With the current controversy surrounding high-end retail store Barneys and racial profiling allegations, one thing stands evident. Harry Belafonte was right about Jay-Z. In the midst of this controversy, fans have called on Jay-Z to end his partnership with Barneys, in which his new holiday fashion line is going to be sold. Jay-Z’s response has been a calculated public relations effort in which he negates any real responsibility to his default, “I’m doing it for charity” statement. Currently, Jay-Z is continuing his partnership with Barneys with his collection set to launch next week.
This “doing it for charity” response only further highlights Jay-Z’s disconnect with the masses that he often claims to represent. This notion of accepting racism in exchange for charity is downright laughable. If a charity is supposed to be helping people, why work with a store that appears to marginalize his own fan base due to class and race perceptions. Now, Jay-Z claims he’s being demonized for his partnership with Barneys. He’s not being demonized. He’s being realized.
This is where Harry Belafonte comes in. Months ago Belafonte called on Jay-Z to play a more active role in social movements and help to drive social change. Jay-Z’s response was to refer to the 86-year old civil rights icon as “boy.” Jay-Z went on to state that due to his mega star status, his very presence was “charity.”
Harry Belafonte’s critiques were not superfluous statements. They were part of an insightful analysis of how star power can be used to affect societal movements. With over 50 years of civil rights activism, Belafonte can spot both genuine and superficial involvement. The latter, is what Jay-Z is often engaged in. This superficial support of “the people” is laden with corporate driven interests.
For example, during the height of the Occupy Wall Street Movement, Jay-Z decided to make a t-shirt line based on slogans from the movement. His plans changed, once Occupy Wall Street activists asked if he would share the profits. The idea of having to share the profits (which would have helped provide much needed financial support to activists) was unthinkable to the hip-hop mogul.
Then, there’s the controversy that surrounded 2010 tax records from The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund. During that year he reportedly earned, over $63 million but only donated roughly $6,000 to his own charity. This is not a normal practice for charity founders, who often provide a large portion of their charities’ financial costs. Out of all donors, Jay-Z reportedly gave the lowest donation to his own cause.
Finally, there is the N*ggas in Paris fiasco in which his friend Gwyneth Paltrow, decided to tweet the title of the song after attending his concert. This resulted in Twitter backlash over her usage of the term. Jay-Z, who is an enthusiastic advocate for the usage of the N-word, was silent on the controversy. Having millions among his fan base embrace the N-word is a part of his crossover hood status appeal that provides further economic security.
According to the Recording Industry Association of America, in 2012 White/Caucasian audiences represented 79% of music buys, 81% of CD buyers and 80% of digital buyers. So don’t expect Jay-Z to engage in any significant dialogue with fans about using the word. With him it’s the same old, “people give words power” and “this is the least racist generation” excuse. It’s not economically feasible for him or any other corporately invested hip-hop artist to do anymore than brush off the issue. Yet this is someone people expect to fully grasp or care about race related issues?
The African American community has to get beyond this belief that just because someone from our community attains fame or wealth, that they’re somehow intellectually superior, a role model and someone to be admired. The same can be said for Russell Simmons with his Rush Card, Blood Diamond, and Harriet Tubman controversies. And Kanye West, who often laments about racism but strives to uphold the same materialistic values that help drive economic disparities. Do you really expect any of them to be deeply invested in activism against a classist system from which they benefit?
Harry Belafonte was right. Jay-Z isn’t genuinely standing up against racism or classism because this activism may affect profit margin (something he learned while selling crack).
Jessica Ann Mitchell is the founder of OurLegaci.com & BlackBloggersConnect.com. To reach JAM, email her at OurLegaci@gmail.com.
Follow OurLegaci on Facebook at Facebook.com/OurLegaci.
Our Legaci with J.A.M. Aiwuyor 
Jay-Z is so full of himself that he can’t see the bigger picture. He is doing this to please the corporations he’s in bed with. I’m so over him and his bs.
I agree. I’m so tired of the whole issue.
JAM, Thank you for your article and keying in on one of the most important aspects of societal movements, namely having walked the walk, literally from the Civil Rights walks to making sure equality is recognized by all for the content of ones character as opposed to ones corporate interest and pocketbook. MJG
I agree 100%, after all who is Jay-Z?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mona-r-washington/who_b_3676372.html
some black people tend to hold back on putting white people or white companys in their place even if they cross the line they dont want to come off not likeing white people even tho we alway bin and still are the victims
and all they got to do is act like they like u and ull be fighting for them
stockhome symdrome
we need to wake up cus we dont knw truth and we bin lied to jus like the natives americans
they knw thing abt us we dont knw we are isrealites.org our heritage was stolen and the change everything about ous they are not our friends …
Great article and very “spot on”.
I remember watching that video of Jay Z’s when he’s in that art gallery performing. At first, it looked like he was performing in front of an audience composed of everyday people, but then celebs started popping up in the audience, and it made the whole enterprise look cheap and like a massive sell out. I stopped watching after that.
Jam,
Thanks for the article, it is always great to find real truths that help us understand what is happening with the “icons” of society and how others perceive them. With the recent passing of Nelson Mandela it is certain that too many people look to the wrong example for true inspiration. Mr. Mandela YES! Jay-Z…..not so much. Wish there were more newsworthy journalists like you available on an everyday basis:)
How easily forgotten was his reaction to Cristal’s managing directors’ comment!
“Jay-Z used to make many references to Cristal champagne until 2006, the managing director of the Champagne house that makes Cristal told The Economist that he viewed his product’s association with hip hop “with curiosity and serenity.” When asked about the effect these references have on the image of Cristal, he said,
“That’s a good question, but what can we do? We can’t forbid people from buying it. I’m sure Dom Pérignon or Krug would be delighted to have their business.”
Jay took offense to this and pulled the product from the menu at his 40/40 Club in NYC and vowed to never drink it again. He has replaced it with Ace of Spades Champagne, which also comes in a gold bottle.”
http://rapgenius.com/Jay-z-on-to-the-next-one-lyrics#note-27827
“It has come to my attention that the managing director of Cristal, Frederic Rouzaud views the ‘hip-hop’ culture as ‘unwelcome attention,”’ Jay-Z said. “I view his comments as racist and will no longer support any of his products through any of my various brands including the 40/40 Club nor in my personal life.”
http://www.today.com/id/13350034#.UqIn__RDu8o
Jay-Z has some “complicated” reactions towards racism, for sure.
