I'd say "hypocrisy" in this case is a superficial oversimplification. Doing the opposite of what you say is how most people view hypocrisy. But in the case of how Kendrick and Lecrae are presenting it as "I'm not perfect, but I'm striving to become better and do better by adhering to specific principles." There issue is people who ACTIVELY and consistently work against what they view as the "the right way". A perfect example is when Lecrae describes "the killer who kills the innocent with no remorse." There lies the actual problem they have. Their issue isn't imperfect people, their issue is what they view as actual agents of evil. I wish people wouldn't jump to the conclusion of calling people hypocrites so often. These days it seems to be more of a reflection of their lack of understanding than an instance of true hypocrisy.
Very well said. If you’re Christian, you can also point to the teachings of Jesus. When the adulterous women was about to be executed he condemned her accusers for being willing to kill for what they themselves did. We should all live below our ideals if we’re striving for growth. The hypocrites were the political and religious leaders who preached and profited from teaching and enforcing the law while breaking it themselves in secret.
yeah i dont know if you actually watched the whole video cause yeah the title is oversimplified, which is the point, he goes into detail for like 20minutes further explaining what he means. He's not rushing to call Kendrick or Lacrae hypocrites, rather acknowledging and explaining why Kendrick and Lacrae call themselves and admit to being hypocrites while working on themselves to be better
I'd put good money on the fact that 90% of Drake fans wouldn't be able to finish reading your comment, and if they did there's a very low chance they'd understand it lol
In the same week we got one white music reviewer showing how much he's learning the culture and another counting the amount of times the n word showed up in a song. What a time to live in.
@DerEinzigSohn Matt from What's The Dirt. Dude recorded an Apology to another UA-cam Channel The Company Man this Morning for some disrespectful remarks he made due to a response Video Justin from The Company Man made regarding What's The Dirt "Family Matters" Breakdown Analysis Video. If you haven't heard about it, it's all a corner of the Internet has spoken on for the past WEEK. Muthafuckas are popping out of nowhere to trash What's The Dirt. Go to that Video and read the Comments if you don't want to waste almost 2 1/2 hrs of Drake glazing by this guy. Absolutely ridiculous the shit he was saying in that Video.
@DerEinzigSohnWhat's The Dirt. This mf found a way to mine 2 and a half hours worth of material out of Family Matters. That song's lyrics are just so surface-level. It had him counting the number of n-words and attempting to give some deep meaning to it. Made him really come across as a white guy trying to insert himself into hip-hop culture, cause that's unfortunately what he is, or at least what he became over time
Kendrick👑Lamar is on his Prince vibe: Prince shifted to only working with artists who owned their MASTERS😮. Kendrick called out 2 ARTISTS who are owners. Lecrae & Dee-1 are both INDEPENDENT🤷ARTISTS. They own their masters💵. They own their publishing🎶. They can drop WHENEVER THEY WANT to🤯..!
As a massive Prince fan, it is clear to me that Kendrick idolizes Prince. Even the music has many Prince musical elements. Every album has songs with a Prince feel. Even his vocal work. Kendrick sounds very much like Prince on the song “Crown” and several others. Especially on TPAB, “U”. Bilal, who is also a major Prince fan sings like Prince on “These Walls” and others on the album. We also know that Tupac was a huge Prince fan also.
AVAA, professor! Appreciated the section on how voodoo is (mis)represented to weaponize white supremacy. I believe the line about purity blood is in reference to an interpretation of Isaiah 64:6 that is common in Evangelical spaces. “We are all an unclean thing, our righteousness is as filthy rags” is often interpreted to have menstrual rags as the vehicle of that simile. Doesn’t take away the cringe, but Lecrae is probably trying to signal the in-crowd as “a man who knows his Bible” more than intentionally denigrating women’s periods- that tidbit of sexism is just baked into the text.
I’m reminded of something Dalinar Kholin said in Oathbringer - “sometimes a hypocrite is only a man in the process of changing.” Maybe hypocrisy isn’t the worst thing ever, maybe it’s just a sign that you’re…. _between_
Critical to consider if there is motion in one direction or the other. In that case, its the change that makes it not the worst thing. We are all between a better and worse version of ourselves at all times... but what diresction are we headed? Or are we even moving?
❤ You grasshopper have become the Praying Mantis…. Until each of us can deal with the Drake/Industry within each of us, we will always miss the point and think we are somehow better than others, forever willingly in our ignorance as a way of avoid from looking into the mirror
Guess who’s going down, guess who’s going to jail Guess who’s going to jail tonight? Guess who’s going to jail tonight, tonight, tonight Guess who’s going to jail tonight. God gone post my bail tonight.
Its worth mentioning that Christianity is not originally or solely the religion of the enslaver or the white man. Ethiopian Orthodox Christians historically and currently exist. And all the way back in the fourth century you have Gregory of Nyssa saying slavery is incompatible with christianity two years in a row, on the biggest sermons of the year (pascha). It became much less prevalent then in Byzantium that it shocked the Turks who took it as a fact of life. It's true catholics went the other way in the medieval period and protestantism came from whites in northern europe and they did horrible things, but it's important to know that it was always a lot and never all, some people all along the way were faithful christians, and it's the only religion in world history to abolish slavery, multiple times, using scripture, and enforcing that change on the world at large. So calling it the religion of the enslaver can miss this context. As you know, we are all made in God's image, and Christ died for all of humanity. :)
Hey professor first time commenting, I don’t know if anyone else pointed it out. When Lecrae says “My good deeds are like some period blood stains on a dirty rug” it’s more of a direct reference to Isaiah 64:6. How our good deeds are like filthy rags. It’s a way of doubling down on what he had said a few verses earlier “I deserve death along with these liars and hypocrites”. Then points out the “liars and hypocrites” but then stating “who am I to judge”. Following with the Period blood stains on a dirty rug verse. Lecrae is fundamentally one of the Faces for CHH, paving the way for now a thriving and awesome genre in CHH. In my point of view Lecrae is just saying Yes I’ve paved a way, I’ve done so and so good works but at the end it’s all tainted and dirty and all the years of songs and basically anything he’s ever done is worthless and the best thing he could offer is what he stated in the next verse the love of Jesus. I think you kinda skipped over that verse because the problem you stated in regards of the “gender inequality” maybe being blinded by the voodo line aswell but he was building up to basically say “I am nothing, Jesus is everything” in his own way. I just think it’s something you glossed over and i mean we were going verse by verse but i just feel like you missed something vitally important there with that statement. Just wanted to say my peace on that, Love the videos Professor Hope you have an awesome time with your Son and that your soon to be Birthday is spent well with those you love. Godbless 🙏
I was just thinking about this yesterday. Even though they're referencing god I believe that Lecrae is using the death/resurrection of Christ as a metaphor for modern hiphop and kdot's feelings are more representive of Jesus flipping tables bc the leaders desecrated the church (which is also hiphop in kendricks case)
The whole point is to ask us all to be self reflective and keep a standard but also being forgiving. No one is perfect. But admitting something is true doesn't make it correct.
Lecrae's verse on his song "Restored" also grapples with his imperfections and dealing with the judgements of the evangelical community after speaking out following the George Floyd saga. Had the opportunity to see him in concert last year. He is part of the first generation of Christian rappers who had the skill/production quality to match their secular counterparts. Dude is a multi-Grammy winner and has collaborated with more than a few mainstream rappers. Also Howard and Hampton are Division I schools, they are just in the FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) second tier of DI as opposed to the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision). And yes the late Pat Robertson argued that Haiti suffered the earthquake in 2010 because they made a deal with the devil to overthrow their slave masters lol
I used to be a huge lecrae fan when I was a 14 year old Christian Around the time I snapped out of literally believing all of the dogma I was indoctrinated into as a kid I stopped listening to him because I associated my religious trauma with those church concerts we would go to to see him and Andy Mineo (who I was never a fan of) But, I know my 14 year old self. I know I had good taste in hip hop. Yeezus was my favorite album, faces by Mac miller was heavy in my rotation back then and I remember being really big into MF doom when I was 15 So I knew there must have been something there with lecrae, some actual talent that was devoid of the religious stuff So I decided to go back to the album he was touring that year yesterday, and man. There’s some great stuff on there Fear is a really great song by lecrae to anyone reading this, there’s some corny parts sure but you can tell he is talented beyond his Christian peers.
