Soulja Boy surpassed expectations by becoming a successful hit maker after the release of his debut single, “Crank Dat…” Although his lyrics are uninspiring and cliche, his dancing and emotion are the embodiment of the youthful energy that’s always played a major role in hip-hop. He should also be credited for using the Internet to become the first rapper to start a successful career online.
However, Soulja Boy’s image is increasingly becoming reminiscent of a blackface entertainer who performed in minstrel shows during the 19th and early 20th century. During a recent photo shoot with Vibe magazine, an “artist” tattooed the word “Swag” across Soulja Boy’s entire face.
Although the purpose was likely used to pay homage to the irrationally popular face tattoos, the visual becomes a sad allegory of the buffoonery that Soulja Boy and other rappers such as Waka Flocka, OJ Da Juiceman, and Lil B have come to represent.
But the images that these rappers portray have very little to do with their expression as artists. Soulja Boy, Waka Flocka, OJ Da Juiceman, and Lil B are all signed to major record labels. These labels, which are all owned by white millionaires or corporations, hire managers, stylists, and A&R directors to establish the appropriate image for each artist.
So when a rapper portrays a stereotype that’s similar to a blackface entertainer, we must all understand that millions of dollars have been invested to reduce them to hip-hop coons who are given the opportunity to become superstars. –a.r.
