A Black American - Def Poetry Jam
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- Опубліковано 12 вер 2024
- I love being Black. I love being called Black. I love being an American.
I love being a Black American, but as a Black man in this country I think it's a shame that every few years we get a change of name.
Since those first ships arrived here from Africa that came across the sea there were already Black men in this country who were free.
And as for those that came over here on those terrible boats, they were called niggah and slave and told what to do and how to behave.
And then master started trippin' and doing his midnight tippin', down to the slave shacks where he forced he and Great-Great Grandma to be together, and if Great-Great Grandpa protested, he got tarred and feathered.
And at the same time, the Black men in the country who were free, were mating with the tribes like the Apache and the Cherokee.
And as a result of all that, we're a parade of every shade.
And as in this late day and age, you can be sure, they ain't too many of us in this country whose bloodline is pure.
But, according to a geological, geographical, genealogy study published in Time Magazine, the Black African people were the first on the scene, so for what it's worth, the Black African people were the first on earth and through migration, our characteristics started to change, and rearrange, to adapt to whatever climate we migrated to.
And that's how I became me, and you became you.
So, if we gonna go back, let's go all the way back, and if Adam was Black and Eve was Black, then that kind of makes it a natural fact that everybody in America is an African American.
Everybody in Europe is an African European; everybody in the Orient is an African Asian and so on and so on, that is, if the origin of man is what we're gonna go on.
And if one drop of Black blood makes you Black like they say, then everybody's Black anyway.
So quit trying to change my identity.
I'm already who I was meant to be I'm a Black American, born and raised.
And brother James Brown wrote a wonderful phrase, "Say it loud, I'm Black and I'm proud! Say it loud, I'm Black and I'm proud!"
Cause I'm proud to be Black and I ain't never lived in Africa, and 'cause my Great-Great Granddaddy on my Daddy's side did, don't mean I want to go back.
Now I have nothing against Africa, it's where some of the most beautiful places and people in the world are found.
But I've been blessed to go a lot of places in this world, and if you ask me where I choose to live, I pick America, hands down.
Now, by and by, we were called Negroes, and after while, that name has vanished.
Anyway, Negro is just how you say 'black' in Spanish.
Then, we were called colored, but shit, everybody's one color or another, and I think it's a shame that we hold that against each other.
And it seems like we reverted back to a time when being called Black was an insult, even if it was another Black man who said it, a fight would result, cause we've been so brainwashed that Black was wrong, So that even the yellow niggahs and black niggahs couldn't get along.
But then, came the 1960s when we struggled and died to be called equal and Black, and we walked with pride with our heads held high and our shoulders pushed back, and Black was beautiful.
But, I guess that wasn't good enough, cause now here they come with some other stuff.
Who comes up with this shit anyway?
Was it one, or a group of niggahs sitting around one day?
Feelin' a little insecure again about being called Black and decided that African American sounded a little more exotic.
Well, I think you were being a little more neurotic.
It's that same mentality that got "Amos and Andy" put off the air, cause they were embarrassed about the way the character's spoke.
And as a result of that action, a lot of wonderful Black actors ended up broke.
When we were just laughin' and have fun about ourselves.
Why you keep trying to attach yourself to a continent, where if you got the chance and you went, most people there would even claim you as one of them; as a pure bread daughter or son of them.
Your heritage is right here now, no matter what you call yourself or what you say And a lot of people died to make it that way.
And if you think America is a leader on inequality and suffering and grievin', how come there so many people comin' and so few leavin'?
Rather than all this 'find fault with America' fuck you promotin', if you want to change something, use your privilege, get to the polls!
Commence to votin'!
God knows we've earned the right to be called American Americans and be free at last.
And rather than you movin' forward progress, you dwelling in the past.
We've struggled too long; we've come too far.
Instead of focusing on who we were, let's be proud of who we are.
We are the only people whose name is always a trend.
When is this shit gonna end?
Look at all the different colors of our skin...
I was born and grew up in Texas can't get no more American then that!! I am a Black American all day every day
Perfectly said Mr. Robinson. I'm a black man and wouldn't want it any other way!!!
Thank you Smokey!! I've said this over and over! I know the difference. I'm a "Black American" from L.A.! I wish your words and poerty could be heard and read throughout the world. I've been saying it since I was a child " Say it loud! I'm black and I'm proud!
That's right Smokey say it loud I'm black and I am proud!!!
i love being black
This is hands down the most powerful poem I've ever heard. It's good to be proud! I appreciate and respect Smokey Robinson for this poem.
I met Smokey Robinson back in 1964 outside of the back door of the Howard Theater on T Street in Washington, D.C. after one of the famed Motown Reviews of the 60's. This poem appears to reflect a lifetime of dealing with color even with all of his success. Smokey's embracing his American heritage because it is the one he knows for sure. Wearing Kinte & braiding one's hair doesn't prove Blackness. At the end of the day, he, like us, is a human being and that is all that truly matters.
