A Mixtape on Representation and Resistance

Through an exploration of the individualized and collective use of the Black voice as a vehicle for challenging oppression and redefining one's identity via music, speech, and storytelling, this mixtape draws inspiration from historical Black figures such as Frederick Douglass and Martin Delany as well as present-day artists who embody the same beliefs.

The history of music, from the earliest of times until now, is filled with examples of using it as a source of resistance and as a means to express oneself against all forms of oppression. For me, the mixtape “Voices of Liberation” represents a continuation of this fight against oppression; it draws its inspiration from Frederick Douglass’ call for Truth and Martin Delaney’s call for Independence, which are two core themes represented on this mixtape - the idea of defining one’s self while being oppressed. 

Kendrick Lamar’s song “Alright” is an excellent example of Douglass’ assertion that, in order for one to achieve True Freedom, one must first understand who they are; the courage to speak up on behalf of others is also exemplified in Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar’s collaboration, “Freedom.” In a similar vein, Michael Kiwanuka’s song, “Black Man in a White World,” embodies Delaney's view regarding the struggle for belonging in a world created against you.

D'Angelo’s "The Charade," Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power,” and Nas’ “I Can” also align with this tradition and demonstrate how modern-day musicians are continuing to create political music through rhythm and rebellion, but for social consumption. Douglass used the spoken word and written works as a means for Art and Activism, paving a path for other creative processes.

Somewhat in line with Douglass’ advocacy of Moral Courage and Delaney’s advocacy of Self-Determination, my original song “The Bigger Picture” and its combination of Urgency and Reflection reflect the reality of Systemic Racism and Police Brutality, showing that creating can enable one to be liberated.

This mixtape’s flow, moving from Struggle to Realization and then Empowerment, is the embodiment of how Douglass and Delaney described the Journey from Slavery to Self-Definition.

The artists represented in this mixtape are going to be heard, not just when they are alive and producing but anytime they produce music or words in a world that pursues neutrality to the point that it can result in death. This mixtape is intended to be an ongoing representation of how each beat, lyric, and act of honesty by the artist signifies their desire for freedom and that freedom can be expressed through both actions and music.

Tracklist:

1. “Alright” – Kendrick Lamar

2. “Freedom” – Beyoncé ft. Kendrick Lamar

3. “The Charade” – D’Angelo and The Vanguard

4. “Black Man in a White World” – Michael Kiwanuka

5. “I Can” – Nas

6. “Fight the Power” – Public Enemy

7. “Glory” – Common ft. John Legend

8. “Be Free” – J. Cole

9. “A Change Is Gonna Come” – Sam Cooke

10. “Rise Up” – Andra Day

11. “The Bigger Picture” – Lil Baby

12. “Untitled 05” – Kendrick Lamar

13. “Formation” – Beyoncé