Thank you Prof, as a dude who doesnt Jesus much and a mild atheist,I was struggling to absorb Lecrae's words but you helped a lot. And I am an African so what they call voodoo is what people partake seriously in so its hard to connect with people who use a colonialist tool to invalidate my people's belief.
Ironically enough you're doing the very thing you claim Lecrae is doing which is invalidating his faith based on bad information. Africa had Christianity long before colonization and actively tried to keep the faith from slaves because they knew its power. (They weren't wrong btw)
I'm 67 years old and this rap movement or revapping is very exciting to me. I look forward to every for a new release from any of the rapper expecially the boggie man 😊 Kendrick. Oh my LL Cool J please 😮 Im gasping for words🫨🤯🥳go, go Big🤠💃🏽
This was amazing. I also enjoyed the vooodoo rant. I am a 45yo African American man and I consider myself pretty woke, but I never heard the origin of voodoo. Thanks for your thoughtful breakdowns of this often underestimated art form!
I think this Kendrick’s “active hypocrisy”can be viewed between his Mr moral album and this beef. Kendrick called out Drake for abusing woman yet he gave Kodak black a chance to rap in his Mr moral album and a lot of ppl called out Kendrick for that hypocrisy. But what not many ppl know,(yet you can easily google it and learn) is that Kodak did a lot of charity work and give positive impact on his community too. Now this is based on every information to be true. But here lies the active hypocrisy. Even while in the beef, Kendrick mentioned love to Drake countless times in every disstracks he made. Kendrick is not calling Drake and other ppl as evil. Because he understands the duality of humanity. The good and evil both lives within each ppl and it’s a pendulum. This is the hypocrisy Kendrick has. He is shedding a light on the dark side of humanity. Calling ppl to see reality. But hoping and giving second chances to each and every light of humanity too. Kendrick gave a chance to Kodak to redeem himself. And he gave the same thing to Drake. The hidden message in his disstrack are “you need to learn from your mistakes and change your ways or it will kill you” It was all “tough love” for him. I think Kendrick is the embodiment of “hate the sins, not the sinner” But this is all my perspective and thoughts.
He is fake tough though he is not a gangster at all and that's fine but by putting on the mask in his music opens him up to honest criticism. Kdot is not tough we all know that
@@MTMRStarstormbut Lacrea acknowledges Kendrick’s toughness and ties to people who will put on for him multiple times when he talks about KDot. It feels like common knowledge at this point that he’s not a “tough guy” in the vernacular, but he is culturally.
I disagree with the Vodoo line ….i don’t think he’s literally attacking Kodak black…..but when paired with the long standing knowledge of fake tough guy rappers and their narratives in the industry , I thought he was using it as a metaphor for putting the masses into a trance to accept the commercial elements of the “culture”. It’s like how in the old jazz songs people would ask what kind of voodoo you do to me…it’s a metaphor!! I’d say it’s a rebuttal against the party culture which which focuses on the pleasures of now and not worrying about God. Lacrae went through a painful faith journey within white evangelical circles who shunned him when he spoke about black issues and white supremacy. He lost MOST of his fan base due to calling OUT white supremacy within the current American church. I encourage you to do a deep dive on his albums. You may enjoy it ‼️
I agree with your points of view. I do want to add we can change our metaphors to not alienate people. I remember a time when no homo was a metaphor. It did not make it ok.
I don’t think LeCrae is using VooDoo as a pejorative. I think it’s more of a catch all for the popularization of witchcraft, particularly from African nations, in the black community
I think this is probably the best representation of Christian beliefs and a good response to Kendrick. Lecrae responded so artistically and thematically. Humility and growth, acknowledgement of how he got where he is and where he came from. It felt like a musical turning of the other cheek. He talked about where he came from and who hurt him. Expressed his desire for vengeance but also how he's unworthy to judge others
The Voodoo line is such an American and religious rhetoric, it proves we all are hypocrites. I hope Lacrea can do more research on the culture Black spirituality. Saddest part of the line is ritual in voodoo is not far removed from the ritual done in the Bible. PRAY FOR HAITI
I really appreciate you sharing the anecdote about your pious friend and what he said that made such an impact on you. Beautiful. Also, thanks for the history lesson on the word 'voodoo' (or is it 'Vodou'?). I'll have to educate myself on that.
Obsessed with this channel and these breakdowns. please keep em' coming. Such a refreshing take from the constant "music critic" atmosphere that tends to be pretty superficial. No shade to that, I understand that we don't always have 30-60mins to devote to one song but it is really nice to be able to do do a deep dive every now and then with someone as thoughtful and self-aware as you. I've been craving this content for years and I'm so happy to have found it. Alright, that's enough knob slobbing for one comment. Thanks again! Peace.
Thanks for talking about Voudou I am African (🇿🇦) and many yim s our beliefs and religion are demonized even by our own. Some actually believe we have many gods or that we "worship" ancestors (or tress mountains rivers oceans 😔). It's so refreshing to have an outside perspective. A religious Christian who can see our similarities. Enjoyed the video! Love to you and the family (especially the baby) 😄
As a Christian i believe all people can worship or not worship any God and ways of life to what they want to believe. In regards to the Voodoo line, get but disagree with your concerns. Voodoo is a serious religion. But like all religions we arevlooking to find the true God and the true way. A flaw we make is we tie religions to people groups not effectivity of if it's true and connects us to God for real.
Thank you so much for this. I really appreciate the knowledge you are sharing. I didn’t know how deep the hate towards Haitians went historically and now or about voodoo. I wasn’t able to begin to comprehend and accept the realities of racism in my heart (my head understood the facts and the logic of it) until I deconstructed Christianity. That leaves me with an uncomfortable juxtaposition of beliefs. I don’t know how to hold all the opposing/ contrasting elements of it.
Thanks as always Prof for sharing! So good! As an Old School pioneer in CHH (Christian Hip Hop) I’m glad to see our evolution as a sub-genre and am proud of both Lecrae and Dee-1 serving the HipHop Community with love & humility. Good call on the voodoo line. I don’t think Crea meant it in a vicious way but your point helps because ignorance is the breeding ground for contempt. Again, thanks! Insightful as always ❤
Another great video and breakdown. I’m not sure if it was intentional, there is a chance Lecrae has an uninformed view on voodoo as “evil”. But I liked the contrast between him debasing these certain people (fake tough rappers, fake deep gurus) and then voodoo before stating that he can’t judge, because in his belief system, he really is no better than them. There are definitely insights in the song to be gathered both by just anybody and specifically by Christians. And I think there are certainly insights to either be strengthened or gained anew from this breakdown. AVAA
Thank you for being a voice finally addressing the relationship between Christianity and slavery. The fact this gets glossed over / ignored so much has been driving me bonkers lately. I felt the exact same way you did, I was enjoying the song until this line came up
It’s also Christianity that helped start the chain reaction of slavery being made illegal around the world, in which Europe and America were the first to make it illegal. Slavery was rampant around the world in all races for thousands of years before the slavery in America. So both should be recognized. One is the unbiblical misuse of Christianity for control, one is the proper Christianity that promotes freedom.
@@Will-sv2hl oh wow, you want me to pat Christianity on the back for slightly rectifying a horrible thing perpetuated by Christianity? You've lost the plot man. Most Black people in the US are only Christian because their ancestors were FORCED to be Christian by slave masters. I'm not talking about Christians doing a bad thing here, they literally used Christianity as a mechanism of enslavement and wether or not some other Christians got rid of it is pretty irrelevant. The US was run by and populated by Christians at the time, who else do you think was going to get rid of slavery here? Oh also, after slavery went away a pretty famous group of Christians fought to ensure black people in this country were second class citizens. Their name starts with 3 ks.
