Music is an art form that has a tendency to showcase topics and social issues in an obscure or abstract manner. This allows for interpretation to be held up by the listener. However, Solange leaves no uncertainty with her recent release of her third studio album, A Seat at the Table. This powerful work of art brings us into the journey of what it is to be black in America. Not only black people, but black women. As a black woman, it resonates with me through the assertion of identity and black ownership.
Overall, the album touches on many harsh realities regarding the ongoing issue of racial tension in America, as well as the issue being that black culture is valued more than black lives. This album is to uplift, communicate and support Black People.
Solange gave us compassion, grittiness, beauty and messages that broke barriers. She was bold, direct and savvy in her meaning throughout this album. The song, “Don’t Touch My Hair” speaks on the young black woman’s self-worth, strength and dignity. For women, hair means much more than what it is on the surface. It is our crown, our pride, our growth, our meaning. She brings this message to life in her recently released music video for the song (seen below)
More than just an album, A Seat at the Table is an invitation she has written to us, as her brothers and sisters in this world, who are going through the emotional and mental hardships of just being Black in America. She has invited us to a seat at her table and Rise as one in the face of injustice and priding on the richness of black culture.
Signed,
Dom
Signed Dom 