Jay-Z and the use of the B-word

Jay-Z, one of the most influential rappers of our generation, has recently made an announcement; he will no longer be using the b-word in his music. This announcement comes after the birth of his daughter Blue Ivy with Beyoncé.  While his intentions may seem honorable, is his statement really to be taken seriously and will it influence others to stop the use of the b-word? After reading an article titled “The B-word-whose is it, anyway?” by Zosia Bielski (link here: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/relationships/news-and-views/the-b-word---whose-is-it-anyway/article2308538/page1/ ), I got to thinking about the implications of the b-word in rap music culture.

I consider myself to have a diverse musical taste, including some rap/hip-hop music. Since being exposed to feminism I have become increasingly aware of the misogynistic lyrics in what seems to be the majority of rap/hip-hop music. That’s nothing new, however I find it difficult as a feminist to truly enjoy the music for what it is, without cringing at some of the horrible lyrics. The use of the b-word is so flagrant in music that I believe that most people have become desensitized to the word. This is a problem, especially when the b-word in most music is used in a negative and derogatory manner to generalize women. According to the article, the use of the b-word is, “…inherently gendered.” This not only applies to describing women in rap/hip-hop music but has a reached other arenas such as describing female politicians (“You don’t hear female politicians being called ‘jerks’ or ‘a-holes’.”). The article questions why doing something that has absolutely nothing to do with gender has to gendered because people don’t agree or like it. This reveals the different standards for male and female behaviors.

The article also points out that while many women have begun to reappropriate the word, in our society, it will be incredibly difficult to change the current misogynistic culture. Rappers like Jay-Z will continue to sell the b-word, no matter what his recent claims are.