Inside America
Top 10 on Billboard Charts: Nov.24 – Nov.30
1.) Circles – Post Malone
Two individuals are tied up in a relationship that goes up and down. Every time they “run away” from one another, they somehow end up going back to one another. For one reason or the other, the individuals are drawn to each other, but apparently, not for all the right reasons. Malone allows his partner make the make the moves “…so I don’t take the blame.”. At the end of the day, Malone’s character knows inside his heart that the relationship has to come to an end once and for all before the relationship turns toxic. The “Better Now” artist premiered “Circles” in New York City during his Bud Light Drive Bar Tour.
As of last Sunday, Post Malone has offcially become a two-time AMA (American Music Award) winner for Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Album. “Circles” is apart of Malone’s recent award winning album, “Hollywood’s Bleeding”.
2.) Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi
Another song based off of fallen love. The character Capaldi portrays is someone who opened up and allowed themselves to be vulnerable, but yet, the partner suddenly “then…pulled the rug.”. At this point, the torn individual feels like he no longer has anyone to turn to for comfort, assurance, or a sense of security. Now, one has to become accustomed to navigating life on their own outside of a relationship. “Someone You Loved” officially marks Lewis Capaldi’s first song to reach the Billboard Top 100 Chart. Capaldi partnered up with the charity organization “Live life, Give Life” with intending to increase awareness for individuals in need of organ donations.
Appearing in the No. 1 spot for quite a few weeks at a time, Capaldi’s “Someone You Loved” has remained on the Billboard 100 list for 28 weeks.
3.) Good as Hell – Lizzo
An empowering song that encourages women not to spend time fretting over a relationship gone bad where “…he don’t love you anymore…”. Lizzo implies that women should not beg to stay in any relationship because at the end of the day, if the individual claims that they do not want you [anymore], it is their loss – life goes on. The music video shows that one of the best lasting remedies to a let-down is feeling good about yourself by looking good, treating yourself, embracing your self-worth and being surrounded by supportive friends. This is another song of Lizzo’s that had originally came out few years ago (2016), but did not gain popularity until after her performance at the 2019 Video Music Awards.
Check out the version of “Good as Hell” where Lizzo collaborates with pop singer/actress, Ariana Grande!
5.) Memories – Maroon 5
As the lead singer of the group, Adam Levine can be heard singing and harmonizing throughout the whole song. In this song, Levine proclaims his thankfulness to his loved ones… the ones who that are within his orbit, and those who, for any reason, are out of it. At one point, “hatred” was felt when he had lost somebody who was dear to him. Now, Levine conveys through this song that he has an open heart – a heart that is capable of going back in time and recalling all of the ‘memories’ him and the loved one had together before they were separated (whether through a bad argument, or through death, is not made clear) in a healthy, positive outlook. From that point going forward, Adam Levine vows to honor the person as long as he lives. On the whole, Maroon 5’s “Memories” song depicts a very humane message. It lets individuals know that it is not only okay, but natural, to go through a cascade of emotions after loosing someone who was once a very important aspect of their life. At the end of the day, what keeps the person alive in one’s soul is the cherishing the memories of that individual.
After releasing the track, Adam Levine took to twitter and stated “This song is for anyone who has ever experienced loss. In other words, this song is for all of us.”
5.) Lose You to Love Me – Selena Gomez
Gomez revisits the events of her past relationship and sings about her rough journey overcoming heartbreak, and betrayal. The crisp video that accompanies the song displayed Selena’s anger, hurt and confusion during that point of her life. Shot by the latest version of the iPhone, the iPhone 11 Pro. This marks Gomez’s first No. 1 track on the Billboard charts.
Selena Gomez headlined the 2019 American Music Awards, where she performed “Lose You to Love Me” for the very first time [followed by it’s follow-up song, “Look At Her Now”].
6.) Senorita – Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello
Ever since they have started dating one another, singer-songwriters Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello have been the talk of the town over the past few of months. “Senorita” outlines the blossoming of a romantic relationship. In the sweet yet steamy music video, the “I Know What You Did Last Summer” singers found themselves grossly intrigued by one another from the very moment they laid eyes on each other. As the saying goes, “From there, it was history.”. Both the song and the video that compliments it convey how they cannot resist one another, for no matter how hard either one of them try to deny it, they always find themselves craving and thinking about each other when they are apart. “Senorita” marks the first collaboration that Mendes and Cabello did as a couple. They preformed the song for the first time at the 2019 Video Music Awards.
