Anyone can speak on what’s happening within communities and across the nation. But who genuinely cares to speak and take the initiative to change the stigma of black culture?

Openly admitting that I am no avid listener of rap music, when I heard the name David Banner a few thoughts came to mind: A southern rapper, catchy hooks and gold grills. Shallow thoughts, I know. Mr. Banner: No I’ve never seen a Chevy with butterfly doors, but I’ve also never given rappers a chance to be heard outside of the catchy hooks and the lyrics that I’ll stop everything that I’m doing to say. I listened to you on the Rickey Smiley Morning Show and for the first time and I heard you.

“When I had the number one song in America, I was able to travel the world. I was able to see what successful black men really looked like. Before that all I had to compare were rap videos and reality television and I was embarrassed.” Being in the position musically to bring awareness is one thing, but to make it your passion/mission is another. If you listen to the lyrics of Evil Knievil that are intentionally piercing your ears with truth, you can only appreciate it.

Barack pushed hope/Regan pushed dope/Clinton pushed something down a young gal’s throat/And since we talking about throats white folks/what do you know about ropes?/What do know about trees/And men swinging from them that look like me?

Banner has another song on his new album The God Box, titled “Marry Me,” which takes us back to the roots of a healthy union in the black culture. “We need to get our sisters back.” He told the story of sending the song to his assistant and her response to it. His assistant told him she had completely given up on the idea of marriage until hearing the song. She said the fact that a black man could even think to write a song like this gave her hope. Our culture can reap the benefits of examples such as this. I applaud David Banner for his spirit of change and continuous efforts to bring life back to black culture.

Thank you, my brother, you are appreciated.

Lanae Dillard is a nationally published Columnist for entertainment, contributing ideas of news and opinion, and love and relationships. She has created a platform for women that includes testimonials, positive vibes and inspiration through her blog, Everyday Girl. She can be found editing, blogging and reaching the hearts of women around the world. Follow her on Instagram @everydayg_blog and check out her blog here: www.everydaygirlblog.com.

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