It’s also Christianity that helped start the chain reaction of slavery being made illegal around the world, in which Europe and America were the first to make it illegal. Slavery was rampant around the world in all races for thousands of years before the slavery in America. So both should be recognized.
@@Will-sv2hl no they shouldn't be recognized for slightly rectifying something they used their religion to justify. It wasn't just Christians doing bad things either, they forced black people in bondage to abandon their faiths and submit to one being taught to them specifically to subjugate them. Also if we want to make sure not to leave things out please don't leave put the fact a Christian group famous for wearing hoods and having 3 Ks in their name helped ensure black people were made second class citizens after they were freed.
@@marcananmh hmmm. I believe the democrat party also started the KKK. What’s the party of Christianity today? Let’s not forget slavery was already occurring in Africa by other Africans. Deciding to not recognize the importance of America being the first to make slavery illegal is childish. This isn’t negating the fact of slavery in America or saying it doesn’t matter. Despite the tragedy of slavery in America and everywhere else in the world for thousands of years, it is still a pivotal moment in world history making slavery illegal, because nobody else had done it, and it was still going on all over the world. Slavery still exists in Africa today.
I personally don't believe Lacrae was badmouthing the people who practice voodoo. He was referring to hypocrisy of pushing those beliefs on others while attacking anothers beliefs.
I’m a former christian and current atheist. (My dad is also a pastor- of the West African, cerebral pentecostal variety). One thing that always bothered me about our religious rhetoric was the blatant antiblackness, specifically the demonization (literally) of indigenous black spirituality. Never sat right with me. I respect Lecrae, but I stopped the song after I heard that very line. I’ll try again another time, because he does have great things to say. But yeah that disturbed my spirit, as they say.
@@dahliaherrod4301 Yes, I think that’s also a problem.. However, your worldview differs fundamentally from mine, so my reply likely won’t resonate with you. I’ll agree to disagree. Thank you for taking time to engage with me and I wish you well 🖤
@@Zaza_Grady Hey I appreciate you keeping it respectful as I definitely intended my comment to be respectful. I understand the frustration as far as spirituality goes because Lord knows I'm constantly having to defend my faith. I can only imagine the hell you go through as a black atheist. I would encourage you to finish the song. I respect the professor's takes, but I think his regard and affinity for Haiti blinded him to any other possibility other than racism or anti-voodoo. Of course, Lecrae is the only one who truly knows what he meant by that line. The beauty of music is that its open to interpretation and the takeaways can all be good. I hope you have a blessed day!
Wait, I really want to under this take. Is Voodoo not the same as witchcraft? I think it’d be hard to convince a Christian that witchcraft is not evil.
As a Christian he SHOULD think of voodoo as evil. Christianity does not accept all religious practices, it condems what is condemned in the Bible. Witchcraft of any shape or form is comdemned in the Bible. You don't have to agree if you're not Christian, but you can't tell HIM what to beliebe 😉
AVAA as always professor, but i believe you are conflating Lecrae's use of the word "vodou" with colonizer's usual pejorative use of the word. Yes, vodou is valid as a religion but in the eyes of Christianity, it's practices are still very pagan & witchcraft [the act of using natural things and pray created by God to derive supernatural power] by the very definition. The funny thing about paganism and witchcraft is that to the one who believes it, it is simply storied tradition and culture. On top of this, when it comes to vodou or any other religious practice that uses witchcraft, Black culture actually has rather tumultuous relationship with it because of one thing: many of us, especially those down in the American South [which is where Lecrae is from] believe it to be REAL. Depending what part of the South you are in, vodou, Witchcraft, and new age spirituality are interchangeable term for the same thing and aren't just a political talking points or cultural expression and superstition. Vodou is a concrete fact of life. You are taught that there is danger in crossing one that practices the old ways as there is a real and present power behind them. Many other cultures around the world hold reverence/fear for their own old ways. Whether it be the Irish [who still watch what they say around hills and never step in faerie circles], to the Ethiopian church owhich still actively combats sorcerer's and practices exorcisms] Understand that hatred for vodou as a religion may seem to overlap with xenophobic racist rhetoric, but do not mistake it for the distrust of someone who actually has lived around it or been affected by it. That being said, Eckhart Tolle is a new age spiritualist [speaking generally]. He may reference scriptural truths in his teachings but overall teaches a doctrine that seeks power thru oneself outside of the Christian God, which is witchcraft by Christian standards. Ergo, according to a Black Southern Christian: Tolle = New Age Sp. = Witchcraft = Vodou I know people are gonna this pick apart when I say in it, but this is bigger than White Supremacy [which is also a real, evil, and twisted power structure that is pervasive thru out American history if not the World's history, affecting us everyday from our laws to basic customs, and language.] TL;DR: When black southern person says vodou / voodoo / hoodoo, it is shorthand for magic that is real and dangerous. Sincerely, CW A 6th Gen Black Christian from the South
avaa! Great analysis as always, and much respect to you for defending oppressed minority religions! It shows that you are actually taking the teachings of your faith seriously, and not playing "morality dress up". I have to be reminded that religion (especially Christianity unfortunately) is not always a hateful, or violent force in the world, and that it is just as complex and nuanced as people are. Btw, Foreign Man in the Foreign Land has a great video on Voodoo and Obeia that's definitely worth checking out for anyone who hasn't! ❤
Reading “The Farming of Bones” by Edwidge Danticat for my Global Literatures class which I just got out of to now watch this video, touching on similar topics within Haiti. What a perfect coincidence to further my education. AVAA
The period blood reference was the worst to me. It made me remember my issues with religion. Teaching women that what comes from us is disgusting is just not cool. It makes us feel less than and insecure. It’s simply the body doing the beautiful thing the body always does. Yet your analysis was refreshing including the “voodoo” line. No judgment for me as well, we are all on our own paths 🫶🏾
The reference is related to scripture which has a similar reference about our "good acts" being dirty (in the reference to woman's cycle soiling her clothing). It is considered unclean in that regard. I.e. it is not truly "good" as that is in our estimation. We can never be good enough to call ourselves truly "good" or doing truly "good" deeds.
@@neotheboxer Hey! I know what the reference is, I don’t agree with that scripture for the reasons I stated above also the obsession with never being good enough while it simultaneously being the exact purpose of a Christian’s life to be like Christ but they never will no matter how hard they try? It creates a never ending insecurity in one’s own divine purpose as well. Nope, I simply don’t agree with any of it.
It's about being humble. Our ways are primitive to the Almighty. We do the best we can but don't be prideful of what you accomplish. The point is to aspire to be better but we're only human.@@peacockmamatv
@@nishadow7813 I get the point, I don’t agree with it. I used to have this perspective. Yet after my own growth and research I simply see this as self-hating, insecure rhetoric that we are taught to believe. Humility isn’t that, it’s simply the balance where arrogance is on one end of the scale and insecurity is on the other.
@@peacockmamatv I understand. A lot of people don't agree and that's fine. Everyone has free will to choose what they believe in and what they don't. 🙂
AVVA- It is difficult for the younger audience (younger is meant to be developmental so not necessarily age) to understand the nuances and the complexity of systemic racism. Those who offer an objective view that acknowledges your implicit bias and privilege. AVVA
Would be curious to see a video detailing your faith as a Christian, and how that influences your life/actions; Particularly as it relates to you as a professor and leftist.
Prof, what you're doing is dope. But please, don't conflate what Lecrae is doing here with what's going on politically. Lecrae isn't running with them folks. He's also a committed Christian. By definition we confess Christ as the only way to God and salvation. He's not making a political statement, but a theological one. As an Orthodox Christian, I'd also argue that Christianity isn't "just" the slave master's religion. Christianity is bigger and older than the West and cattle slavery, even though Western Christianity is the most visble and vocal. There's something ironic about that, I think. Again, I think your analysis is super dope. I'll be watching more of your videos. God bless, brother.
The way you process and lay out information reminds me of other language teachers in my life. Namely my grandpa who taught English at Calvin College and my father who is now a pastor but taught English for years in mission schools while I grew up. Thanks for the content my man!