In addition to performing “Senorita” at the 2019 VMA’s, the couple has also performed the popular song at the 2019 AMA’s. With “Senorita”, Mendes and Cabello won an AMA for the best collaboration of the year.
7.) No Guidance – Chris Brown ft. Drake
Brown fans, Drake fans and “No Guidance” listeners alike would have likely did a double take from the very moment they came across the song. “Why surprised?” some may wonder… . Well, it all goes back to the bloody, physical altercation that transpired between Chris Brown, Drake, and their entourage at a night club in the year 2012. It is alleged that this viral, out-of-control brawl was over singer/songwriter, and now fashion designer, Rihanna.
Rihanna dated Chris Brown 2008-2009. After a serious 2009 domestic violence case between the “Look at Me Now” and “Man Down” singers, the two ended their relationship. By the time 2011 came, Rihanna began dating the Canadian singer/rapper, Drake. At the night club in 2012, it was stated that Chris Brown made the cordial gesture of sending a fine wine over to Drake’s table… only for Drake to reject the gesture, and pass over a note to Brown’s table that grossly flaunted the fact that he was sleeping with Rihanna at the time (despite the fact Brown had already had a new girlfriend). From there, a massive fight between the two broke out that also consisted of the throwing of glass bottles. A lot of people got horrifically injured due to being caught up in the crossfire of the brawl. A few individuals in the fight had to get stitches on the face and head.
The fact that Brown and the Canadian made a song together strongly indicates an olive branch was extended, and that therefore, both have settled their deep-seated issues. While the song itself praises ‘that special women’s’ qualities, the video “depicts a dance battle between Brown and Drake in which they resolve their beef – mirroring the ending of their real-life feud.”. – Billboard
At the 2019 BET’s Soul Train Awards, Chris Brown’s and Drake’s collaboration on “No Guidance” has earned them three honors in one night. “No Guidance” was declared to be the best dance performance of the year, the best collaboration of the year, AND, overall, the song of the year.
8.) Everything I Wanted – Billie Eilish
“Everything I Wanted” has been released only two weeks ago, and has already made its way into the Hot 100 Chart. Elish’s new single went from No. 74 the first week of it’s release, to No. 8 the second week.
The song at hand was co-written and produced by Billie Eilish’s brother, Finneas. In a recent interview, Eilish gives listeners insight on why she created the song. She states that she is one of those individuals who more so often than not, encounters nightmares. Worse than getting nightmares here and there, Billie also suffers from sleep paralysis.
If one is able to make out the picture on the cover of the single, they will notice it is the Golden Gate Bridge in San Fransico, California. Unfourtantely, the Golden Gate Bridge is well-known for being a common suicide site. This iconic landmark corrorlates with Elish’s “Everything I Wanted” being that it is based off of a dream she had where she commited suicide. The song goes on about how people were acting indifferent after witnessing Eilish’s death – even those who she considered to be her friends. At the end of the day, the song converts to Billie expressing gratitude for her brother, Finneas, for she knows that he will always be there for her no matter what troubles she faces, and vice-versa.
Last Sunday, Billie Eilish has clinched onto her first AMA for the best Alternative Rock Artist. On that very same night, Eilish recieved an additional AMA for the New Artist of the Year.
9.) 10,000 Hours – Dan + Shay & Justin Bieber
This song is about lovers embracing one another and all that they have to offer in terms of companionship. The three spouses (Dan, Shay, and Justin Bieber) vow to always be there for their partners. They want to continue knowing them on a deep level that practically no one else knows on them on – “…the good and the bad…”. The trio of singers express their undying will to patient and to keep trying to capture their partner’s hearts each and every day of their lives together.
According to Billboard, the release of the single marks Justin Bieber’s first entry on a Country chart.
