During an interview with BoldAsLove where he discussed his new album W.A.R. (We Are Renegades),Pharoahe Monch also shared a few thoughts on the usage of the “N” word in Hip Hop.
“If you’re using a word and can’t define its origin, where it came from, why it started, or elaborate on it before you choose to say, ‘I’m using it in this manner,’ then I feel like it’s an ignorance issue,” he explained. “It passes on to generations of kids, who are – even if they’re saying it endearingly – I feel like they’re using it in an ignorant sense. But if you know all these things, then I feel you have the right to use it endearingly and anthemically in songs – or even disrespectfully.”
Monch detailed a specific scenario on an airplane a few years ago, where he felt that members of his crew were using the word in an inappropriate situation. “I would get infuriated,” he said. “You’ve gotta represent me in this scenario, like I want to be represented. And we’re just not gonna say that on a plane.”
The Queens, New York native emphasized that the topic is one that should be discussed. “I think it’s one of the most amazing conversations of modern times, I think that the word is very layered and not black and white, no pun intended. It’s not a casual dismissive conversation and I think everyone’s input on it is necessary.”
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Listen to the full interview below.
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