I had initially felt obligated not to go in on the Lupe Fiasco debacle. I was reassured my presence wasn’t necessary, after reading an article on The Insanity Report, where Kriss scrutinized everything wrong with Lupe’s logic (or lack of). I give him all the credit in the world for making a seemingly genuine attempt, but sometimes we need to stress that public figures (especially those with impressionable audiences) be more accountable for statements they put out in public. His disorientated approach to all things political is a bit inconsistent (to say the least). Nevertheless, that won’t prevent him from building on the controversy, ignited by his June 7, 2011, interview with Shira Lazar, of “What’s Trending” (CBS News).
If there is any signpost (for the basis of your entertainment choosing) in this scenario, let it be said that Wasalu Muhammad Jaco, single-handedly restored the ever so needed civility into public discourse. His bold and courageous maneuver, positioning Bill O’Reilly into a President Obama apologist is one for the ages! Perhaps, Bill O’ was fully aware of the opportunity to play devil’s advocate, against one who would typically be himself espousing radical views. I might suggest that Bill’s delight in taking on such an academic lightweight is some sort of inner-personal escape. Otherwise, I’m sure he knew he’d catch today’s headlines for seeming to come off as a rational person.
At the end of the day, I should excuse Lupe for his struggle in finding the proper voice to articulate his position on such complex issues. Sometimes, “all the credit in the world” may have to suffice for a young black man, who reaches out to youth primarily through rhyme & rhythm and with a direct sociological focus. In the midst of the paradigm shift, we shall certainly experience the occasional glitch in the spectrum. Thus, it is crucial that more influential youth learn the systems and [correctly] speak truth to power during these historical moments in our society.
While Lupe is not the ideal spokesperson for his intended message, his sentiments do resonate with a considerable amount of people, who aren’t so inarticulate. And while he was compelled to clarify his remarks, it’s not everyday that a Hip Hop artist is leading a serious discussion on domestic and foreign policy. Many people will fall into that familiar trap of dismissing him and his rant entirely, but in this current phase of youth culture, I’m compelled to find the silver lining in his line of crap. That doesn’t negate his responsibility to properly educate himself on an issue before airing his views about it, nor does it pardon his irrational treatment of the issue. If he’s not aware of the potential consequences behind everyone not voting, there are plenty historical references for him to enlighten himself with. As well, it is all but hilarious to take the position that you won’t vote for or support a candidate, unless you are going to vouch for their every action.
Critics of Lupe and Obama can both find some pleasure in today’s youth taking any interest in politics and we can give Lupe a few cool points for engaging them. Both critics can also rejoice in the fact that O’Reilly isn’t as loony as he likes to portray himself to be and that his inclination to pick on rappers may simply be a subconscious attempt to release his inner-hoodlum.
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Emil Ovbiagele