Being "nobody to judge" is something people usually say to be impartial about something they don't fully have an opinion for, or just don't wanna show it. Being "nobody to judge" for a christian is more about the "nobody" part than the "judge" one. If you think that recognizing you're the worst sinner of all, and you need a savior is something controversial in christianity, you didn't got it. I'm nobody to judge cause I was a sinner just like any other, but Christ made me somebody so I could show his love and truth. When you understand this, you understand that the problem is the same to everybody, and you should treat everyone equally. Thats what the "enslavers" religion says. (Idk, it doesn't seem very enslavy to me).
22:00 I understand your point on voodoo and I respect that. As you mentioned he was phrasing a description from a Christian point of view, and Christianity is exclusive. Thank you for sharing on the complexity of voodoo (cant spell it). As a west african born in Italy and living in the UK, voodoo to me was solely witchcrafts. Thank you for broadening my understanding
FBA and that word voodoo really has little to do with the culture of voondoon or however it should be spilled. We do not traditionally use it as what it means. Non Black Americans have an entirely different otherizing of it. We do not... and I repeat, DO NOT, use that word the same way as the machine of white supremacy. It's an unfortunate ignorance, but I disagree with the affront. But I do correct people when they discuss voodoo, and I'm a FIRM believer in the redemptive work of the cross and Christ's resurrection.
14:05 minor correction: systemic (relating to systems), not systematic (done according to a fixed plan). It's a classic mistake that once you know, it's fun to realize how often you may have done it.
AVAA thank you for pointing out the voodoo/vodou line and discussing that further. I don't practice it but I am always put off by the negative connotation that is made in American media including hip hop music.
Your "Using Voodoo as a pejorative is white supremacy" rant is simply false, Skye. I'm happy to discuss it with you if you care to. We could livestream it or prerecord it. Go 'head on witchyo nice back yard, tho.
AVAA - I grew up fundamentalist Christian and this music conversation is compelling to my now secular/agnostic self. I appreciate the shout outs to Justin Hunt and Rob Markman. Instant subbed to them as I can't say I've seen their stuff. I don't follow music much but I have been interested in expanding the commentators I pay attention to - dip in and out of your channel given my life's seasons and whenever I have free mental space to vibe. I appreciate the work you do and how you carry yourself.
Congrats to all these men on their successes: Kendrick, LeCrae, Dee-1. I am not familiar w/LaCrae and Dee-1s work, but thanks to Kendrick, the world is now listening.
Thank you for defending Voodoo and the Haitians. I love your channel because I always learn something new. As a Haitian, it was great to learn more about Haiti.
Great analysis, though I disagree with some points, I thought he had some really great things to say, and I’m glad he took the time to make this and share it. I think his work adds to and helps continue the participatory feel about hip hop. Thanks!
Hi, just found your podcast. Love the break down. And learned about Dee-1 Song, and about Voodoo. Born & grew up in Kingston Jamaica and Voodoo is part of the culture there. I do not know anything really about the religion. But people make it this scary thing, and that's not cool. So thank you. I just subscribed and will watch that analysis of "the thief next to Jesus" by cop, you recommended.👍
Empathy is imagining what someone is feeling. It's objective sympathy. A loving act. Imagination is a powerful tool for healing. I understand when You say you can't imagine what he feels like But You can. Emotional intelligence is something we are all learning . You've never been crucified but you have been in other ways. You can imagine what jesus felt like. and actually feel it. Your brain actually doesn't feel a difference. I know this because I was forced by my life circumstances to be more emotionally intelligent than I ever imagined I could be . I know you can verify what I've said. I am Haitian and thank youuu. I enjoy youur channel.
One big reason I left religion is because of hypocrisy. I could accept people messing up, but when you hear people constantly gossiping about others and the mindset of "do as I say, bot what I do", it infuriates you after a while. I respect Kendrick and Lecrae because they're aware of their flaws and keep on fighting to live through Christ and do their actual best. I'll never be religious again, but I have the upmost respect for people who truly believe, accept their slip ups, and try to learn from the past.
The Bible comes from Africa. Jesus of Nazareth was a black man; therefore, it is okay to call out whatever religion from the region that oppose it truth. You are for God or for the devil, there is no in between...smile
Thank you for pointing out the Voodoo line! As someone who appreciates African spirituality, I always correct people who demean Voodoo as a witchcraft.
I'd say "hypocrisy" in this case is a superficial oversimplification.
Doing the opposite of what you say is how most people view hypocrisy. But in the case of how Kendrick and Lecrae are presenting it as "I'm not perfect, but I'm striving to become better and do better by adhering to specific principles."
There issue is people who ACTIVELY and consistently work against what they view as the "the right way". A perfect example is when Lecrae describes "the killer who kills the innocent with no remorse."
There lies the actual problem they have. Their issue isn't imperfect people, their issue is what they view as actual agents of evil.
I wish people wouldn't jump to the conclusion of calling people hypocrites so often. These days it seems to be more of a reflection of their lack of understanding than an instance of true hypocrisy.
Exactly, especially when they don't know their journeys.
Very well said. If you’re Christian, you can also point to the teachings of Jesus. When the adulterous women was about to be executed he condemned her accusers for being willing to kill for what they themselves did. We should all live below our ideals if we’re striving for growth. The hypocrites were the political and religious leaders who preached and profited from teaching and enforcing the law while breaking it themselves in secret.
yeah i dont know if you actually watched the whole video cause yeah the title is oversimplified, which is the point, he goes into detail for like 20minutes further explaining what he means. He's not rushing to call Kendrick or Lacrae hypocrites, rather acknowledging and explaining why Kendrick and Lacrae call themselves and admit to being hypocrites while working on themselves to be better
I'd put good money on the fact that 90% of Drake fans wouldn't be able to finish reading your comment, and if they did there's a very low chance they'd understand it lol
I feel like you didn't watch the video?
You're gonna have to come back around for Dee-1.
Hello there !
He snapped
What's the good parts cause I couldn't get through a lot of it. I knew he was saying something but it sounded so basic.
@@spinningbackkick6021gotta just get over that and try to understand the message
Lmao csnt even understand the basic parts?@spinningbackkick6021
In the same week we got one white music reviewer showing how much he's learning the culture and another counting the amount of times the n word showed up in a song. What a time to live in.
@DerEinzigSohn Matt from What's The Dirt. Dude recorded an Apology to another UA-cam Channel The Company Man this Morning for some disrespectful remarks he made due to a response Video Justin from The Company Man made regarding What's The Dirt "Family Matters" Breakdown Analysis Video.
If you haven't heard about it, it's all a corner of the Internet has spoken on for the past WEEK. Muthafuckas are popping out of nowhere to trash What's The Dirt. Go to that Video and read the Comments if you don't want to waste almost 2 1/2 hrs of Drake glazing by this guy. Absolutely ridiculous the shit he was saying in that Video.
@DerEinzigSohn I believe it's What's the Dirt... I may be incorrect
@DerEinzigSohnWhat's The Dirt. This mf found a way to mine 2 and a half hours worth of material out of Family Matters. That song's lyrics are just so surface-level. It had him counting the number of n-words and attempting to give some deep meaning to it. Made him really come across as a white guy trying to insert himself into hip-hop culture, cause that's unfortunately what he is, or at least what he became over time
@@CherishSweetz nah you’re right it is
I like a hypocrite that knows they are a hypocrite, that knows they are changing.
Exactly. It’s always first about self awareness.
That's called a mature and grounded human being, may we all strive to be as such.
Holy shit 💀 yall
Awareness-hypocrite charging their hypocritical ways is something i can always respect. (Working on oneself.)
Unlike the Canadian
Kendrick👑Lamar is on his Prince vibe: Prince shifted to only working with artists who owned their MASTERS😮. Kendrick called out 2 ARTISTS who are owners. Lecrae & Dee-1 are both INDEPENDENT🤷ARTISTS. They own their masters💵. They own their publishing🎶. They can drop WHENEVER THEY WANT to🤯..!