Great article.
WELL SAID! Couldn’t agree more…
Stop going to his concerts and buying his clothes, that will help
I never liked him. He is from Jersey & never gave back nothing. His purpose is definitely unclear.
Jay Z is from Brooklyn
Instead of portraying a materialistic approach to money, why not encourage more of your followers to attain wealth in order to own properties, buy businesses, employ people, and become financially responsible?
Dude… did you even READ the article? This article isn’t even about money. This article is about the lack of socially responsible black stars in this generation. You should really think before you speak.
Actually DeWayne Alston, I see where Kael’s comment is valid. Jay-Z does perpetuate a very materialistic attitude regarding money and this filters to his listeners. This consumerist mentality is a major problem of our people. We fall victim to others because of our lack of handling on our own finances. Jay-Z pushes the idea of buying name brand clothing, cars and jewelry to his listeners…our youth, knowing many of them cannot afford these things. However, he does not promote investing and making our money grow…which is what he is doing with his money. This is one aspect of the injury he is committing, but it is a very important one. The young lady who was targeted by Barney’s is a single mother with another child on the way and yet she has somehow learned that a $2500 handbag is worth more than creating a nest egg for her children. Materialism and consumerism is indeed promoted by people like Jay Z and it is this foolish image that he also needs to stop condoning. Teach those who have less to do more with what they have. So, Kael may have taken a different approach to the article, but it is an angle worth discussing.
black and latinos did this in tulsa called blackwall street read about it . and ur good friends burned it down and did a 911 on the town it was goin to good people who knw will tell u we can try again . our leaders dont remember
or talk about it , its a shame we could put our people to work we have many Opra,jz , magic, dre’s, but they take their money to africa when they never help us when dog biteing us and when we were been killed u cant get justic from people that never gave us justic
we are to be blame too
marching dont work
they even got to pay now to march now sad sad rebuild Black wall street !!!
What did you read? Because it wasn’t the article at hand. However, there are numerous of us attaining wealth through business ownership, property purchasing, being and trying to remain financially sound. When the masses support those that don’t give back or support those very communities and ppl in those communities that leveraged them to the other level it is a societal suicide. I hate that we have to stop supporting him but what other way do you get your message across?
This so sad…..I never cared for him now I know why….I knew something just wasn’t right about him.
I always wondered why Michael jordan never came out in support of any race issues or political issues and this article made it very clear to me add to why he remains silent about all issues that he should speak out on
Please take a look
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuSnzeA0tZI
We as black people have to realize that not all black people are our friends likewise not all white people are our enemies
Yes he is Brandi Harry Belefonte he disrespects a “man” full of so much history, a music legend/icon King of the calypso beat he walked with Mandela so some rich ass rapper can of the hubris to call this “man” who has worked tirelessly for civil rights way back during Carmen Jones days, How dare he call him a boy. The ultimate word of “disrespect to a black man”
I’m so mad right now I could spit and reading this makes me ashamed and embarrassed for JZ because he may be richer than crème but he needs to go and refresh himself on African American’s civil rights history because he’s stupid and ignorant. And this during a time the world is grieving for Nelson Mandela he disrespects his memory calling and 87 year old black man a boy. I’m done with this dude, real.
He really does need to be punched in the neck.
There’s no need in singling Jay-z out. Coorporations have a strong hold on all Blacks that have achieved some level of success. They are making hush money. All athletes, actors, and entertainers. Lets no forget churches and schools also failing. No ones is being held accountable
Where do you get your information in speaking for the African American community ? I am from the “African American community & I most definitely do not believe that Jay Z or any other financially successful rapper, singer, actor etc. is intellectually superior,
Thanks for commenting Vickie! Jay-Z has been put on a pedestal by many in our community. Definitely not everyone but still too many. He’s viewed as some sort of an icon and we have children idolizing a drug dealer. Let’s be real. This is happening and we have to acknowledge it.
I so agree with you JAM some folk in our community have placed him above all that REALLY matters. I’ve never liked his work because it seems a bit too immature for someone his age. He’s always come across as superficial, egotistical, and shallow.
We should also hold our President to the same social responsibility as Jay-Z. He has become pretty cozy with him as well. With his position of power and relationship with Jay-Z makes it appear that what Jay-Z does is ok.
This is so true Jam and not to mention who he worship and his belief , which is so against our culture. I have a serious problem when some serve a different God then the all mighty himself? And that along says a lots about Jay-Z. So who is he anyways?? That’s the question, and do he really care ???
While I understand your perspective, it is self serving and unrealistic to cast your expectations on another persons responsibilities. Not every hard working black american is out there making themselves heard, why does a multimillionaire get all the press and pressure. If we as a community did a better job of raising our children and being heroes in the home, we would not be having this dialogue. He is more responsible simply because he is more financially capable. Many of you, I am sure, go to work every day for EMPLOYERS who exercise many of the same views openly in their hiring and promotion practices. I would be hard pressed to find any of you who immediately quit their jobs and took income out of their households. Jay Z would be a fool to not take into account the impact on his personal wealth and the legacy of his family, no matter your opinion of what that legacy might be worth, before making such a decision. We as a community should at least respect that. How many black americans of wealth do we currently have? We chose to tear down our own. Jay Z IS NOT the Problem. My parents are truly my heroes. Hardworking, dedicated, fiscally responsible, 50+ years married and raised two very driven, articulate, self aware children. My daily choices are made to honor and respect the values THEY instilled in me, not those of my musical upbringing as amazing as Mr Belefonte is – I appreciate his music, but my values came from home. My choices are my own. Finally, his life as a drug dealer??? Are you saying that will always define him and the millions of others of our youth that have passed through that experience. Cant have it both ways. (he’s a drug dealer or a man of means you want to exercise his influence) Name calling is usually a last resort of a child – Just my opinion.
