Sep 06 2007
“Read a Book”: Satire?
GUEST: Leah Aldridge, Director of Policy and Program Development at Peace Over Violence, Graduate Student of Critical Studies in the Cinematic Arts at USC
Sampling Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, “Read a Book,” is a new animated music video that has sparked controversy since airing on Black Entertainment Television. In the style of rapper/producer Lil’ John, “Read a Book,” tries to present itself as an edgy critique of commercial hip hop while posing as a Public Service Announcement. However, critics have problems with the lyrics of the song and the images in the video. Repetitive choruses encourage black people to “read a book,” “raise their children,” and “brush their teeth,” while black women jiggle their behinds with the word ‘book’ printed on their pants. The video, which debuted on BET on July 20th, has sparked new debates after an unedited version surfaced on YouTube and gained considerable views. The senior vice president of animation for BET defended the video as he characterized the song as a “positive message.” The video has been condemned by Jesse Jackson’s Rainbow Coalition, among others. While some agree that “Read a Book,” is witty satire, others decry the negative stereotypes employed.
8 Responses to ““Read a Book”: Satire?”
I think our society is trying to remove ourselves from reality because reality is not pretty. We sweep negativity under the rug (history of America, minority stereotypes) and put fantasy on a pedastool (celebrities, hot video ho’s drapped over thug-like hip hop artists, and reality shows). Until we look at the past, we will never move toward a better future.
Thank you for the interview. I do not watch BET videos much any more Heavy watcher in the mid-late 1980’s “midnight love”. I was not aware of the “READ” segment or the “…Ghetto…” video clipings. I do agree with one of the comments that if you put some of the clippings into a historical, social/political context we could educate ourselves and all cultures to the realities we all face as a global community.
Also, as BET transitioned to the hip-hop and rap, they have presented few videos that show the positive aspects & depth of Afro American culture.
the video is fine. shut up about it.
Stereotypes aren’t created out of whole cloth. If the video didn’t hit too close to home for some then it wouldn’t make such significant waves.
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