As a massive Prince fan, it is clear to me that Kendrick idolizes Prince. Even the music has many Prince musical elements. Every album has songs with a Prince feel. Even his vocal work. Kendrick sounds very much like Prince on the song “Crown” and several others. Especially on TPAB, “U”. Bilal, who is also a major Prince fan sings like Prince on “These Walls” and others on the album. We also know that Tupac was a huge Prince fan also.
@@EANDM71I was listening to TPAB today and I was like man, Prince could have wrote this groove
@@EANDM71can be a prince fan all he wants, MJ is the goat and will outlive that sanctimonious guy
@@waynewayne8419 mj fans worst then vegans at this point. Who TF named him lil bro. He still a pedo most likely.
Fog
AVAA, professor! Appreciated the section on how voodoo is (mis)represented to weaponize white supremacy. I believe the line about purity blood is in reference to an interpretation of Isaiah 64:6 that is common in Evangelical spaces. “We are all an unclean thing, our righteousness is as filthy rags” is often interpreted to have menstrual rags as the vehicle of that simile. Doesn’t take away the cringe, but Lecrae is probably trying to signal the in-crowd as “a man who knows his Bible” more than intentionally denigrating women’s periods- that tidbit of sexism is just baked into the text.
I’m reminded of something Dalinar Kholin said in Oathbringer - “sometimes a hypocrite is only a man in the process of changing.”
Maybe hypocrisy isn’t the worst thing ever, maybe it’s just a sign that you’re…. _between_
Did not expect to see Dalinar in the comments but it’s such a good line.
wowwww the crossover i never expected… journey before destination
Rereading Stormlight at the moment, never expected to see this in the comments but I’m aggressively glad that I have
Critical to consider if there is motion in one direction or the other. In that case, its the change that makes it not the worst thing. We are all between a better and worse version of ourselves at all times... but what diresction are we headed? Or are we even moving?
I've been so Cosmere-pilled recently I wasn't even shocked to see this here. Life before Death.
We are all hypocrites in a way.
How?
❤ You grasshopper have become the Praying Mantis…. Until each of us can deal with the Drake/Industry within each of us, we will always miss the point and think we are somehow better than others, forever willingly in our ignorance as a way of avoid from looking into the mirror
"I'll be honest, WE ALL LIARS" lol
precisely.
@@MichaelPayne-qn8bbhave you never contradicted yourself?
I'll be honest, we all liars
And that ironically… was the truth.
Guess who’s going down, guess who’s going to jail
Guess who’s going to jail tonight? Guess who’s going to jail tonight, tonight, tonight
Guess who’s going to jail tonight.
God gone post my bail tonight.
IM PULLED OVER, AND I GOT PRIORS
Fact!!!
Damn straight.
Its worth mentioning that Christianity is not originally or solely the religion of the enslaver or the white man. Ethiopian Orthodox Christians historically and currently exist. And all the way back in the fourth century you have Gregory of Nyssa saying slavery is incompatible with christianity two years in a row, on the biggest sermons of the year (pascha). It became much less prevalent then in Byzantium that it shocked the Turks who took it as a fact of life. It's true catholics went the other way in the medieval period and protestantism came from whites in northern europe and they did horrible things, but it's important to know that it was always a lot and never all, some people all along the way were faithful christians, and it's the only religion in world history to abolish slavery, multiple times, using scripture, and enforcing that change on the world at large. So calling it the religion of the enslaver can miss this context. As you know, we are all made in God's image, and Christ died for all of humanity. :)
Like this comment a thousand times!
Yup
This person Orthodoxes
Facts ❤❤❤❤
@@orthostice I am eastern orthodox yes lol
Hey professor first time commenting, I don’t know if anyone else pointed it out. When Lecrae says “My good deeds are like some period blood stains on a dirty rug” it’s more of a direct reference to Isaiah 64:6. How our good deeds are like filthy rags.
It’s a way of doubling down on what he had said a few verses earlier “I deserve death along with these liars and hypocrites”. Then points out the “liars and hypocrites” but then stating “who am I to judge”. Following with the Period blood stains on a dirty rug verse.
Lecrae is fundamentally one of the Faces for CHH, paving the way for now a thriving and awesome genre in CHH. In my point of view Lecrae is just saying Yes I’ve paved a way, I’ve done so and so good works but at the end it’s all tainted and dirty and all the years of songs and basically anything he’s ever done is worthless and the best thing he could offer is what he stated in the next verse the love of Jesus.
I think you kinda skipped over that verse because the problem you stated in regards of the “gender inequality” maybe being blinded by the voodo line aswell but he was building up to basically say “I am nothing, Jesus is everything”
in his own way.
I just think it’s something you glossed over and i mean we were going verse by verse but i just feel like you missed something vitally important there with that statement.
Just wanted to say my peace on that,
Love the videos Professor
Hope you have an awesome time with your Son and that your soon to be Birthday is spent well with those you love. Godbless 🙏
Thanks!
J Monty is far and away the best Christian Rapper. Lecrea is only known for thinking slavery was good, he's just Sam Jackson from Django. 🤣
I was just thinking about this yesterday. Even though they're referencing god I believe that Lecrae is using the death/resurrection of Christ as a metaphor for modern hiphop and kdot's feelings are more representive of Jesus flipping tables bc the leaders desecrated the church (which is also hiphop in kendricks case)
Lecrae preaching the gospel, the real resurrection
The whole point is to ask us all to be self reflective and keep a standard but also being forgiving. No one is perfect. But admitting something is true doesn't make it correct.
Thank you Professor for the brief lesson in Creole and Voodoo culture🎉
Lecrae's verse on his song "Restored" also grapples with his imperfections and dealing with the judgements of the evangelical community after speaking out following the George Floyd saga. Had the opportunity to see him in concert last year. He is part of the first generation of Christian rappers who had the skill/production quality to match their secular counterparts. Dude is a multi-Grammy winner and has collaborated with more than a few mainstream rappers.
Also Howard and Hampton are Division I schools, they are just in the FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) second tier of DI as opposed to the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision). And yes the late Pat Robertson argued that Haiti suffered the earthquake in 2010 because they made a deal with the devil to overthrow their slave masters lol
I used to be a huge lecrae fan when I was a 14 year old Christian
Around the time I snapped out of literally believing all of the dogma I was indoctrinated into as a kid I stopped listening to him because I associated my religious trauma with those church concerts we would go to to see him and Andy Mineo (who I was never a fan of)
But, I know my 14 year old self. I know I had good taste in hip hop. Yeezus was my favorite album, faces by Mac miller was heavy in my rotation back then and I remember being really big into MF doom when I was 15
So I knew there must have been something there with lecrae, some actual talent that was devoid of the religious stuff
So I decided to go back to the album he was touring that year yesterday, and man. There’s some great stuff on there
Fear is a really great song by lecrae to anyone reading this, there’s some corny parts sure but you can tell he is talented beyond his Christian peers.
@@tylermaddux5209 thanks for sharing 🙌🏾✨️
Thank you Prof, as a dude who doesnt Jesus much and a mild atheist,I was struggling to absorb Lecrae's words but you helped a lot. And I am an African so what they call voodoo is what people partake seriously in so its hard to connect with people who use a colonialist tool to invalidate my people's belief.
my only real problem with Lecrae's song is that voodoo line...
Witchcraft is witchcraft... All Africans know that
Ironically enough you're doing the very thing you claim Lecrae is doing which is invalidating his faith based on bad information. Africa had Christianity long before colonization and actively tried to keep the faith from slaves because they knew its power. (They weren't wrong btw)
i am african too and voodoo is simply witchcraft, and i can't tell u the good in it, in fact i witnessed more harm from it
@@kirachats9924 yeah talk to yourself.
I just had a conversation with my husband about vodoo and how its potrayed in the west, how its purposefully misrepresented!!
I'm 67 years old and this rap movement or revapping is very exciting to me. I look forward to every for a new release from any of the rapper expecially the boggie man 😊 Kendrick. Oh my LL Cool J please 😮 Im gasping for words🫨🤯🥳go, go Big🤠💃🏽
me too, I'm 37 and grew up loving LL, I'm hyped he's re-energized and making new music
So 🆒
This was amazing. I also enjoyed the vooodoo rant. I am a 45yo African American man and I consider myself pretty woke, but I never heard the origin of voodoo. Thanks for your thoughtful breakdowns of this often underestimated art form!