I think as a people, we are doing just what is expected of us, pointing fingers, placing blames, who knows what context, the word boy was used in? Boy I wish you all would stop it with the crab In the bucket mentality, get off of your lazy behinds, and make some urban societal contributions, and spend more time doing than talking, you can help our people, by not throwing stones, most of you who are commenting, don’t even remember where u came from, and I’m not talking about Africa, when was the last time you looked down and helped someone up?
Each one teach one, then each one can reach one.
We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.
Good read. And I agree with Harry Belafonte. African American artists these days have little to no respect for those who’ve paved the way. There are some who I believe are genuine in their efforts, but most are not. Simply put, they don’t stand for.
~Whitney
http://www.whitneynicjames.com
Thanks for commenting Whitney. You are soooo right. Sometimes people in younger generations don’t realize that on many levels we operate in a state of privilege that older generations didn’t have. Homage and respect needs to be given to icons like Harry Belafonte. If it wasn’t for him and other civil rights icons, Jay-Z wouldn’t have the rights he has today.
Fantastic article! Social Activism should be a requirement not an option. At the end of the day he could really set a precedence but I guess money reign supreme.
Great post. Everyone needs to be concerned with equality and fair treatment. I’ve never been a fan of Jay-Z and this only solidifies my reasons. Why do so many forget where we came from?
Thanks Sabrina! I agree.
Everyone needs to read this! I will repost via Twitter and I’ve already posted on my FB page. You should try and submit this to Huffington Post!
Thanks for sharing my post! Hopefully, I will get the opportunity to share it with a wider audience.
Yep! I just got this from Esai Morales and lit Facebook up I have 1,000 followers hey, I know Z has millions LoL but I CAN make a difference The hubris of this rapper is beyond words.
You know, this post hit several GREAT viewpoints. I used to be a person who enjoyed his music (only the beats, not so much the words). This makes you wonder about his wife, the almighty Queen B and if her “charity” is a bit fluctuant. HMPH! I will continue to say that in this day and age, majority of these people in the lime light are only in it for profit. Not to truly help or make a drastic change. They have the power to do SO much and yet slack more than hose who really work their behinds off to see things get better. This post is great and I will surely share it!!
Thanks for commenting and sharing. I agree. It’s all about the profit.
I agree, Jay Z is all about is money, he feels like he is a businessman and in being that he is removed from the masses and his skin tone. He thinks he is protected, but there are powers that be that can make the UNTOUCHABLE “touchable.” He’s not as removed as he thinks. Why people buy his stuff I don’t know. The level of his raw talent or lack there of leads me to believe that perhaps he did as the rumors suggest, make a deal with the devil. I honestly don’t see anything special about him to make him or his alleged wife so popular, it can’t be talent. Maybe a hint of business savvy but it’s not talent for sure.
Ha! Cree, you make a good point. He does seem to think he’s invincible…but he’s not.
Well when you have been appointed one of the front runners of illuminati movement, he is made to believe that he is invincible….!
Devil? “Alleged wife” ? Really? U read a thought provoking piece of literature addressing a social issue and this is your response? What you have said and the vitriol involved does not help this cause and makes you just as bad as those you criticize. We are as much a part of the problem as Jay Z is.
Fan or not, I must state the obvious: Jay-Z is not Harry Belafonte, nor is he known as some groundbreaking activist for change. In fact, none of the people mentioned in the article can be called people with messages that explicitly support the kind of life-on-the-line commitment, with actions for change as Harry Belafonte and others like him have done for the greater good—at least not yet. For the struggle is not yet over.
Yes, as a people within the toiling aftermath of overcoming almost impossible odds against deliberate, systematic subjugation—whenever we are re-introduced to any act of racial-slighting, or justice- circumvented, it is natural for us to call for the assistance of those with power to enable change, or aid us in exacting revenge. Especially those of the same race, with power-of-celebrity. When that call is not answered to the measure we expect, we begin to treat the person in the position of power as the enemy.
In the early 70s, while he was not yet known, I remember Harry Belafonte as a person my aunt and uncle knew—a guest of their United Nation’s dinner crowd. Harry Belafonte, was that kind of a man—a man with a vision for change. As Jay-Z is the kind of man representing who he is. Neither of them is the enemy.
Years ago, I met a celebrity, whose work I admired. After some dealings, I realized that I was unable to admire the kind of person they were, in spite of their celebrity. I simply stopped talking about them by name, and I stopped supporting what they did. If we are disappointed with the assistance expected from Jay-Z, on this matter, we should stop supporting his career; the magazines that put him on their covers; his businesses; the companies that sponsor him; and most of all, we should stop talking about him, by name.
Although I agree with your post, I feel the need to point out that Harry Belafonte made his first single in 1953 and his first album, “Calypso,” which was released in 1956, sold over a million copies within a year (according to Wikipedia). I think he was pretty well known, long before the early 70’s.
Harry Belefonte was “the man” back in the day he was an African American super star and broke the color barrier mainly (not only was he extremely handsome) because of his “music” he and Sidney Poitier were the “IT” also Ossie Davis and such but just talkin about Harry. He (back in then) was probably as rich as Z is now. He has an extraordinary history an amazing career His first film role was in Bright Road (1953) so he was famous way before the 70’s by 1957 he was a bonafide “international” movie star (that crossed the color lines). He was a social activist right from the gate back in the day. Sorry for my rant but calling this man a ‘boy’ is beyond the pale I’m 62 years old and I’m so mad I want to spit!
I’m sorry…. I’m confused. Are you saying that Harry Belafonte was not known in the 70’s? That’s… completely ridiculous. He did a movie with Dorothy Dandridge…. Does “Carmen” ring a bell? He was also has been singing since 50’s and 60’s. Not to me mention, participating on the 1963 March on Washington first hand. If I’m confused… Help me understand.
I agree. Every time his name is brought up he is remaining a topic or subject matter to be discussed. Actually I am tired of hearing about how he is not coming through to support a bigger racial cause. I don’t believe that he ever made supporting a racial cause his end game. He makes it very clear what his end game is and that is to make money. Yes, it would be nice for him to use his status to assist in the racial cause but that is not what he is around for. He is around to entertain with his music, make money and use his status for other marketing opportunities. He is an example of a business man and that alone. The black community should use his business actions as an example for making money not as an example of social activism.