10.) Truth Hurts – Lizzo
Not so long ago, “Truth Hurts” spent some time in the spotlight as number 1 on the Billboard 100. This song is about a woman realizing that the man she was with was “holding me back” when she was the one doing all the heavy-lifting in the relationship to ensure his well-being. Given the situation, the woman Lizzo portrays decides that she does not necessarily need to get married to be happy. In fact, Lizzo offers the man up to other girls who have been chasing after him. Nothing or anyone is worth being a “side chick”. It happens that Lizzo’s “Truth Hurts” came out in 2017. The song did not get much attention until the track featured on Lizzo’s third studio album “Cuz I Love You”. “Truth Hurts” alone has lasted on the Billboard Top 100 Chart for 29 weeks.
Check out how Lizzo’s “Truth Hurts” has inspired youth!
R. Kelly, a highly talented musician, is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of sexual misconduct with multiple women. Most notably, some of these women were his girlfriends, including the mother of his children. Just last night, it was reported that Jamie Foxx, the musician, comedian, and Oscar winner, is facing accusations of sexual misconduct from an individual identified as Jane Doe.
Recently, Sean Combs (also known as P Diddy or Puff Daddy) was accused by his ex-girlfriend and R&B singer Cassie of rape and coercing her into engaging in sexual activities with prostitutes while also using drugs. However, before the situation could escalate further legally, a monetary settlement was reached, and Cassandra withdrew her lawsuit.
Despite reaching a financial settlement before going through the court system, P Diddy’s reputation had already been damaged. His public image has suffered dramatically.
Reflecting on R Kelly’s case and considering how many women have come forward accusing him of rape—including his former partner—it is likely that if he had substantial funds at his disposal, he would have sought an out-of-court settlement. While I do not support or dismiss any wrongful actions against women in any way whatsoever—I have observed numerous accusations made against various celebrities driven by financial motivations.
In the music industry, men often behave immaturely, while women may participate in more frivolous activities. It would be hard for any entertainer to claim they have never done something they are not proud of at some point in their career. Many musicians lead chaotic lives filled with womanizing tendencies alongside drug and alcohol abuse—all without much concern for their future consequences. They often father children across different cities during their tours.
I recall one instance where a famous Nigerian musician served as President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria. One day, one of his children approached him, and he claimed not to know who the child was. Truthfully, he didn’t recognize his offspring. This musician was so famous and adored that every woman in South Western Nigeria would do anything to bear his child.
We can also recall former President Donald Trump once stating that when someone is a celebrity, they allow you to do whatever you want with them—and he wasn’t wrong. However, it should be noted that some of these individuals who consented initially may eventually pursue financial compensation from the celebrities involved. This phenomenon affects both male and female stars.
As the saying goes, “Money answers everything.” Many individuals who have accused various celebrities of wrongdoing often receive significant monetary settlements.
While the world and music industry rightfully condemn R Kelly for his irresponsible actions toward his accusers, we should also consider that if he had sufficient financial resources, he might have found a way out of the mess he created. There are countless other celebrities out there who may have committed worse deeds than R Kelly but continue to thrive due to their wealth.
As attention turns towards Jamie Foxx and the individual suing him for financial damages, I hope we allow the court system to decide this case fairly. The mainstream media tends to fixate on black celebrities—rarely waiting for legal resolutions before passing judgment on them; this severely damages their public image long before any jury reaches a verdict in their trials.
My prayer is that one day, R Kelly will be granted parole as nobody is above sin; none of us are saints.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Aguike
I just tested positive for COVID. I’ve had a scratchy throat for a couple days, but am feeling fine otherwise. Michelle and I are grateful to be vaccinated and boosted, and she has tested negative.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) March 13, 2022
It’s a reminder to get vaccinated if you haven’t already, even as cases go down.
The former President of the United States, Barack Obama said on Sunday that he has tested positive for COVID-19 and is “feeling fine” other than a scratchy throat.
Both the 60-year-old Obama and his wife Michelle Obama are fully vaccinated and boosted, the former president said. Michelle Obama has tested negative.
Obama said his diagnosis is “a reminder to get vaccinated if you haven’t already, even as cases go down.”
Miss USA 2019 pageant winner, Cheslie Kryst has passed away at the age of 30, after jumping off from the roof of her New York City condominium. Kryst’s body was discovered on the sidewalk outside the Orion Condominium building at 7:05 a.m. on Sunday. At the scene, she was pronounced dead. “In devastation and tremendous grief, we share the demise of our dear Cheslie,” a statement said, confirming the 30-year-old beauty queen’s death.