It's a religion bro not an artform
I think this Kendrick’s “active hypocrisy”can be viewed between his Mr moral album and this beef.
Kendrick called out Drake for abusing woman yet he gave Kodak black a chance to rap in his Mr moral album and a lot of ppl called out Kendrick for that hypocrisy.
But what not many ppl know,(yet you can easily google it and learn) is that Kodak did a lot of charity work and give positive impact on his community too.
Now this is based on every information to be true.
But here lies the active hypocrisy.
Even while in the beef, Kendrick mentioned love to Drake countless times in every disstracks he made.
Kendrick is not calling Drake and other ppl as evil.
Because he understands the duality of humanity.
The good and evil both lives within each ppl and it’s a pendulum.
This is the hypocrisy Kendrick has.
He is shedding a light on the dark side of humanity.
Calling ppl to see reality.
But hoping and giving second chances to each and every light of humanity too.
Kendrick gave a chance to Kodak to redeem himself.
And he gave the same thing to Drake.
The hidden message in his disstrack are “you need to learn from your mistakes and change your ways or it will kill you”
It was all “tough love” for him.
I think Kendrick is the embodiment of “hate the sins, not the sinner”
But this is all my perspective and thoughts.
Kendrick called out Drake for being a pdf. Those are not women.
I think part of the light n righteous is fueled by this part of k dot... however I think dark energy is the majority 🤷🏾♀️😮
Giving a rapist a second chance is fucked up
Will always be a fan of Professor Skye simply because of his respect for Haiti and Haitian culture. Bro is goated. - AVAA
Im glad you touched on the history of Voodoo. I did not like that bar. Much respect to Lacrae but i wasnt feeling that part calling it evil. Smh
The title is only click bait if it triggered you and you came here prepared to argue on Kendrick/Lecrae’s behalf. Other than that it’s just a title
Lmao hahaha 🤣😂🤣 yep very well said
Yea I can to argue
@@jennlynn3236cos you're so smart
Fact! I appreciate that he highlights the importance of Lecrae and Kendrick acknowledging their hypocrisy.
The Voodoo rant was ace!
Very silly to think that Lecre would publicly disrespect KDot by calling him a fake tough rapper giving the relationship they have...
He is fake tough though he is not a gangster at all and that's fine but by putting on the mask in his music opens him up to honest criticism. Kdot is not tough we all know that
@MTMRStarstorm I think everyone knows the artist who is faking, Drake whole life is a fraud so shut up fool...
Very peculiar take. Do you know him? Never have i seen him acting tough. @@MTMRStarstorm
@@MTMRStarstormbut Lacrea acknowledges Kendrick’s toughness and ties to people who will put on for him multiple times when he talks about KDot. It feels like common knowledge at this point that he’s not a “tough guy” in the vernacular, but he is culturally.
He wasn’t talking about Ken.
100% YES give us your Dee-1 analysis! TY for being here!
Now it's time for "what would prof skye would do?"
I disagree with the Vodoo line ….i don’t think he’s literally attacking Kodak black…..but when paired with the long standing knowledge of fake tough guy rappers and their narratives in the industry , I thought he was using it as a metaphor for putting the masses into a trance to accept the commercial elements of the “culture”. It’s like how in the old jazz songs people would ask what kind of voodoo you do to me…it’s a metaphor!! I’d say it’s a rebuttal against the party culture which which focuses on the pleasures of now and not worrying about God.
Lacrae went through a painful faith journey within white evangelical circles who shunned him when he spoke about black issues and white supremacy. He lost MOST of his fan base due to calling OUT white supremacy within the current American church.
I encourage you to do a deep dive on his albums. You may enjoy it ‼️
Love this!!!
I agree with your points of view. I do want to add we can change our metaphors to not alienate people. I remember a time when no homo was a metaphor. It did not make it ok.
I think the love Kendrick shows to artists should be called the K DOT stimulus package. AVAA.
Dee1 certainly names it that this am on his pod on his channel.❤
Representing GH
kendrick hasnt put anyone on. He has no love for anyone but money.
I don’t think LeCrae is using VooDoo as a pejorative. I think it’s more of a catch all for the popularization of witchcraft, particularly from African nations, in the black community
The period blood stains lines went over the professor's head unfortunately 27:38
Isaiah 64:6 iirc
I think this is probably the best representation of Christian beliefs and a good response to Kendrick. Lecrae responded so artistically and thematically. Humility and growth, acknowledgement of how he got where he is and where he came from. It felt like a musical turning of the other cheek. He talked about where he came from and who hurt him. Expressed his desire for vengeance but also how he's unworthy to judge others
Waiting patiently for this one
The Voodoo line is such an American and religious rhetoric, it proves we all are hypocrites. I hope Lacrea can do more research on the culture Black spirituality.
Saddest part of the line is ritual in voodoo is not far removed from the ritual done in the Bible. PRAY FOR HAITI
I disagree with you, but I’d like to learn if I’m wrong. How are the vodou rituals not far removed from “rituals” in the Bible?
In the Old Testament there is rituals of sacrificing animals & people for God blessing.
I really appreciate you sharing the anecdote about your pious friend and what he said that made such an impact on you. Beautiful. Also, thanks for the history lesson on the word 'voodoo' (or is it 'Vodou'?). I'll have to educate myself on that.
Obsessed with this channel and these breakdowns. please keep em' coming. Such a refreshing take from the constant "music critic" atmosphere that tends to be pretty superficial. No shade to that, I understand that we don't always have 30-60mins to devote to one song but it is really nice to be able to do do a deep dive every now and then with someone as thoughtful and self-aware as you. I've been craving this content for years and I'm so happy to have found it. Alright, that's enough knob slobbing for one comment. Thanks again! Peace.
Thanks for talking about Voudou
I am African (🇿🇦) and many yim s our beliefs and religion are demonized even by our own. Some actually believe we have many gods or that we "worship" ancestors (or tress mountains rivers oceans 😔).
It's so refreshing to have an outside perspective. A religious Christian who can see our similarities. Enjoyed the video!
Love to you and the family (especially the baby) 😄
As a Christian i believe all people can worship or not worship any God and ways of life to what they want to believe.
In regards to the Voodoo line, get but disagree with your concerns.
Voodoo is a serious religion. But like all religions we arevlooking to find the true God and the true way. A flaw we make is we tie religions to people groups not effectivity of if it's true and connects us to God for real.
The one true God has no name or face. If you think the True God belongs to only one religion you have never glimpsed the truth.
Thank you so much for this. I really appreciate the knowledge you are sharing. I didn’t know how deep the hate towards Haitians went historically and now or about voodoo.
I wasn’t able to begin to comprehend and accept the realities of racism in my heart (my head understood the facts and the logic of it) until I deconstructed Christianity. That leaves me with an uncomfortable juxtaposition of beliefs. I don’t know how to hold all the opposing/ contrasting elements of it.
What a great video! I am so glad I found this chanel!
Thanks as always Prof for sharing! So good! As an Old School pioneer in CHH (Christian Hip Hop) I’m glad to see our evolution as a sub-genre and am proud of both Lecrae and Dee-1 serving the HipHop Community with love & humility. Good call on the voodoo line. I don’t think Crea meant it in a vicious way but your point helps because ignorance is the breeding ground for contempt. Again, thanks! Insightful as always ❤
Another great video and breakdown. I’m not sure if it was intentional, there is a chance Lecrae has an uninformed view on voodoo as “evil”. But I liked the contrast between him debasing these certain people (fake tough rappers, fake deep gurus) and then voodoo before stating that he can’t judge, because in his belief system, he really is no better than them. There are definitely insights in the song to be gathered both by just anybody and specifically by Christians. And I think there are certainly insights to either be strengthened or gained anew from this breakdown. AVAA
Thank you for being a voice finally addressing the relationship between Christianity and slavery. The fact this gets glossed over / ignored so much has been driving me bonkers lately. I felt the exact same way you did, I was enjoying the song until this line came up
It’s also Christianity that helped start the chain reaction of slavery being made illegal around the world, in which Europe and America were the first to make it illegal. Slavery was rampant around the world in all races for thousands of years before the slavery in America. So both should be recognized. One is the unbiblical misuse of Christianity for control, one is the proper Christianity that promotes freedom.