100
yes- this. As there are all kinds of people in the world, there are all kinds of black folks. Just because Jay Z is a talented artist that makes good music, it doesn’t make him an admirable person. Do I believe he should do more with his money? yes. Should he be vilified for not using his millions for the good of the African American race? I don’t think so.
I agree, De’ Kridge; We respond to the events of living motivated by who we imagine our-selves to be. However, would-en it be divinely lovely if we made a serious effort to learn who we really are? Shall we be mindful of the power within the Light of Pro-activity? Silence is good,(no free publicity for the person or the company) We can only change “us” by our silence on the subject and inactivity with the green!
Blessings and Light all,
Slave-Z Still Serving the interest of his Slave massas.
I like that “slave-z” lets start a movement against him and call him slave-z , slave-z haha. Cool
I agree with everything that is said. One of the many problems is that we created Jay-Z by spending our dollars on his music. Myself included. The flip side is that we don’t spend our dollars to give the same type of power to people who can make a difference in the black culture and community. For example, I am a author of children books. Think about how important that is? Not only do I increased the literacy rate amongst of children but I provide our children a much needed role-model. I have had discussions with people who will not buy my $8.00 book but have $85.00 Timberlands of their 3 year old child’s feet. The black spending power is one of the greatest powers in the country but we continue to give that power away to the newest, hottest and trendiest item only to discard it months later. We don’t need to just buy black, we need to buy with the right blacks. Spending money on most hip-hop artist, sports figures and black Hollywood has gotten us nowhere. Arguably we are worst off than we were in the 80’s & 90’s We must spend our money on the educators and influencers who can uplift and empower our community. I like to think I am one of them but I can even convince parents that they’re going to get much more milage out of my books than those Timberlands.
99 problems and the truth ain’t one!!
Wow. Really powerful words my friend. Thank you.
life is what we make it ( Harry Belafonte you’re wrong about Jay-Z)
smh… you must be really young. You are really out of touch.
Specify wrong Mr. Judison T. Savage? Can’t wait to read this! Lol
Jay Z doesn’t care about his fans. Where do you people get such an idea that he’s connected to you? His only connection is to get you to buy his product. He will not turn down money because a store clerk is racist… Jay Z another rapper extracting money from fools with foolish music…
Where to begin…
Your article is on point. Jay-Z has been appeasing his White Masters for many years now. The PR machine is happy to paint him as a rag to riches story and a role model for African Americans. Of course they would. It suits their needs on many levels. It absolves them of institutional racism while Pimping him out to sell garbage to people.
I’m all for success and you can’t debate his monetary success but its a soulless Faustian success.
Let’s think about the change Jay – Z could have made: As head of Def Jam he could have called for a year Moritorium on the “N” word.1 year for all Rappers on his label. Rappers are SUPPOSED to be the most creative artists in the world and they can’t figure out a way around the slur. Yeah….
Remember when he had the overpriced Carnegie Hall concerts? How much of that money actually went to his charity and in turn reached needy students? In all fairness, Most celebrity charities aren’t really that charitable. I guess we shouldn’t expect Jay to be any different.
I could go on for days. Jay-Z would probably swear he is Pimping the corporations but in reality it’s the other way around. His Sports agency : Really CAA infrastructure with Jay’s name tonadd some luster and street cred. This dude is a Sham. Or is Shame?
I find it strange we criticize Jay Z for not basing his moves based on an opinion of people whom have not supported his corporation in recent years. To say he must be more of a social activist is preposterous. Why don’t any of you go out and protest verbally? What, do you all feel you are not famous enough? Create a spectacle and people will take notice. Why is a girl, 23 years old, baby with one on the way, on public assistance, buying a $2500 bag? Why is a 19 year-old buying a $300 dollar belt? I find it strange none of you been to a club before. You can wear baggy jeans, sneakers, look too young, no fitted hats, obviously dress codes directed at the black community, yet none of you call Greenhouse racist, you are not picketing outside Taj, no call for action against Fashion Forty. The black community always wants a piece of the money someone else earned and when they don’t get that money all of a sudden the black community has morals, values, and common sense. Please sit down with this black power article and go out and act.
Cant*
I have to agree.. Voicing your opinion on social networks seems to be the only thing I see people do, but no one is taking physical action to do it themselves; they rather throw Jay-Z under the bus for his actions, meanwhile in the real world people are trampling each other for the same designer items this holiday weekend and probably still visiting the same store. People need to worry less about these celebrities and more about themselves and the choices they make. I seen Animal activists / PETA in front of Macys 34th st protesting for the past 2 days about fur, I didn’t see one celeb face. why does a celebrity have to take action first in order to influence you? The fact is he doesn’t owe the black community anything, it’s his choice to whether or not he wants to take a stand. Whether you like it or not, you just have to deal with it. Just like it was your choice to support his career and buy his music and products. Now you feel he owes the black community something because he is Black, rich and famous; and you help get this way? Lol. Represent yourself with your own voice and stop waiting on these celebs to speak up for you.
OMG!!!!!
I so much agree with Benjamin Franklin and Mari
Stupid people should get wise and stop making ignorant sell out selfish people famous. You can judge a woman by the company she keeps, so what do that say about his wife?
Crabs in a bucket that’s what we remain
Til this day still we are leary of our siblings fame
Why wont he act right or why did she do that
if I had that cake I’d wish to give it back
to the ones who remain in the hollow of the ground
Those who CHOSE to stay now pull me back down
For us to truly grow you must allow me to change
Crabs in a bucket that’s what we remain
It’s interesting. You know I have heard this analogy of the crab in the bucket for many years and I used to think the same way, until I REALLY started to think. If we really think about this analogy, the crab deserves to be pulled back down. Yes, you actually read that right. They deserve it and I’l tell you why: Does anyone ever think what it takes for that crab to actually get out of that bucket? That crab had to claw, climb and in the process climb over and push down a whole lot of other crabs. That crab made it out on the backs of other crabs. However, when that crab makes it to the top, it does not think to look back to give his fellow crabs a helping hand out of the boiling pot. It does not even think to try to turn off or even turn down the fire under the pot in which his brothers and sisters are actually boiling. The crab simply walks away and leaves his fellow crabs to be boiled and later eaten. Many times that is the picture of those of us who make it out. We forget. We act like crabs and leave our brothers and sisters to boil in an oppressive, marginalized and downtrodden system. People like that deserve to be brought back down because they have forgottwn where they cam from and those who forget where they come from are sure to be reminded when they return.