Tell it like it is Mr. Robinson. You are the Ultimate Poet. God Bless you. Ginger
brilliant!!!!
I was having this conversation with a friend on this last week. I love Black and being called Black!! This poem encapsulates my feelings completely. The only critique I made was on his Beverly Hill Hillbilies comment. When you're on top and own TV, you can afford to laugh at yourself.
Still does not detract from a brilliant work by Smokey and should be heard by every Black young teen in this country.
Never knew Smokey could speaks as well as he can sing....He should be proud!!!!
Wow, Smokey put it down, Jack!! He covered all grounds. Nothing left uncovered! Say it loud, "We're Black and we're proud"!
This is telling it like it is.... way to stand up and be proud Smokey, this was shown in 2007, but it is even more relevent today.
There arent enough words to exspess the awesomeness of this man words here. this is good stuff.
Powerful statements that I totally agree with. I do not refer to myself as african american. I am a black american. I am black and I am proud.
My brother threw down, I will make sure all in my circle get to experience the wealth of knowledge he shared.
Gil
Excellent job by Mr.Robinson.
Yes, it is possible to be proud to be Black & a proud American.
If any of you don't think Smokey knows what he is talking about go back to the 60's where he was part of the movement to acknowledge civil rights for blacks in America. He not only "gets it" he is a role model. The man uses his poetry as a bridge to peace and love.
I have never seen this video, but I felt a pride not felt in a long time. Right on, Smokey, and thank you for sharing this vido. You know I made it a favorite
I agree with Smokey's message 100%
This is what should be on the news...for ALL Americans to see/listen/absorb...
man, this is one of the best i have heard so far to date.
out of all the poems ive seen on youtube shihan is deep but this guy is untouchable he breaks down all the facts of being black, etc this poem is actually the best ive heard i dunno what else to say about it
EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT and EXCELLENT!!!! Smokey Robinson spoke with conviction----preach my brotha!!!
He has made a very valid point about not going back because Black Americans have fought too hard and too long to make it this way. Respect to the poet.
I love Smokey for this poem! I agree with 80% of this! It is real good. FAVORITE!!!
I love this...I am ashamed to say I just seen this for the 1st time last year!!!
Wow, I knew Mr Robinson was deep because of his music but this "poem"is really profound. Bravo!!
Thanks Smokey,
YOU SPOKE WITH A LOT OF WISDOM THERE. You are what God made you and he doesn't make mistakes. I wish everyone had a chance to see this. Black , white you name then. Great job Smokey. For the record I'm white and the last time I looked at a box of crayon there was a white one. We are all colored people. God looks at our hearts not our skin color. If we all looked the same, did the same, eat the same and so on. Wouldn't this world be boring.
Spread the word Smokey!! I'M LUVIN IT!!
Smokey is amazing and I credit him for telling other black people that it doesn't matter what people call you, but what you call yourself.
Ace video. Definitely.
Excellently articulated!
Articulated excellently!
Out of the ones I've heard, this is the best.
I am inspired by this poem. It is rare now a day to see people being proud to be a product of our wonderful country and its ability to allow us to have ethnic identities. Excellent Poem!
simply beautiful! It makes you fall in in love with his powerful words, even if ur not black! lol
Damn Mr. Robinson put it down! & he spoke nothing but the truth!!
I'm Black & I'm PROUD! Hell Yes!lol
That was off the hook. AMEN
We all come from Africa. My DNA says Ethiopia to Middle East to Scandinavia to Scotland. I am none of those. I'm American! Thank you Smokey!
Mr. Robinson expresses much of my thinking, more on various ideas than I have ever seen in one place, before. Great appreciation to him. We differ on one point. If I could find another place to complete the remaining time of my long life, and I've traveled elsewhere, as well I'd go there to die. I am thoroughly disillusioned with the ignorance that still controls us.I'll check after Nov 4, 2008
Wow! I didn't know that Smoky had that in him! All I can say is WOW!
Thats exacty how I've always feel, and always have. awesome video.
This poem is the Truth people need 2 really listen 2 wat he is saying so they can learn somethin
Race has no color...are we not all a part of the..
human race.. luv Smokey and this poem....it's the truth...
Lovely, I like being Black, i wish we all think this way. I am from Africa, u are always wellcome home regardless of the color of your skin.
one of my favorite videos on UA-cam period!
Best episode in the history of this show.
What he says is so true and goes through marrow and bone. As a white, european woman, I am ashamed of all white people who are racists when we should be listening to all black people for they are the elders in our society.
Best poem I have heard in a while
Peace love & happiness! Love being black!!!
My pleasure. I actually forgot that I taped it and when I saw that I did I wanted to share despite the not so great quality. :-)
I am African and I think he is right.
I wouldn't feel offended if a Black American calls him/herself African, but to me, it only makes more sense for Black Americans to be called black Americans. It's not like todays Black Americans have any cultural ties with Africa. Be black and be proud.
Wow! Deep! The voice of experience and skills!
WOW I'm a believer Smokey..Get your own TV Show We Need THis!!