@@Will-sv2hl oh wow, you want me to pat Christianity on the back for slightly rectifying a horrible thing perpetuated by Christianity? You've lost the plot man. Most Black people in the US are only Christian because their ancestors were FORCED to be Christian by slave masters. I'm not talking about Christians doing a bad thing here, they literally used Christianity as a mechanism of enslavement and wether or not some other Christians got rid of it is pretty irrelevant. The US was run by and populated by Christians at the time, who else do you think was going to get rid of slavery here?
Oh also, after slavery went away a pretty famous group of Christians fought to ensure black people in this country were second class citizens. Their name starts with 3 ks.
It’s also Christianity that helped start the chain reaction of slavery being made illegal around the world, in which Europe and America were the first to make it illegal. Slavery was rampant around the world in all races for thousands of years before the slavery in America. So both should be recognized.
@@Will-sv2hl no they shouldn't be recognized for slightly rectifying something they used their religion to justify. It wasn't just Christians doing bad things either, they forced black people in bondage to abandon their faiths and submit to one being taught to them specifically to subjugate them. Also if we want to make sure not to leave things out please don't leave put the fact a Christian group famous for wearing hoods and having 3 Ks in their name helped ensure black people were made second class citizens after they were freed.
@@marcananmh hmmm. I believe the democrat party also started the KKK. What’s the party of Christianity today?
Let’s not forget slavery was already occurring in Africa by other Africans. Deciding to not recognize the importance of America being the first to make slavery illegal is childish. This isn’t negating the fact of slavery in America or saying it doesn’t matter. Despite the tragedy of slavery in America and everywhere else in the world for thousands of years, it is still a pivotal moment in world history making slavery illegal, because nobody else had done it, and it was still going on all over the world. Slavery still exists in Africa today.
Thank you Dr. For clear explanation of Voodoo Religion. Peace be with you
I personally don't believe Lacrae was badmouthing the people who practice voodoo. He was referring to hypocrisy of pushing those beliefs on others while attacking anothers beliefs.
I’m a former christian and current atheist. (My dad is also a pastor- of the West African, cerebral pentecostal variety). One thing that always bothered me about our religious rhetoric was the blatant antiblackness, specifically the demonization (literally) of indigenous black spirituality. Never sat right with me. I respect Lecrae, but I stopped the song after I heard that very line. I’ll try again another time, because he does have great things to say. But yeah that disturbed my spirit, as they say.
certainly a very strange thing to pick if you're going to criticize Kodak Black
@@TheStrangeBloke Like of all the things
Huh I didn't think he meant literal voodoo but rather the general umbrella term for a whole host of beliefs and practices anathema to Christ
@@dahliaherrod4301 Yes, I think that’s also a problem.. However, your worldview differs fundamentally from mine, so my reply likely won’t resonate with you. I’ll agree to disagree. Thank you for taking time to engage with me and I wish you well 🖤
@@Zaza_Grady Hey I appreciate you keeping it respectful as I definitely intended my comment to be respectful. I understand the frustration as far as spirituality goes because Lord knows I'm constantly having to defend my faith. I can only imagine the hell you go through as a black atheist.
I would encourage you to finish the song. I respect the professor's takes, but I think his regard and affinity for Haiti blinded him to any other possibility other than racism or anti-voodoo.
Of course, Lecrae is the only one who truly knows what he meant by that line. The beauty of music is that its open to interpretation and the takeaways can all be good. I hope you have a blessed day!
Lecrae is not ashamed of the gospel. Praise God. (AVAA)
Amen!!!!
We need to get Lacrae to listen to thissss!!!! Voodoo should not be treated as evil
Wait, I really want to under this take. Is Voodoo not the same as witchcraft? I think it’d be hard to convince a Christian that witchcraft is not evil.
@@kevinthomas728it’s hard to convince an atheist that all religion isn’t evil.
@@ExploreVanIsle Valid, I still want to understand why voodoo should not be treated as evil.
What? Why not?
As a Christian he SHOULD think of voodoo as evil. Christianity does not accept all religious practices, it condems what is condemned in the Bible. Witchcraft of any shape or form is comdemned in the Bible. You don't have to agree if you're not Christian, but you can't tell HIM what to beliebe 😉
Loving the new scenery
AVAA as always professor, but i believe you are conflating Lecrae's use of the word "vodou" with colonizer's usual pejorative use of the word. Yes, vodou is valid as a religion but in the eyes of Christianity, it's practices are still very pagan & witchcraft [the act of using natural things and pray created by God to derive supernatural power] by the very definition. The funny thing about paganism and witchcraft is that to the one who believes it, it is simply storied tradition and culture. On top of this, when it comes to vodou or any other religious practice that uses witchcraft, Black culture actually has rather tumultuous relationship with it because of one thing: many of us, especially those down in the American South [which is where Lecrae is from] believe it to be REAL. Depending what part of the South you are in, vodou, Witchcraft, and new age spirituality are interchangeable term for the same thing and aren't just a political talking points or cultural expression and superstition. Vodou is a concrete fact of life. You are taught that there is danger in crossing one that practices the old ways as there is a real and present power behind them. Many other cultures around the world hold reverence/fear for their own old ways. Whether it be the Irish [who still watch what they say around hills and never step in faerie circles], to the Ethiopian church owhich still actively combats sorcerer's and practices exorcisms]
Understand that hatred for vodou as a religion may seem to overlap with xenophobic racist rhetoric, but do not mistake it for the distrust of someone who actually has lived around it or been affected by it.
That being said, Eckhart Tolle is a new age spiritualist [speaking generally]. He may reference scriptural truths in his teachings but overall teaches a doctrine that seeks power thru oneself outside of the Christian God, which is witchcraft by Christian standards. Ergo, according to a Black Southern Christian:
Tolle = New Age Sp. = Witchcraft = Vodou
I know people are gonna this pick apart when I say in it, but this is bigger than White Supremacy [which is also a real, evil, and twisted power structure that is pervasive thru out American history if not the World's history, affecting us everyday from our laws to basic customs, and language.]
TL;DR: When black southern person says vodou / voodoo / hoodoo, it is shorthand for magic that is real and dangerous.
Sincerely,
CW
A 6th Gen Black Christian from the South
avaa!
Great analysis as always, and much respect to you for defending oppressed minority religions! It shows that you are actually taking the teachings of your faith seriously, and not playing "morality dress up". I have to be reminded that religion (especially Christianity unfortunately) is not always a hateful, or violent force in the world, and that it is just as complex and nuanced as people are.
Btw, Foreign Man in the Foreign Land has a great video on Voodoo and Obeia that's definitely worth checking out for anyone who hasn't!
❤
Reading “The Farming of Bones” by Edwidge Danticat for my Global Literatures class which I just got out of to now watch this video, touching on similar topics within Haiti. What a perfect coincidence to further my education. AVAA
The period blood reference was the worst to me. It made me remember my issues with religion. Teaching women that what comes from us is disgusting is just not cool. It makes us feel less than and insecure. It’s simply the body doing the beautiful thing the body always does.
Yet your analysis was refreshing including the “voodoo” line.
No judgment for me as well, we are all on our own paths 🫶🏾
The reference is related to scripture which has a similar reference about our "good acts" being dirty (in the reference to woman's cycle soiling her clothing). It is considered unclean in that regard. I.e. it is not truly "good" as that is in our estimation. We can never be good enough to call ourselves truly "good" or doing truly "good" deeds.
@@neotheboxer Hey! I know what the reference is, I don’t agree with that scripture for the reasons I stated above also the obsession with never being good enough while it simultaneously being the exact purpose of a Christian’s life to be like Christ but they never will no matter how hard they try? It creates a never ending insecurity in one’s own divine purpose as well. Nope, I simply don’t agree with any of it.
