Rob Fields
ARTICLES:
Jackie Magazine, Rihanna and the N-Word: We're to Blame
Reflecting on the n-word flap involving Rihanna and the Dutch magazine, Loop21 blogger Rob Fields says that the pervasive use of the pejorative by African Americans negates our right to become angry when others use it.
The Root Film Review: Salli Richardson-Whitfield in 'I Will Follow'
Writer-director Ava DuVernay's feature-film debut is a moving meditation on love and loss, life and death.
Hendrix for Kids, Cali Royalty and Swansongs
The Root reviews a new Jimi Hendrix children's book and listens to the latest from California King and Chocolate Genius, Inc.
Dark, Twisted Fantasies and Slaying Dragons
The Root listens to Kanye West's new album and Pigeon John's Dragon Slayer.
Canadian Rap, a Suspicious Package and Jimi Hendrix's Early Years
The Root listens to Canadian rapper Shad and Earl Greyhound, and reviews the biography of a legend.
Baroque Pop, Gospel-Flavored Roots Music and Non-Gangsta Gangsta Rap
The Root listens to Lightspeed Champion, Lizz Wright and Tricky.
Black Rock Rolls On
Never mind the endless debate about whether hip-hop is dead. Black rock lives, and is gaining momentum as a cultural force.
Loud and In Living Colour
The rock band’s latest release, The Chair in the Doorway, stands out as a collection of first-rate songs wrapped in hard rock, metal, funk and blues.
Rock is Black Music, Too
Hip-hop has run out of ideas. And if you need proof, consider that Lil Wayne’s doing a rock album.