Hov & B

Jay-Z and Beyoncè are always the 'it' celebrites to talk about when mentioning music, tabloids, entertainment, etc. -- especially with the birth of their newborn, Blue Ivy Carter. In relation to COM 323, elements of feminism and the male gaze are exemplified by both Jay-Z and Beyoncè. Beyoncè has continuously pushed the envelope for women and the level of their success within the music industry. We all know that wonen have come a long way from being oppressed, and still are in some instances this current day. With her music, clothing, & acting career, it is evident that elements of feminism have been an obstacle knocked down by Beyoncè. As for Jay, he IS the male gaze, so to speak. As a successful CEO/Businessman and artist, Jay is the epitome of one of the best rappers to ever live. Because of this, he has a significant effect on how aspiring male rappers and businessmen want to be him. This also displays elements of the penis envy where even women wish to be Jay-Z. There are people who literally wake up every morning and try to imitate the life of Hov.

False Consciousness in "Young, Wild, & Free"

Wiz Khlaifa has made his buzz in the music industry with his steong lyrics in support of marijuana over experimental hip hop beats. He is also becoming identified as an artist who has catchy melodies to his hooks. He has a new song that features advid weed smoker Snoop Dogg. The song's chorus says, "So what we get drunk, so what we smoke weed, we're just having fun, we don't care who sees. So what we go out, that's how it's supposed to be. Living young and wild and free." This serves as an anthem to those who snoke weed or drink alcohol, in relation to having a good social life, however, these lyrics create false consciousness to listeners who really sit back and think that they can partake in these activities without a care in the world. While Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa can probably do these things, people such as myself and even you reading this cannot do. It's almost like a romantic comedy where the guy always wins the girl at the end, but it doesn't really happen like that in all reality.

Tupac's Back

At one of music's largest festivals, Coachella, many artists performed the spectators' favorite songs. The most interesting part of the night was when the playback of legendary westcoast rapper, Tupac Shakur's voice started to fill the venue. Not only did this get the crowd hype, the surprise came when a hologram of Tupac appeared on stage as if he was resurrected. You could see the clothes, the sweat, his tattoos, he even used the same type of slang and language style that Tupac used--it just looked like Tupac was standing there right in front of you. Now, rumors are circulating that this authentic looking hologram of Tupac will be going on a musical tour. This is taking post modernism to the next level. Can this really happen? Can you really see a Tupac hologram going on a world tour? Would you purchase tickets? There are so many questions that get raised in this regard.

Another Stunt?

Everytime you hear these two names you know there is quite a story to follow--Kanye West and Kim Kardashian. It's renownly known that Kanye West is a popous arrogant yet ironically a kind hearted individual. Kim Kardashian is argued to be famous from the release of her sex tape with Ray J. Considering her stardome there has been great question whether the tape was a stunt to get her name famous. Have someone Kanye ans Kim publicize a relationship, do you think it would be beneficial to both individuals careers? Rumors and tabloids make money. This relationship I feel is another stunt to help create buzz surrounding both their known names. Besides, when are relationships real in Hollywood anyway? You decide.

NFL Upholds Suspension Decision

Legendary NFL New Orleans' Saints' head coach, Sean Payton, has been suspended begining April 16,2012 until April 16, 2013 for failing to comply with NFL bounty rules and regulations. The team as a whole was fined a whopping $500,000 and the 2nd round draft picks for the next 2 years. The decision to suspend Payton was appealed, but ultimately upheld and it looks like the Saints have a few options as to who can fill this position. However, my question is was this neccessary? Yes, we understand that there compliance elements behind all the touchdowns we see on TV, but to suspend a coach of this caliber for a whole season? I can't say that I see why this is absolutely necessary.