It's about being humble. Our ways are primitive to the Almighty. We do the best we can but don't be prideful of what you accomplish. The point is to aspire to be better but we're only human.@@peacockmamatv
@@nishadow7813 I get the point, I don’t agree with it. I used to have this perspective. Yet after my own growth and research I simply see this as self-hating, insecure rhetoric that we are taught to believe. Humility isn’t that, it’s simply the balance where arrogance is on one end of the scale and insecurity is on the other.
@@peacockmamatv I understand. A lot of people don't agree and that's fine. Everyone has free will to choose what they believe in and what they don't. 🙂
AVVA- It is difficult for the younger audience (younger is meant to be developmental so not necessarily age) to understand the nuances and the complexity of systemic racism. Those who offer an objective view that acknowledges your implicit bias and privilege. AVVA
DEE-1 COVER DO ITT!!! Loved your analyses so far.
Would be curious to see a video detailing your faith as a Christian, and how that influences your life/actions; Particularly as it relates to you as a professor and leftist.
I'm in awe of your knowledge, your logic, and the way your process and then relay information. Thank you. Thank you.
The one word really drew the passion out of you brother. Love it & I'm right there with you~
Prof, what you're doing is dope. But please, don't conflate what Lecrae is doing here with what's going on politically. Lecrae isn't running with them folks. He's also a committed Christian. By definition we confess Christ as the only way to God and salvation. He's not making a political statement, but a theological one.
As an Orthodox Christian, I'd also argue that Christianity isn't "just" the slave master's religion. Christianity is bigger and older than the West and cattle slavery, even though Western Christianity is the most visble and vocal. There's something ironic about that, I think.
Again, I think your analysis is super dope. I'll be watching more of your videos. God bless, brother.
The way you process and lay out information reminds me of other language teachers in my life.
Namely my grandpa who taught English at Calvin College and my father who is now a pastor but taught English for years in mission schools while I grew up.
Thanks for the content my man!
Being "nobody to judge" is something people usually say to be impartial about something they don't fully have an opinion for, or just don't wanna show it. Being "nobody to judge" for a christian is more about the "nobody" part than the "judge" one. If you think that recognizing you're the worst sinner of all, and you need a savior is something controversial in christianity, you didn't got it.
I'm nobody to judge cause I was a sinner just like any other, but Christ made me somebody so I could show his love and truth.
When you understand this, you understand that the problem is the same to everybody, and you should treat everyone equally.
Thats what the "enslavers" religion says. (Idk, it doesn't seem very enslavy to me).
The song: "I'll Find You," by Lecrae & feat Tori Kelly is a video that is just Beautiful. It is 7 years old. ❤
Love that song ❤
It's not clout chasing because he asked what they would do and they responded.
22:00 I understand your point on voodoo and I respect that. As you mentioned he was phrasing a description from a Christian point of view, and Christianity is exclusive.
Thank you for sharing on the complexity of voodoo (cant spell it). As a west african born in Italy and living in the UK, voodoo to me was solely witchcrafts. Thank you for broadening my understanding
I was actually anticipating your analysis!!!
FBA and that word voodoo really has little to do with the culture of voondoon or however it should be spilled. We do not traditionally use it as what it means. Non Black Americans have an entirely different otherizing of it. We do not... and I repeat, DO NOT, use that word the same way as the machine of white supremacy. It's an unfortunate ignorance, but I disagree with the affront.
But I do correct people when they discuss voodoo, and I'm a FIRM believer in the redemptive work of the cross and Christ's resurrection.
You always give a pretty decent take and care of Hip Hop
Thanks again for the analysis, Prof. Really appreciated your insight on this one
We all hypocrites
14:05 minor correction: systemic (relating to systems), not systematic (done according to a fixed plan). It's a classic mistake that once you know, it's fun to realize how often you may have done it.
God bless you, Prof.
been looking forward to this one
AVAA thank you for pointing out the voodoo/vodou line and discussing that further. I don't practice it but I am always put off by the negative connotation that is made in American media including hip hop music.
Your "Using Voodoo as a pejorative is white supremacy" rant is simply false, Skye. I'm happy to discuss it with you if you care to. We could livestream it or prerecord it. Go 'head on witchyo nice back yard, tho.
AVAA - I grew up fundamentalist Christian and this music conversation is compelling to my now secular/agnostic self.
I appreciate the shout outs to Justin Hunt and Rob Markman. Instant subbed to them as I can't say I've seen their stuff. I don't follow music much but I have been interested in expanding the commentators I pay attention to - dip in and out of your channel given my life's seasons and whenever I have free mental space to vibe. I appreciate the work you do and how you carry yourself.
Congrats to all these men on their successes: Kendrick, LeCrae, Dee-1. I am not familiar w/LaCrae and Dee-1s work, but thanks to Kendrick, the world is now listening.
18:56 K Dot being on a record with Future is also an example of hypocrisy...both Drake and Future are orchestrators pf THE PARTY.
Thank you for defending Voodoo and the Haitians. I love your channel because I always learn something new. As a Haitian, it was great to learn more about Haiti.
yes we want to see. Thank you for your time.
Blood vs Crip is s battle for who is the true gangsta and Howard vs Hampton is a battle for who is the true HU.
Great analysis, though I disagree with some points, I thought he had some really great things to say, and I’m glad he took the time to make this and share it. I think his work adds to and helps continue the participatory feel about hip hop. Thanks!
I have a saying that i always tell people, when the opportunity arises...
Show me someone who says they're not a hypocrite and I'll show you a liar.
I learn from your video's almost every-time so far. I had to look up the term"Lamp shading." KEEP GOING!😂✌🏾
Great breakdown ❤❤❤❤
Nice job Professor!
This is one of your best videos Skye👍❤️
This was very engaging and very informative
The voodoo rant and education was spot on, thank you sir
Hi, just found your podcast. Love the break down. And learned about Dee-1 Song, and about Voodoo. Born & grew up in Kingston Jamaica and Voodoo is part of the culture there. I do not know anything really about the religion. But people make it this scary thing, and that's not cool. So thank you. I just subscribed and will watch that analysis of "the thief next to Jesus" by cop, you recommended.👍
Opposite of beef is co-sign
I’d say around 80-100 billion in terms of opiates in hip hop. If you only count music sales probably like 15-30 billion
Need that Dee 1 video for sure!
Wow bravoooo!!🎉very good with the voodoo outlook very very good brother and I’m a Blk man 💪🏾👏
Empathy is imagining what someone is feeling. It's objective sympathy. A loving act. Imagination is a powerful tool for healing. I understand when You say you can't imagine what he feels like But You can. Emotional intelligence is something we are all learning . You've never been crucified but you have been in other ways. You can imagine what jesus felt like. and actually feel it. Your brain actually doesn't feel a difference. I know this because I was forced by my life circumstances to be more emotionally intelligent than I ever imagined I could be . I know you can verify what I've said. I am Haitian and thank youuu. I enjoy youur channel.
One big reason I left religion is because of hypocrisy. I could accept people messing up, but when you hear people constantly gossiping about others and the mindset of "do as I say, bot what I do", it infuriates you after a while.
I respect Kendrick and Lecrae because they're aware of their flaws and keep on fighting to live through Christ and do their actual best. I'll never be religious again, but I have the upmost respect for people who truly believe, accept their slip ups, and try to learn from the past.
The Bible comes from Africa. Jesus of Nazareth was a black man; therefore, it is okay to call out whatever religion from the region that oppose it truth. You are for God or for the devil, there is no in between...smile
the worst thing about him was the Hypocrisy
I thought it was because of all the rapping lol
Thanks for teaching me about voodoo, I feel like I learned something important today.
I believe Kendrick and his music are necessary I love the fact his music causes conversation and thinking...we need more of it ❤
Thank you for pointing out the Voodoo line! As someone who appreciates African spirituality, I always correct people who demean Voodoo as a witchcraft.