Just a quick recap on subversion: Subversion refers to an attempt to overthrow structures of authority or "the norm". It is an overturning or uprooting, usually of an unhealthy stereotype.
Recently I was listening to my iPod and the song "I am a Queen" by India Arie came on. The lyrics stand out as an uprooting of the "traditional" lyrics that 20 year old girls are usually singing about. Most female pop singers sell themselves through sex, both with their suggestive lyrics and mildly pornographic videos. Have a look at India's lyrics:
Sometimes I shave my legs and sometimes I don't
Sometimes I comb my hair and sometimes I won't
Depend on how the wind blows I might even paint my toes
It really just depends on whatever feels good in my soul
(chorus)
I'm not the average girl from your video
and I ain't built like a supermodel
But, I learned to love myself unconditionally
Because I am a queen
I'm not the average girl from your video
My worth is not determined by the price of my clothes
No matter what I'm wearing I will always be
India Arie
When I look in the mirror and the only one there is me
Every freckle on my face is where it's supposed to be
And I know my creator didn't make no mistakes on me
My feet, my thighs, my lips, my eyes; I'm lovin' what I see
(Chorus)
Am I less of a lady if I don't wear pantyhose?
My mama said a lady ain't what she wears but, what she knows
But, I've drawn a conclusion,
it's all an illusion, confusion's the name of the game
A misconception, a vast deception
Something's gotta change
Don't be offended this is all my opinion
ain't nothing that I'm sayin law
This is a true confession
of a life learned lesson
I was sent here to share with y'all
So get in where you fit in go on and shine
Clear your mind, now's the time
Put your salt on the shelfGo on and love yourself'
Cuz everything's gonna be all right
(chorus)
Keep your fancy drinks and your expensive minks
I don't need that to have a good time
Keep your expensive car and your caviar
All I need is my guitar
Keep your Kristal and your pistol
I'd rather have a pretty piece of crystal
Don't need your silicon I prefer my own
What God gave me is just fine
(Chorus)
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1 comment:
I thats think its wierd that we are so shocked by hearing someone say something in their music that is actually true for most teenagers. You'de think that the "new music" should be about issues we can relate to, but it obviously isn't since we take so much notice to someone saying something like that. Good for her!!
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