Story

Dave Chappelle Talks Social Justice Leaders: “Malcolm X Died Penniless”

Whether he likes it or not, millions of Dave Chappelle fans look to him for guidance. The longtime entertainer has often used his voice to bring a bit of comedy to serious issues that plague American culture, and during his chat with David Letterman on Netflix’s My Next Guest Needs No Introduction, Chappelle tackles why he doesn’t step forward as a social justice leader.

Mike Coppola / Staff / Getty Images

“There’s somebody who they would look to for moral or intellectual guidance,” Chappelle said. “There’s no pension plan for leaders. Martin Luther King died penniless. Malcolm X died penniless. I don’t want to do that.” Letterman said, even so, he’s still waiting on cultural commentary from Chappelle.

“I said it behind what others were already doing and the commentary after it was very heady and intellectual and I was shocked that nobody ever talked about what it feels like to watch a man get murdered that way by a man in a police uniform,” Chappelle said of George Floyd. Letterman then shares the story of the late civil rights activist and politician John Lewis who was beaten to near-death by an officer many decades ago, and how the experience led Lewis to dedicate his life to fighting for equity and equality. He compared that moment in history to the death of Floyd.

“What a tragic footnote to a tragic culture. This is a lot to unpack,” said Chappelle. “Nights like this are important. Just talking about it. We’re countrymen, all of us. We live in America. It’s weird now, because this game of ‘who suffered more,’ everyone keeps getting the ball. They act like everyone’s suffering is mutually exclusive from everyone else’s, and you and I both know that this is far from the case.”

Check out a clip from Chappelle’s appearance on My Next Guest Needs No Introduction below and make sure to stream the series beginning tomorrow (October 21).

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Music

Tiri The Seed Breathes New Life into Nostalgia with ‘Back In The Room’

Tiri The Seed expertly blends vintage musical elements with contemporary production techniques in “Back In The Room.” This track pulsates with a retro vibe, yet maintains a fresh sonic identity, largely due to Tiri’s charismatic vocal delivery, which infuses the mix with an effortlessly cool energy. Thematically, “Back In The Room” explores the nuances of reconnection, encapsulating that poignant emotional experience of revisiting spaces or moments previously perceived as lost.

Musically, Tiri’s signature vocal timbre overlays an infectious rhythmic foundation paired with lush, sweeping synths, evoking the ambiance of a late-night drive down memory lane. The lyrics are crafted to provoke introspection while the production invites physical movement, striking a harmonious balance between nostalgia and celebration. Tiri’s warm delivery creates an intimate listening experience, drawing the audience into a shared reminiscence of formative moments. The track encapsulates a dichotomy of nostalgia and optimism, making it essential for those who appreciate a classic aesthetic imbued with modern sensibilities.

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Story

Janet Noh Takes a Deep Dive into Vulnerability with ‘One Breath’

Janet Noh’s latest single, “One Breath,” presents a poignant exploration of emotional depth through a minimalistic sonic arrangement. The track harnesses dynamics and silence, allowing Noh’s nuanced vocal delivery to take center stage.

The single “One Breath” engages in introspective self-examination, showcasing Noh’s adeptness at lyrical composition that balances vulnerability with strength. Her phrasing and tonal choices exhibit a masterclass in expressive restraint, allowing listeners to engage with the subtle emotional undercurrents present in the music.

The listening experience is intimate, akin to sharing a personal revelation, which enhances the profound quality of the piece. As the final notes fade, the lingering resonance of the song invites reflection, echoing themes of hope and resilience that are striking in their simplicity. Janet Noh successfully cultivates an atmosphere of comfort and contemplation, which speaks to the listener on a personal and universal level.