The 2019 pageant winner and 30-year-old lawyer jumped from her luxury 60-story Orion building at 350 W. 42nd St. around 7:15 a.m. and was found dead in the street below, sources said.
“In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie,” the former beauty queen’s family said in a statement Sunday.
“Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength. She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined.
“Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney fighting for social justice, as Miss USA and as a host on EXTRA,” her family said. “But most importantly as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague — we know her impact will live on.”
Inside America
A strange Inauguration eve: why this night’s so different-AGU writes.
Earlier in the day, I saw the incoming President, Joe Biden, wept openly. I equally saw a woman, a staunch member of Qanon, who said President Biden would be arrested and won’t be sworn in as the President.
Washington DC is like a City under a military siege, right at this hour. I was an eye witness on the eve of then-President-elect Obama’s swearing-in ceremony. I got selected to headline the African Inaugural Ball; the day was the 19th of January 2009. I performed to honor the incoming President around 1.a.m Eastern time.
After my performance, the entire crew rode freely amid thousands of folks to Capital Hill, where the swearing-in ceremony would occur. We also visited Baily’s house, where the Obamas stayed on the eve of his swearing-in ceremony. Our next port of call was the White house. I can never forget when a White Secret Service agent told me bluntly not to pass through his ‘yard.’ That night, around 3.a.m, President Bush and his family had their last night in the White House.
Thousands of people camped out at the national mall and folks who kept coming from different directions.
It was around 4.a.m that I drove back to New York City, leaving my crew behind in Washington D.C. I don’t have a word to describe what I saw as I saw thousands of people smiling, singing, and dancing in the streets. People partied across the United States all night long. Candidate Obama had mesmerized and dazzled a distressed nation with messages of hope. You can see that millions of people hoped that Obama would succeed after the economy took a turn for the worse.
Millions of people had lost their jobs. Companies went out of business.
A vast majority of Americans saw the President-Elect, Barrack Obama, who campaigned with a catchy phrase that says ‘Hope you can believe in,’ put their hopes on him. The man went to work as soon as he got sworn in; there was no drama, no scandal. Obama and Biden worked for the American people, who gave them a mandate. Obama, just like every other mortal out there, is not a perfect man; some of his policies, as controversial as they were, he dug the nation out of a hole. His detractors agreed.
Tonight as the United States people mourn the deaths of over four hundred thousand lives lost due to the coronavirus, Washington D.C is a no-go area. With over twenty thousand members of the national guard in military Kakis, their hands on the long guns, this night is the complete opposite of 2009 or even 2017 when the current President took over. The national guards are dealing with the harsh cold weather too. I don’t know how they do it, but this is hard. Imagine staying outside under this cold condition? Horrible. You can see hundreds of them sleeping on the bare floor. How do they even eat or shower under this condition? I salute these men and women who put their lives in harm’s way for us.
I remain grateful that I witnessed history in 2009, by every standard, Kamala Harris’s rise from slum to become the Vice president lect is historic. She was born and raised like an ordinary child out there. She rose from nothing to become somebody. Kamala also went to a regular school like every other poor kid in our neighborhood. The man who selected her ( President- Elect Joe Biden) is also an ordinary American whose parents lived from paycheck to paycheck. Many of us quarreled, fought, and became enemies and passionately supported our candidates. In the next 12 hours or less, a new President will be sworn in. Let’s bury the hatchets and be friends again. In politics, they say, there’s no permanent friendship but permanent interest.
It is an unusual night, surreal, frightful, and unprecedented in so many ways. Historians will never refer to this transition as a peaceful transfer of power. It reminds me of a military take over in Banana Republics. This night in Washington, D.C, looks nothing like an inauguration eve; it is a sad night. Earlier in the day, I saw the incoming President, Joe Biden, wept openly. I equally saw a woman, a staunch member of Qanon, who said President Biden would be arrested and won’t be sworn in as the President. Guys, these are challenging times; please pray for the United States, the land of the impossibilities.
https://allafrica.com/stories/200901120544.html
AGU’s a New York-based Musicologist, Singer, songwriter, producer, web developer, and businessman.
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