Jay-Z lets go of profane references for Blue Ivy’s sake.
If a father could do one thing to make the world a better place for his newborn daughter, what do you think it would be. World peace? Safer streets? Financial security? In the case of rapper and business mogul Jay-Z, since security and finances aren’t pressing issues for him and his family, and world peace is out of his control there is a small change he can make that would have far-reaching impact — stop using the word “b—-.” Jay-Z is all to well aware of the influence his musics and his lyrics have on the actions and attitudes of youth here and over seas. Check out Jigga’s letter to Blue Ivy Carter, he and Beyonce’s brand-new baby girl.
Before I got in the game, made a change, and got rich,
I didn’t think hard about using the word B—-.
I rapped, I flipped it, I sold it, I lived it
now with my daughter in this world
I curse those that give it.
I never realized while on the fast track
that I’d give riddance to the word bitch, to leave her innocence in tact.
No man will degrade her, or call her out her name
the women won’t despise her and call her the same.
I know it’s gonna miss me
cuz we been together like Nike Airs and crisp tees
when we all used to hang out front
singing 99 problems but a lady ain’t one.
Excuse me miss, can I be your mister
cuz I can tell the difference from a little girl and a sister,
She never grew up, her father left her alone
I promise not to talk like we used to
until Kingdom Come.
I’m so focused on your future,
The degradation has passed
I wish you wealth, health, and insight
forever young you may pass.
Blue Ivy Carter, my angel.
The artists who keep us captivated with their ability to spit rhymes and for those men — boyfriends, husbands, and fathers too — who listen intently to the words and mimic them in thought and deed, will have to be vigilante about protecting their children from the insults which might be leveled their way. They especially can’t add to the denigration of a generation and the degradation of girls and young women. Think about your favorite celebrity who is or may become a parent. How would you like their letter to read? What would your letter say?
Thoughts?
