Image by KAMERJAMZ ENT,
Introduction:
African Women across the diaspora continue to influence the Hip Hop industry depsiste experienceing prejudice. African women hip hop artists play a huge role in creating the culture. However, in a male dominated industry, women often face descrimination and prejudice not receiving the respect they deserve. However, the mixtape that I have created reflects the movement of women empowerment in the music industry. It is a direct challenge to the existing patriarchy and sexism and reminds women that they are greater and more powerful than their challenges. Additionally, these women are using their rap to share their truths. It is a form of storytelling to express the experiences that shape their identity and inspiration that influence their actions. African women continue to challenge the status quo, often elevating the creative landscape of the hip hop music industry. Through this mixtape I hope to pay homage to all of the African women in the Hip Hop industry who continue to use their platform for change.
Simi – Woman
The first song featured on the mixtape is Simi, a Nigerian singer, and rapper. Simi’s single “Women” is a song about uplifting women as well as calling out the institutionalized barriers that oppress them. In the song, Simi highlights the unequal and unjust treatment that African women face and calls for the reform of an equitable system. In the song, Simi states “Suffer suffer for the world (amen), Enjoy for heaven But, you no pay attention oh To the intimidation she dey face.” Here Simi reflects on the neglect that African women often face in society. In many cases, the needs and concerns of women are rarely met or accommodated. Simi, as an artist, is recognized for her impactful music and detailed music videos that often convey her message.
Oshun – Blessings on Blessings
The Next song featured on the mixtape is Oshun’s Blessings on Blessings. The music group Oshun is a music group composed of two artists Niambi Sala and Thandiwe. Both Nigerian American, Oshun makes raps that allude to their Yuroba heritage. Their latest single Blessings on Blessings is considered their female anthem single on their album as it highlights the glory and blessing that women are in the lives of many. In the song, Oshun pays homage to Nigerian mothers and grandmothers accrediting their success to the sacrifice of the women in their lives. Oshun exemplifies the power of their grandmothers stating “Great-grandma died of Alzheimer’s But she knew the kid, Only 2 years old, standing by her at the bed. First time meeting, but she reached out for my head, On my birthday I died, but I came back from the dead.” Oshun uses death and rebirth as a motif throughout the song to signify the power of women and their never-ending cycle of change and achieving greatness.
Sa-Roc – Forever
The third song featured on the mixtape is Sa-Roc’s Forever. In her latest hit, Sa- Roc, challenges the beauty standards that are placed on women and pushes back against Eurocentric ideals of beauty. The song “Forever carries an empowering message “No, I’m not flawless. I’m scarred up, and I’m fine with it.” Sa- Roc encourages women to embody and love their natural beauty regarding its as the best way to “stay woke.”
One – Strong Girl
The fourth Song featured on the mixtape is “Strong Girl” by girl group One. The song focuses on the female empowerment of young African girls. It is a call to action to place female leaders in positions of power to influence and inspire young women in poor countries. As a result, the song aims to lift young women out of poverty and into prosperity.
Roberto – African Women
Roberto is a Singer, songwriter, and radio personality. In his latest rap song, “African Women” Robert praises African women with admiration and respect. Roberto acknowledges the beauty of their skin and the richness of their culture. This is an indirect contrast to the stereotypes and negative tropes often projected on African women. Roberto’s song is a love letter to African Women and calls for everyone to embrace their beauty stating “Bless that African woman, rich skin tone my woman, True Africa proud woman, rise African woman.”
https://www.musicgateway.com/spotify-mixtape?playlistID=4mPsVLAAr2SkG7GA1NO4rQ