Grandson of Malcolm X was keen to appear in Rajae’s video clip |
| Posted by Abdel Razak Chraou (abdel) on 01 Jan 1970 |
Her inspiration for the song is none other than Malcolm Lateef Shabazz, the grandson of Malcolm X (1925-1965) himself, one of the most prominent African-American leaders in U.S. history. The song reminds people that they have a right to be themselves. “Everyone should have the opportunity to be themselves, instead of what people expect them to be,” she says. Malcolm Lateef Shabazz knows this message well. As the first male descendant of his iconic grandfather, Malcolm faced many pressures. Rajae’s music, he says, raises his spirits, while simultaneously pleads in favour of equality and integration. In the video, Rajae speaks out against media hypes, manipulation and the abuse of authority.
About Malcolm and Rajae
Inspired by Rajae’s song, Malcolm offered to collaborate with her on the video. The video is now out in two versions: one for regular music channels and another one with Malcolm’s response to the lyrics. Interestingly, Malcolm had never previously given a video interview.
Rajae’s musical style is impossible to pigeonhole. It is a blend of English pop, soul and jazz, with a soupcon of her roots. Rajae has made a name for herself both as a trendsetter and as a world citizen actively involved in various international peace and emancipation forums. Her work has not gone unnoticed. In November, she was the only female singer to appear on a list of the world’s 500 most influential Muslims – published by The Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding at Georgetown University – at the head of which is the King of Saudi Arabia. Other artists listed include Dave Chapelle, Mos Def, Suheir Hammad, K'Naan, Sami Yusuf, Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) and Outlandish.
Last changed: 21 May 2010 at 11:06:44
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