"Say Drake:" Creatives Are The Storytellers Of A Generation

Not political organizers

Last night, I tuned into Super Bowl LIX to see Kendrick Lamar share his artistry with the world... and to see him perform Not Like Us. Not only did he perform hits fans love, but he gave the people who understand his messaging a show for us by us. The all-Black dancer crew told stories through movement and, when matched with song, effectively reminded us who built this country—juxtaposed with Uncle Sam in the form of a Black man critiquing Lamar’s manner of expression in real-time.

All week long, there have been breakdowns and critiques of the performance. Some will call Lamar a genius, and others say his work is performative and that the show was boring. Others enjoy the continued jabs at Drake (I mean, Serena’s appearance had me hollering!!!). This happens every time Beyonce performs as well. But, the criticism for artists is amped up in these dire political times. People are looking for leadership and want these artists to make strong statements denouncing various business and government actions.

But most artists aren’t political activists.