Eminem and Kid Cudi address injustice in their passionate collaboration, “The Adventures of Moon Man and Slim Shady.” The artists touch on prevalent issues such as the BLM, police brutality, COVID-19, and the oval office. Their honesty forces listeners to experience discomfort, which is necessary for change. Ultimately, Eminem and Kid Cudi call us to action: we are nowhere near done fighting for equality.
The rappers bluntly expose Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints quarterback. They recall an event where he condemned the practice of kneeling during the national anthem. This had begun as a way to protest against police brutality. By calling out the quarterback, Kid Cudi and Eminem are acknowledging the disrespect and holding him accountable.
“That’s New Orleans (what?), Fuck Drew Brees (yeah)“
Eminem and Kid Cudi channel their rage by posing questions about recurring injustices, asking, “How the f•ck is it that so many cops are dirty?” Additionally, they remember victims of police brutality George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery, honoring their lives while resurfacing the persistent deaths. They do not allow us to forget: police brutality has not ceased.
“Prayers to George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery”
The song uses the phrase “I can’t breathe” to demonstrate support for the BLM movement and emphasize the enduring cruelty. By allowing listeners to recognize these troublesome realities, the artists urge us to keep fighting for change.
“Stop, man, please, officer, I’m sorry
But I can’t breathe when I got you on top of me
Your goddamn knee’s on my carotid artery”
The artists illustrate how the political climate of the country is not independent of the racial injustice that persists. Shamelessly, they call out the Trump administration, deeming them “half wits”. Again, they demonstrate the power of blunt confrontation.
The song continually mentions COVID-19, acknowledging the severity of the disease and urging everyone to wear masks. Furthermore, the rappers do not hesitate to call out those who do not follow health regulations.
“Half of us walking around like a zombie apocalypse, other half are just pissed off and don’t wanna wear a mask and they’re just scoffing”
Moon Man and Slim Shady have unabashedly created a piece of music that forces us to pause and reflect on the world around us. Are we willing to continue confronting reality headon?
Watch the music video here, where the two rappers take on the roles of superheroes, urging us to open our eyes and fight.
Featured Image by ep_jhu on Flickr.
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