Shad – Keep Shining (video)
Posted in Artists, Music Videos on February 9th, 2011 by HyphenA few days ago, we all watched in agony as the Black Eyed Peas performed during half time of the Super Bowl and following that debacle, I had numerous debates with friends centered upon the notion of authenticity and “selling out.” Without rehashing those conversations and instead to take it another direction, it’s safe to say that Shad represents everything that I look for in a MC in 2011. Obviously, the skills are there, but lots of people can rhyme. It’s another thing to not just speak on “real” issues, but to do so in an intelligent, thought provoking, and positive manner.
“Be the change you want to see in the world,” and take pride in the music you create, consume, and generally identify with. Would you be comfortable playing the music you listen to for kids in your neighborhood? Your parents? Your coworkers? If not, you should reevaluate your consumption. This isn’t to say that you have to listen to nothing but positive music, but you must be able to explain why you appreciate the art you associate yourself with, at least on some level. Assuming, of course, you consider yourself a music lover. If you’re just a listener and not a lover, carry on.
