maxwell

  • 16 of the Sleepiest (Read: Not Woke) Black People We Know

    If you’re reading The Root, chances are you at least know what it means to be “woke.” It’s a level of consciousness that questions mightily and refuses to take things at face value. It’s not quite Hotep, but if you’re woke, you’ve allowed yourself to see what’s real: systemic racism and a very strong disadvantage…

  • Why I Don’t Steal Music Anymore (For the Most Part)

    In a recent VladTV interview, living rap god Bow Wow (formerly of the “Lil’” varietal) discussed his entire career. He referenced Ray J. and Lil’ Kim’s “Wait a Minute,” a joint that I’d forgotten made me nod my head around the turn of the century (and the only worthwhile thing Ray J. ever did that…

  • These Musicians Are Geminis. But Are You Surprised?

    Let’s face it: By and large, Geminis are incredibly creative individuals. It follows that there’s an abundance of Gemini musicians who dominate the music industry. It’s Black Music Month—or, per President Barack Obama’s recent proclamation, African-American Music Appreciation Month. Here we recognize the mastery and pure genius of these Gemini music-making folk. Yes, Biggie was a…