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Music exists in a variety of genres. They convey different messages depending on the target audience. Songs also vary depending on the purpose and settings they are played. Music sets scenes and creates emotion for its consumers. One song that has captured my attention and stayed in my mind for the longest time is called ‘this is America,’ sung by a famous African-American singer and actor, Donald Glover. His stage name is Childish Gambino, and his target audience is Americans, particularly black Americans. The official song video and audio were released in 2018.

The song ‘this is America’ is a controversial piece that caught people’s attention worldwide because of its specially defined lyrics and video. It focuses on the issue of discrimination against black people and police brutality. The song starts with a gospel choir to symbolize good news. During the slavery era, black people relied on the good news to give them hope of a better future and freedom from oppression by the white man. Childish Gambino proceeds to put himself in a white room to symbolize America then shoots a black man sitting on a chair. The gun he uses is treated with utmost respect than the body of a black person lying on the ground. As he shoots, he takes the pose of Jim Crow, a famous racist caricature to enhance his message and bring the audience closer to the narrative. The artist uses this scene to connect with his audience and convey the message of racial discrimination happening in America.

I believe the song intends to portray the image of police brutality against African-Americans in America. Many Cases of police using excessive force when handling black people have been reported, yet no serious or legal action seems to support the black community. Some go to the extent of using their legal power to kill black men and use the excuse of self-defense. The song warns black people to stay woke because they are not safe in America. Childish Gambino dances amidst the chaos to show his audience that they need to wake up and address America’s real issue and not get distracted.