewitt Yancey.
Noname “Song 33”
I can’t say I’d heard of Noname before this week, which is a shame. What an amazingly talented poet, rapper, and Twitter mic-dropper she is. She only needed her words, but Madlib made the beat just in case.
With so many evils in today’s world, a powerful Black woman running a book club focused on the critical discussion of human conditions feels like an incredibly poor target for a Black male artist to aim at.
KRS-One “The Sound of da Police”
Who better to learn from than The Teacher himself, KRS-One. I mean, even Chuck D said to listen to KRS-One today. I’m not sure what stronger endorsement you’re looking for than that.
Your laws are minimal
KRS-One
‘Cause you won’t even think about lookin’ at the real criminal
