Thursday, April 25, 2019

JBC: Music/Racism and Cultural Appropriation


Hip hop is indeed from the African American and Latino culture, which was cultivated when they were going through their toughest time. "...Cultural appropriation refers to the use of cultural elements (such as modes of speech, dress, or forms of music) by an outsider -- someone who is not a member of the cultural group historically associated with this tradition" (347-348). Iggy Azalea is a white Australian who made her way into the rap-music industry. She was criticized by many black celebrities with her use of lyrics. 

Although white folks are criticized for cultural appropriation due to the background history, there was also a case where even an Asian athlete, Jeremy Lin, was criticized with his choice of hairstyle because he was a 'Lin'. Former athlete, Kenyon Martin highly disapprove Lin's dreads and expressed, I’m confused, puzzled, in shock, disappointed in his teammates and the Nets as an organization for allowing this foolishness!!!”. He further stated, "you wanna be black. Like, we get it. But your last name is Lin". After the criticism, Lin replied, "at the end of the day I appreciate that I have dreads and you have Chinese tattoos bc I think it's a sign of respect". https://ftw.usatoday.com/2017/10/jeremy-lin-nets-kenyon-martin-dreads-instagram-respond-comment-hair

What I'm curious about is, is Jeremy Lin's case a form of cultural appreciation instead of appropriation?

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