All Praise for “I’m Not Sorry” by Rosa Ree

In her groundbreaking single, Rosa Ree defines herself by her own standards.

Women are often held to an unrealistic standard about their self-expression in mass media and everyday life. The perception and respectability of women has been dominated by definitions of femininity perpetuated through the male gaze. For example, a respectable woman is modest in her language and self-expression. Furthermore, the recording of the video in a church is also a nod to the harsh rules that Chistians place on each other to measure their devotion to God. 

In speaking her truth, Rosa Ree relates to individuals who are unapologetically living their truth according to their own rules. “I’ve been through a lot of things, and I know you expect me to say I’m sorry but that’s what makes me who I am so forgive me I’m not sorry”. This sentiment is supported by the image of Rosa Ree waking into a church with a bottle in one hand and a joint in the other. Many of us learn how to live with our scars and learn that is what makes us uniquely beautiful when all is said and done. 

Her message to the haters is clear:  “Whatever they say, through God Imma fly”. Rosa Ree stands strong in all of her decisions and lets the haters know that their own self-hate which is projected onto her is nothing but noise.

In calling out specific experiences that challenge misogynistic viewpoints, Rosa Ree reclaims her power as a woman through Hip Hop. For example, she spits in verse two, “then I let a rapper touch on my titties in a video and well I am not sorry” and “momma got the punch cause she got girls/ talkin’ ‘bout she only gave birth to some hoes”. 

Rosa Ree uses empowering lyrics and imagery to denounce the “rules of living” imposed by both the male gaze and the church.

About Rosa Ree

Rosa Ree is a Tanzanian hip hop bongo flava rapper and singer. Rosa Ree has been nominated for infamous music awards such as Afrima, Tanzania Music Awards, EAAWARDS and more.