Just How Real Can We Keep It?
In the music industry, some artists are just natural; others come off as forced and more synthetic. Let’s be honest, as gorgeous as she is, Beyonce’ probably has to go through the cosmetic ringer in order to achieve all that televised glamour. She just doesn’t rise and shine with the beauty radiating through the screen. No knock on Miss Knowles, but Jill Scott and India Aria are examples of natural artists, not a single note or strand of hair forced or synthetic. In the era of “Nu Soul” music, naturalness is a concept that is widely embraced by the artist. Similar to the powerful lyrics and spellbinding notes of spoken word, their presentation invites us into a realm others are afraid to enter.
Acceptance in Popular Black Culture
When it comes to naturalness and pure beauty, the ongoing mission for acceptance is firmly rooted in today’s black culture. On the African American scene, the adornment and beautification of the body and hair have become essential components. This differs from traditional African societies where such cosmetic modifications have been ritualized within reason and context. In this environment, it is usually defined by social occasions that may denote something like the development from childhood to maturity or perhaps matrimony between partners. This certainly isn’t the case in the culture of gleam, bling and expensive things.
Flamboyancy has always been prevalent in modern African American communities and much of it can be directly attributed to black music. Even when N.W.A. popularized the gangsta style back in the1980s, the Dickies, Chuck Taylors, Raider hats and gold ropes were a symbol of status, a style that heavily influenced an entire culture of listeners. In these times, females were flanked with gold herringbones and bomber jackets complete with fur-trimmed hoods. When it came to accessories, there were no limits. The trends have gone from gold and platinum grills to an iced watch draped in Cartier shades. While the styles have suddenly changed with time, the lust for cosmetic appeal and fashion statements are perhaps even greater than before.
Keeping it Real with Soul
The new generation of soul music separates itself from other genres in virtually every facet, all made evident by the outer appearance of its artists. For the most part, the lineup of nu soulsters don’t bother with the iced out pieces, fancy duds and three thousand dollar non-prescription frames. You won’t find them wasting hours in the nail shop or cramped up all day in a makeup chair. Instead of expensive hairdos, they flaunt dreads and afros. Some just let their hair flow in whatever way it sees fit, rocking the natural style like nobody’s business. When looking a little closer, it is clear to see that the sons and daughters of Nu Soul aren’t seeking acceptance, yet going with the styles that suit them best - the gear and look they feel comfortable in. Their style speaks volumes, a unique appearance that truly embodies the aura of what outsiders have coined as “Neo Soul”.
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