I love your interpretation of that analogy of the crab
Love that!
LOVE your interpertation! Now you have me thinking….Thank you!
Poof! Mind blown by your analogy and perspective.
I appreciate the new perspective you’ve provided. Well done, Sir!
Beautiful interpretation of this story. Love it.
I like that analogy. It all makes since
Makes no sense, considering crabs were not born in buckets, they were placed there since we being all technical
Kevin, You are spot on. Out of all the post I read about the article, this one was spot on. No one is saying Jay-Z is obligated to give back, but he should want to. He should want to set an example. He had the perfect opportunity to set an example and he didn’t because of his profit margins. There are a lot of us trying to make a difference in our communities, that someday will effect this world, without being a celebrity. I only wished that African American celebrity would do more to help the plight of our people. Racism is not dead, injustice to our people is not dead, it’s not even wounded, it’s cloaked.
If you think long and hard enough you can always distort phrophetic words. They do it with bible all the time. Yes that one crab crawled on the backs of others to get out. SO WHAT. He should be applauded for having the courage and will to make it out. What about how many times he tried to get out and was pulled back down by the same crabs you’re defending. What about the inspiration he provides to the other crabs that have tried and failed. Some of those crabs like being there and dont want help they only want to hate the ones who got out. If we are truly one people then one black man’s success should encourage, inspire and make us proud even if we are still in the struggle. For the record Jay z has reached back and helped those inside and outside of his struggle. He’s not a savior. That’s our problem. We are stuck in a saviors mentality instead of saving ourselves we always place these expectations on those among us who are successful. God bless the child that got his own.
Wow……I agree with most of the comments…Have never been a Jay Z fan, nice beats or not, his lyrics were offensive and totally turned me off, but that’s just me…so I’d never miss him if he was black-balled by the African-American Community…..But we all have an obligation to help build up out communities and nation, so stop saying that we don’t….This is exactly why we are still a downed nation…….Jay Z spent many years in the Marcy Avenue projects slinging drugs…He knows how disenfranchised the people are back there in Bedford Stuyvesant Brooklyn, yet you have not heard of him putting a dime back in that community, like a Recreation center for the teens, getting them off the mean streets….They have very little to do down there…I know., I lived in Bed Stuy for the last 16 years…….This is why I disagree with any body who thinks he doesn’t owe anything back to the community…Its ludacris to even say so……Hell yeah, he owes back to the community he made mucho dollars off of it in the drug trade…..probably led to many addictions and deaths….lives lost….and now, does he even have a conscious about what he left behind…He still has family left there…..I think he is a talent-less, selfish cod……and I used to like Bey and her music alot, I still like her music and acting, but I now question her loyalties to her fans as well….and they are both tainted in the “illuminati”….believe it or not…..Jay Z cares shit about his people……Because he does not acknowledge a connection to the African-American Community…Too Sad!…..
Your thoughts are slanted yet refreshing. Refreshing because of how real and relevant they are. However, your belief that “The African American community has to get beyond this belief that just because someone from our community attains fame or wealth, that they’re somehow intellectually superior, a role model and someone to be admired.”, is racist.
The expectations of public figures that have obtained wealth and fame should not be based on their race. All celebrities should be held to the same social standards. Those that are not supporting their fan base and a better U.S.A., should and will loose their financial support.
You cannot win the fight against racism by being racist. Meaning, if you speak or write against racism you must avoid divisive statements that appear to be race based.
Example using your statement: Americans need to get beyond this belief that just because someone attains fame or wealth, that they’re somehow intellectually superior, a role model and someone to be admired.
This edited version of your comment is not divisive and is a clearer statement of your message. If your focus is to diminish and ultimately end discrimination join those of us that fight fire with truth.
Additionally, I am not a fan of Jay Z, and I am not defending him in any way, but, he is playing the game by the rules and winning. He has a right to be who he is, not who other’s expect him to be. Don’t hate the player because you don’t like the game. If you don’t like the game, find a new one.
The minute you referred to the author as racist, you lost credibility. It’s very revealing of non-blacks who are uncomfortable with discussions about race by blacks to mis-use the term. I won’t bother reading past that point. Educate yourself.
The article is divisive and is a form of race baiting. Nobody gave a rats ass what jay z was doing when he was slinging crack. Now that he’s rich and legit, he owes us something? Why? Because he’s black or because he’s rich? Obviously from this article it’s not the latter because no one is bitching about how Bill Gates is spending his bread or time.
Thanks for a great article. Ignore the criticisms. I’ve yet to read one that had any real substance but there are a few (peterayala) that are just plain idiotic. Keep up the great work!
Look at Jay-Z’s behavior from a strictly cultural point of view. Now do you understand his behavior? certain behavior you have come to expect from some people based on their culture (acquired or otherwise).
Funny how he singled out Jay Z, but it’s typical of blacks to attack someone who looks like them rather than go for major corporations or even the federal government…Jay is a entertainer..same as Harry Belefonte…I don’t recall anyone writing any lyrics for this man so as a entertainer what does he truly owe us…This is what upsets me. We are so quick to hold our hands out to Black celebs who made it and complain when they don’t do anything but won’t say a damn thing to our government nor major companies who still profit off our slavery. Why is he not asking Obama for some help??? Like I said it’s easier to point the finger at Jay Z cause he’s a easier target who most likely won’t respond…what about Jordan who continuously has kids killing over sneakers…how about all the money people spent on skittles and teas for Trayvon..but none of those companies gave a red cent to his family and yet Zimmerman is continuously in the news…why isn’t Mr. Belefonte saying something about that. Black people time is near and we still complaining about the minor issues. WAKE UP!!!
Your Revisionist reply is shortsighted and falls flat. There was “Controversy” outrage and surrounding things like the price of Jordans and kids killing each other. Ever heard of Stephon Marbury? Created a line of shoes to combat that.
Maybe you’re too young to remember that. And maybe you don’t follow current events but there are numerous critiques of the Government. Always have been. Difference today is that some are valid, some are driven by prejudice.
