The music industry has remained interactive in the police brutality epidemic that continues to terrorize the Black community and two of the latest artists to speak on the issue through song are Jay Z and Miguel.
In his newest track titled “Spiritual,” Jay Z is heard speaking about the effects that the ongoing police murders of Black men have had on his life as both a father and as someone who was once a young Black boy being targeted by police. On the TIDAL landing page, an open letter penned by Jay Z himself details how the song came about before Jay expresses his reaction to the latest deaths caused by police brutality.
Rihanna, Drake, Janelle Monae, and More, React to Alton Sterling Shooting
“I’m saddened and disappointed in THIS America – we should be further along.WE ARE NOT. I trust God and know everything that happens is for our greatest good, but man…. it’s tough right now. Blessings to all the families that have lost loved ones to police brutality.” He continues channeling his emotions of frustration into the song lyrics. “I am not poison, no I am not poison just a boy from the hood that, got my hands in the air in despair, don’t shoot, I just wanna do good,” he raps on the chorus.
Take a listen to “Spiritual” below.
Miguel’s latest, appropriately titled “How Many?”, hears him vow not to stay silent while continuously watching the lives of young Black men, women and children be cut short at the hands of police. The song boasts a heavy but widespread question and a call to action as Miguel sings, “Brothers and sisters it’s time to say, something do something. I wonder, how many Black lives? How many Black lives? How many heartbeats turned into flat lines?”
Listen to “How Many?” below.
WANT MORE FROM ESSENCE? Subscribe to our daily newsletter for the latest in hair, beauty, style and celebrity news.