The culture of my people is pervasive and far reaching, influencing art forms and expression even when that is not the intent.
Presently the prime example of this is the latest youtube video; "bed intruder," featuring Antoine Dodson, the brother of Kelly Dodson, a young woman who was recently accosted while asleep with her young daughter in the bedroom of her Webster Drive apartment in Huntsville, Alabama.
Apparently society has been so intrigued by the interview that Mr. Dodson gave to the local news station that some have decided to turn an unfortunate incident into a parody of sorts, resulting in an outcome that I choose to interpret as art. Art, many say imitates life or does that go the other way around. You decide.
First off, can we address the fact that a real and present danger is lurking in the community of Madison county, Huntsville, Alabama. The seriousness of this truth appears to have been discounted for the sake of a laugh, present company included. I rationalize my light-heartedness about the situation by reconciling the fact that Kelly Dodson survived and was able to succesfully thwart the intruders advances, for this I am truly glad.
The animated emotion with which Mr. Antoine Dodson spoke was akin to the best theater that Broadway has to offer. No wonder people are captivated. This guy deserves to see his name in bright lights. Maybe there's a contract in his future? Who knows, time will tell.
Now, what of the musical and art element that has been rolled out? This in particular, I find to be absolutely fascinating. There are currently over 20+ covers of the original auto-tuned song version, which was a remix of the original channel 48 news report. Not only that, but the song is the #1 watched video on youtube this week, with over 4 million+ views.
But don't listen to me. Judge for yourselves. This is the original Channel 48 news coverage.
This is the link to the original remix auto tune version of the Channel 48 news coverage. and then we have 3 of my favorite covers. Three that I feel are both creative and inspiring and in one case funny.
First an incredible acoustic performance by Schmoyoho. Second a rousing, base accompanied performance by Afua. and Finally, Justin Robert Young brings a thespian edge to this drama.
In conclusion, if your anything like me, your wondering, what does Antoine Dodson feel about all of this, primarily his new found fame and following. Well, find out here. He's ready for his golden ticket to Hollywood.
Like I said in the beginning, The culture of my people is pervasive and far reaching, influencing art forms and expression even when that is not the intent. Go for it Antoine Dodson, make your dreams a reality, but not before the apprehension of your sisters attacker, which is hopefully very soon.
~Demi Loon
1 comment:
It is a fascinating ethno-musicological topic. I think you are right that at the core of this viral phenomena exists a genuine curiosity / obsession with African American culture. Simultaneously the exploitation is undeniable. I think the producer that made this auto tune remix which sparked the whole thing is insecure but talented and may even feel that he has to compensate for his whiteness and inability to become a successful vocal performer without a gimmick. In all fairness he has made versions that poke fun at politicians, news casters etc. However none of those parodies caught fire and I think that speak volumes of the soul of a man.
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