If you’re going to post a contrarian view or any view for that matter you might want to think about it a little more deeply before writing. Just my opinion.
Who came up with the notion that this man is a community icon? Crack dealing is not a community enhancing activity. On the contrary. Lets stop setting ourselves up for disappointment by having high expectations of every rich person.
We have to fight Social Change because the millionaires will not risk their profit to save there own.
What you are looking at is CULTURAL WARFARE. Lil Wayne disrespects Emmit Til’s family in his lyric, Hustle Simmons disrespect for one of my favorite shero’s of all time Mother Harriet Tubman, Rick Ross basically telling you how to date rape a woman in his lyric, As an Emcee myself PLEASE don’t confuse them with Emcee’s or Hip Hop? They are rappers and their bars are sweet and will cause tooth decay!!! As for Jay Z he never stopped dealing drugs, he just changed the product. Don’t think there isn’t a connection between his (the rest of them too) detrimental lyrics and our demise! Jay Z help displace people in Brooklyn in order to help build the Barclay Center people lost their small business, residents, and quality of life thanks to him. The biggest lie that was told was that he was part owner when in fact he was only 1/10 of 1 % of a minority owner (which he has since sold) a gift to spoon feed people of Brooklyn why he should gentrify them. What is the message Jay Z gives to the youth? You don’t have to finish school, hustle drugs and rap about it and your reward could be you get to hang out with the President of the United States. President Obama should have also know better to make the affiliation with him. He’s not my role model my father is! Stop supporting mainstream artist real hip hop is and has always been underground.
It’s 2013, when are you stop blaming racism for all of your communities ills?
I take it you really don’t understand racism or White Supreamcy and how it was used as a necessary tool globally for you to leave that statement.
Im glad somebody is speaking truth…..All of you should be ashamed of yourselves for coming after this blk man who literally came from nothing to make his mark in this world….You all are no different then the people who are racists…. Jay z is a rapper…not a doctor or a lawyer or even a polictical figure….He never professed to be a leader or an activist….He is and always be a hustler….so why would Mr. Belifonte even approach him about playing a role in somthing he never professed to be in the first place…..Lets get over this race shit because honestly its only becoming a blinder over our eyes….its about money the only color tht matters in this day and age….
Jay-Z is a product of his environment…American corporations.
We all have choices in life. Jay-Z chose his way, some agree and others disagree.
There is always at least two ways to view something in this world. When the scenario of Jay-Z donating $6,000.00 out of $63 million is mentioned, some might say, “That’s all?”. How many people have their own scholarship fund? Perhaps Jay-Z runs his fund different than other funds. A certain amount must be raised, anything short of this amount and Jay-Z covers the rest. This would mean he has reached out and influenced people to donate. Charity.
Take money out of any situation Jay-Z is involved and we wouldn’t view it as a negative. We put money in the situation before, during and after Jay-Z is mentioned. Of course we have an issue with him. We view Jay-Z as money.
Jay-Z is a good person. He only does what he wants to do. Perhaps his actions don’t always appease the masses. The masses are tough to appease. Jay-Z is in his mid-forties. He is in the stage of his life where he will transition between conducting business deals and activism. One might argue, he should already be practicing activism.
Don’t forget, Jay-Z was a drug dealer the first 20 or so years of his life. There is an amount of karma involved in his past life. No matter how much money he earns in a year, he still has demons he must deal with on a daily basis. Given time all of the relative will balance out.
My advice, if anyone would like to read, take a step back and watch Jay-Z for the next ten years. See what you see.
Well said Mike! I agree – everyone is talking about how “rich” Jay-Z is, but is he really “rich”? Due to that fact that no one has been able to take material possessions into the next plane of existence, what good does a bank account of money do for you then? The law of Karma is real and there is no amount of money that will save you from it. So based on Jay-Z’s past, I would argue that he is indeed “poor”. I, for one, do not envy his life.
Reblogged this on Purposedrivenw Blog and commented:
This does not surprise me at all ans its sad.
Thank you for this commentary. I hope you can take my criticism with as much grace as you are taking the praise you have been receiving. That to me, is the true test of professionalism. At any rate, I do agree on many levels that Jay Z (he officially removed the hyphen in his name months ago) is no longer in touch with the community nor cares about “the little guy.” My point in replying however is to comment on your mention and quick dismissal of Kanye West’s efforts to speak out for the African-American community….
To reiterate what you said about Kanye: “And Kanye West, who often laments about racism but strives to uphold the same materialistic values that help drive economic disparities. Do you really expect any of them to be deeply invested in activism against a classist system from which they benefit?” I would have to assume by this, that you are not well educated on Kanye’s story, lyrics and/or interviews. Most recently his interview with the “Breakfast Club” radio show, where he stated his goal to design and price affordable clothing so his fans can purchase. Or his recent tour merchandise that features $30 t-shirts (as opposed to $750 see: Barney’s Jay-Z). I think it’s grossly unfair of you to dismiss Kanye’s efforts through his charity, lyrics, “George Bush doesn’t care about black people,” and other efforts..however unguided…as him being materialistic. Yes, he may enjoy expensive clothing that are well within his budget, it was either very convenient or due to a lack of information to ignore things like that. Kanye, an art student with an educated mother (Ph.D) and Black Panther father, who did NOT sell drugs. Let’s talk about that….
Hello Kev,
Thank you for reading my article. I am very knowledgeable about Kanye West, including all of his mother’s accomplishments. Why are you mentioning his parents? Since when does a man get applause for what his parents did? Unfortunately, Kanye West is not his parents. He currently represents a materialistic mindset that continues to do more harm than good. You have only outlined further reasons why Kanye West is such a huge disappointment.
Thanks for replying.
I mentioned Kanye’s parents while also mentioning he did not sell drugs, to set the context that he is the opposite of the drug-dealing Jay Z you mentioned on more than one occasion. I didn’t give Kanye “applause” for what his parents did, but there is something to be said about his upbringing if you are going to also mention Jay Z’s. Listening to Kanye’s lyrics, there is so much more going on than a mention of a high end fashion label here and there. I am just suggesting you listen a little closer.