Saw (and saved) this video a coupla yrs ago; awesome. I AM a Black American.
Well alright Smokey!! I didn't know he could flow like that!!
I hope I have at least one drop of black! Great Smokey! Love you!
I love being Black too! Great job Smokey.
So truth because I am proud to be a Black American thank you Smokey Robinson.
Good ol' Smokey Robinson. Great poem by a great Musician.
While I am not a black woman, I have many friends who just happen to be black, and I have to say that this poem has really touched my heart. It has also addressed many of the same conversations I have had with my friends, who tease me about not really being a "white" woman, because I am mostly PINK!
At first I thought this would be a typical "victimology" poem about how much slavery sucked, but it ends up making a hell of a lot of sense. Bravo, Smokey!
i never heard smokey talk like this! lmao
i love it!!!!!!!
he was speaking some truth!
For the person who asked who wrote this for Smokey, you must be joking or extremely stupid. Smokey grew up in/around the hardest parts of Detroit and around some of the hardest gangsters. Furthermore, he has a music catalog of over two hundred songs he has written for himself, and every artist on any Motown label, and he's written songs that have appeared on many gospel/spiritual albums/CD's.
great piece by Smokey... and its all true
and there's no cynicism in that poem... in fact... cynicism is the death of success
The focus of Smokey's poem was not slavery, and he was not trying to cause a debate about whether black folk have had more difficulty in history than Jews or anyone else. He was simply (and logically) explaining why he prefers being called a Black American rather than an African American.
Smokey!!!!! I love being black!!
I love it! I dig that a real black star said it too! I bet some of these "endorsed" black stars and athletes would not "risk" something to broadcast that message. Need not mention no names. It's on Smokey!!
I love what Smokey Robinson has to say. I'm glad someone spoke up.
I understand now why Smokey has all those hit records. He has an intelligent mind.
I agree with you smokie. I am a Proud Black American. Never been there dont want to go there and wouldnt be excepted there if I went. Ran into them in Germany and was told I am not black, they are the true blacks. Met a young lady who told me her parents did not allow her to date Black Americans. Why did I get to vote on what I want to be called.
Mother Africa, that is where we ALL came from, folks. From Smokey's mouth to God's ear, when my white white white African-European parents struggled in the American civil rights movement in Dallas in the 1960s, it wasn't for there to be division and hatred among us 40 years later. My mother, God bless her soul, died recently disappointed and embittered because she was called Ugly White Woman to her face by black youth in her old age.
Great job and well said Smokey.
BEAUTIFUL: Content, Sentiments, and Delivery
I am glad I am not the only one who sees something wrong with these assortment labels....They amount to nothing but an apology. Don't apologize to me. I love who I am....I am a Black Woman.
Love it!!! Mr. Smokey Robinson speaking nothing but the Truth:-)
I loved this video!!!! I am Black. Black!!
Well said my brother
LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT !
DEEP...TRUE...AND GREAT...nuff SAID!!!...
Salute!! I'm Black & So Very Proud to be Black! Beautiful Black American!
Speak on it Smokey! Represent! Love it Brotha!!
The only thing you can say is, Wow! The best one I heard
Wow that was just so cool! Smokey has always been an legend in my life. My apologies to cvillegas775 for getting on my high horse before watching this. I've been bummed about the Rev Write, his words and being associated w/ Obama, etc.; but hearing this guy makes so much sense! It is not about black and white, it is about realising that no matter what our perceptions they both involve all colours, perfectly.
A colour blind society is the most colourful.
You agree 80%, I agree with Smokey 100%!
much love smokey. Say it loud. I'm Black and i'm Proud
Powerful ...true ... moving .....
wow . Smokey that was amazing
Smokey is Gangsta!!! Right on!
Thank you Smokey. He said it all!
As a black American of African decent, I have no desire to spit on my ancestors graves. If fact my African ancestry is kept alive by my attention to the links to my African ancestry.
However, to deny my black American identity is to deny 90% of what has mad me what I am today. My family has been here for over 300 years. My identity is more American than African. I did not make this so but it is fact!
Smokey always says it best.
in a sense African American has the term 'america' in it and in the word black we are a people of our own culture. he preaches what he preaches and holds a very valid point on his argument. he doesn't switch and he doesn't disregard history as he mentions adam and eve alond with the black lineage of history.
dope; I never thought I would hear smooove Smokey use curse words.
Smokey!!!!!
You go Smokey...My Black brother...I ain't mad at cha....Well said..
WW
that's why he mentioned he's not african american, he is black. he's proud to be black.
This is awesome!!!! Favorited :)
I know why he's called Smokey, cos this is FIRE!!!!
"There's a movement by Black folks in this Country, to dis-identify with their racial heritage ... Raven Symone" - Dr Umar Johnson
Much love to you Smokey ....
Thank you Smokey. So well said.
i love this smokey!
Smokey has echoed my feelings exactly.
TEACH BROTHER!
Totally agree with you, including what you said about the Beverly Hillbillies bit...