The last straw for me with this one was posing with Trayvon Martin’s parents and then a week later played 2 sold out stadium shows in Miami, threw a an all nite champagne bash at a 5 star hotel and then shot a music video there which is basically a “visit Florida” tourism promo.. nice boycott there .. giving your money & fame to people who oppress you.. people.. this is not the look. plain and simple.. however .. he is trapped .. he knows if he stands up to the machine they will either kill him , or some of his family or discredit him with any one of numerous scandals they got on him , which for a capitalist, is a fate worse than death ..
the fact that this man would even liken himself to a Sinatra type “Chairman Of The Board” is.. words fail.. Frank Sinatra had the hustle and the muscle behind him to shut Vegas DOWN until Sammy Davis Jr was allowed to walk thru the front door of the hotel where he was headlining and until the casinos hired some Black staff .. Mr & Mrs. Carter both sadly are just puppets kept on gold chains by their illuminati bosses and stand for nothing but Kold Kalculated Kapitalism..like all mainstream entertainers no matter their race or color ..dont rock the boat, do what your’re told and keep this rotten system in place by never questioning it beyond lip service.. Beyonce out buying $350k Hermes purses… the people who slammed the door in Oprah’s face in Paris, on then to free photo ops to promote a single with Harlem school kids.. meh. granted… these people are entertainers and not politicians or philanthropists, they do however have a responsibility at the very least socially if not financially to take a stand and raise awareness.. Their presence at any event should always be treated with scrutiny and suspicion , they are both willing and unwilling spies for their bankster bosses , cameras going off everywhere .. we need leaders at the local level.. God Bless Harry Belafonte, whose shoulders both Mr. & Mrs Carter stand on..
Well said!
I agree with a lot of these points in the article. The one thing I would say though is Jay Z suppose to be the activist everyone wants him to be? He’s an entertainer, and until we start putting the onace on people within our community to change things. Waiting for men who aren’t directly affected by these issues is ignorance in itself.
Cheers to that.
I agree with some of these points, and I disagree with other parts. I agree with the writer’s criticisms of a lot of the stuff Jay Z has done in the past – the “Occupy All Streets” tees was one of the dumbest things I’ve ever seen a rapper do (which is saying a lot, lol), and his past handling with his scholarship foundation was terrible. So in the past, Jay Z has actually been really bad at handling the “social” side of things in a publicly respectable way. I do think he’s not given enough credit in other areas, but that’s a different conversation altogether.
That said, I actually thought he handled the Barneys situation fine, for the most part. He actually used the racial profiling as a way to give help to people who need it. Before, his scholarship foundation was only getting 25% of the profits from the collection – but as a result of all of this, Barney’s is giving 100% to the foundation, along with 10% of what they made from the physical stores and online stores period from a certain day.
Organizations make mistakes. Racism exists, overtly and covertly. Both of those things exist, and will happen. To me, it’s about how you change from those things. Barneys isn’t only losing in the court of public opinion – they’re actually getting sued over this. So as an attempt to make amends, I think that giving all this money to help underprivileged kids go to college is a decent start. Add that to the legal fees from this lawsuit(s), and the money they stand to lose if they actually lose the case(s), and they’re screwed. Barneys’ public rep is already hurt, and they’re losing money from it. People are acting like Barneys “wins” by Jay Z keeping the partnership with them, but they’re losing potentially millions of dollars and their rep.
I don’t see it as an “exchange” for racism, as much as try to make amends for something they did. When a company does something negative like this, it isn’t enough for them to just release a few statements. They need to be hit where it hurts – their pockets, and their reputations. Barneys is getting hit in both of those ways, and people are getting a college education as a result of that. Barneys is going to hate giving away the money from their collection and getting dissed in media, and they’ll be even more upset if they lose this lawsuit, so they will likely have to actually work on changing their practices. Because people are going to be *looking* for racial discrimination situations, now. They’ll have to stay on their toes.
Barneys was already losing money from the deal – they might as well lose *more* money, and that money might as well go to kids who need it. I think that refusing the money for kids that need it is silly. If Jay Z ends the partnership, sure, some people feel better, and a “message” is sent, but nobody is helped in a completely tangible way. If he had partnered with another company, he wouldn’t be able to give *all* the proceeds to kids – he’d get another 25% figure or something, like he was about to get from Barneys before this all happened. And just about all money is “tainted” in the United States.
Fact is, a few employees’ mistakes – or a systematic issue with the business – are about to help give a college education to people who may not get it otherwise. They’re paying for what they did in a way that hurts them, IMO.
Also, I think the point needs to be made that Harry Belafonte is an exception to the rule – that’s what makes him so incredible in this field in the first place. Not everyone is going to be as skilled as Harry Belafonte in terms of social activism, and I don’t think that should necessarily be the only measure we use to determine where a celebrity’s heart is, or how effective he/she is.
Well said.
Thank you for sharing the bigger picture. I understand why many people feel that Jay Z should end his partnership with Barney’s. Many who were outraged know darn well they weren’t going to purchase the collection anyway! Let the partnership continue for the benefit of the foundation.
The last line was a low blow. It changed the journalistic tone of the article.
Hello Life,
My last line was completely accurate and something that Jay-Z boasted about himself. Take a look at this article about his Vanity Fair interview, “I knew about budgets, I was a drug dealer’: Jay-Z says he learned his business skills from selling crack cocaine during the 1980s” http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2440081/I-knew-budgets-I-drug-dealer-Jay-Z-says-learned-business-skills-selling-crack-cocaine-1980s.html
As a fellow Brooklyn-ite I have always been a huge fan of JayZ, both his music as well as his brand of Brooklyn pavement borne tenacity. I appreciate his full embrace of the wonders that agressive capitalism in our modern age has offered. I found this article however, to be extremely well written and coherent on the severe emotional detachment that JayZ seems to exemplify, an attitude rampant in todays major celebrities. I probably got my first inkling of it during the Barclays Center real estate deal when an entire region of underprivileged people were displaced to make room for the monstrosity. Subsequently filled with the minimum wage receiving, warm hearted young kids from the ghettos east of Flatbush avenue, looking on as their white contemporaries from the city pay $15 for bottles of water to quench their molly driven thirst. I think its time for JayZ to take a serious look inward…..or fire his terrible PR team. Great article.
Prayers up for those that buy into Jay-Z’s marketing schemes, or let alone his persona. At the end of the day, he is doing the devils work, make sure you know who’s team you are on. He appears to make no apologies.
I agree with majority of you guys. Jay-Z is all about his money, and fame. I don’t listen to his music or support any of his endeavors, I do not listen to his wife’s music either, because I don’t agree with her passiveness. They both are about building and making their empire on the backs of others, by any means necessary. We need to enlighten our young people of “their” past and give them something else besides growing up to be a rapper or star athlete. Give them confidence, in themselves and their community. Explain to them why it is important to have self respect. Why it is important to embrace your race, your hair, your lips, your body. Let them know that in order to be happy and love, you have to know and love yourself. We need to teach our kids, then they will have enough sense to know not to listen to these knuckle heads talking about N*gga is a form of endearment. My ancestors went through enough to be called African American, and all that is being thrown away for money and fame. I call this ignorance. Teach our kids that is the only way to break the cycle.
Yes!!
What is being said of Jay-Z is true of Barack Obama. So while the criticisms of JayZ are valid, I hope people stop lying to themselves about the U.S and what it represents….. It has always been a lie. So no amount of good intentions and hard work will change it. Jay-Z being Harry Belafonte really changes nothing….. His reign as an important entertainer ushered in Reagan and he same Crack that JayZ sold. So he (Harry) should be castigating people for still looking at entertainers (sucessful or not) to solve problems in their communities….That’s why you have elected officials …..
Wow you roasted him!
A pretty lady by the way
To me he just another rapper I really don’t care what he stands for.I don’t care if he stay with Barneys or leave is he the only black person that sell merchandise there why when someone decimates the whole company is racist for example if someone that works at McDonalds thats racist toward a customer is the whole company racist?It’s Funny How people are trying to make him a activist for he is just a rapper
Drug dealer??? YOU are the problem
Thanks for this article. Modern day artists seem to act “young and dumb” when older individuals like Harry Belafonte, Oprah Winfrey, or Bill Cosby try to teach them something. The only problem is, these artists are neither young nor dumb anymore. They are in their 30s and 40s, doing as you say, filling their pockets and refusing to take a stand lest it hurt their bottom lines or cause them undue aggravation.
You say that kids are idolizing a drug dealer? He USED to be a drug dealer and so was Malcolm X but no one brings that up when they talk about his accomplishments. People change and their PAST shouldn’t be used as some sort of leverage to prove a point today.
Sure, Jay has lost his way. He appears to care more about his success and pockets more than he does about the state of his people. Maybe it’s because no one cared about the state of his life and the life of his mother. Maybe he acts the way he does because no one helped him get to where he is. It’s hard to break that mentality when you come from where he does.
We are all entitled to our opinions but we aren’t entitled to tear someone down when none of us walked in his shoes.
And what amazes me the most is that most of you who have responded are quick to state that you don’t purchase or bother with anything involving Jay but within the same breath feel the need to tell him what to do with his money, power, and influence, all things you admitingly don’t contribute to.
Talk is cheap. All of the character bashing is ridiculous. If you don’t care for the man why waste your time giving him a forum being it a positive or negative one? Stop talking about him, don’t buy his products, don’t go to his shows, don’t support Beyonce or any artist that puts money in his pockets, etc. cause all this says to him is you have a problem with me but yet you took the time to donate an entire article about me.
I agree with EVErYTHING you just said!
Tupac was our last real social activist. Nas does currently does things. But who are we to say Jayz doesn’t do more, the media only reports negativity and the positive. At the end of the day, blacks need to be the change they want to see and stop looking for celebrities to speak for you. Does anyone in your everyday life speak for you? Those days are gone! Mlk’s and Malcolm x days are gone, most of those people were killed! Get off your lazy asses and stop counting the celebrities dollars and following what they do! Do things in your own community yourself and make change! Instead of crying behind a computer you could be actively doing what you criticize Jay for not doing. All blacks do is sit back and criticize each other, you dont see whites doing that to each other! Get out of that Willie Lynch mentality and get your sh*t together! As far as crabs in a barrel, how the hell can a crab turn a stove off! Get serious yall!
Lmaooooo!!! Yo! I was like “he expecting a lot out from a crab” lolol
Yes Brother Malcolm sold drugs. But after he became cognizant of the ways he was complicit in the harming of his people and community, he dedicated his life to educating his people, speaking out for justice, challenging oppressive systems and helping young people avoid the poor choices he once made. I don’t believe anyone is stating a person cannot make a mistake. But how does one now use his or her consciousness for greater good? There is the distinction.
She didn’t say all that..AND she purposely left out the fact that Jay is donating 100% of the proceeds..I get tired of this type of “journalism”..Smh….
Yes!!!
Im not trying to defend anyone but I understand the whole situation but I think his whole thing is about a check but I dont think he cares about the company this deal probably has been pending and he has a family to feed by you guys saying its wrong for him to move foward with the deal its really not our business
yes I liked jay z and that rush card thing was crazy.. The n word in paris another sick situation. I have never put famous black people on pedestals. and this is why I am not well liked amongst my peers because I will not agree with wrong doings if you are black,white, and or green.. harry has been around so he spot a fake..
I will say that I’ve always been a JayZ fan. I like his lyrics some can be rude and cocky but that’s the industry. I listen to the lyrics mainly, as Jay I’m from the projects and growing up in the projects was ok for me. I think for him it was another struggle. People need to stop talking about what he used to do so many years ago. Growing up in the projects some had that survival attitude, unfortunately that lead to deal drugs to survive. Yes some people worked real jobs back then; but that was the PROJECT mentality for a large percentage of our young men back then. This metality still exists today in poor income housing projects all over America. Project people are the forgotten people, with that I think that is why he is the way he is today driven for the almighty dollar and to reach higher heights that are unimaginable for us regular working people. Yes I agree he should give back WAY more than he does especially towards where he came from. I agree with this forum in some ways, but I also know that Jay ‘s mentality today is never going back to the Projects. I also agree that he has to be more socially conscious of his business decisions; it’s not like he NEEDS more money.
Anyone who knows anything about business should know that he’s obviously contractual obligated to fulfill the campaign. Please educate yourself before you blindly believe persuasively written opinions by blog writers who sell their souls for a paycheck.