‘I got it from my momma’
MANY ACROSS AMERICA are singing the catchy pop tune “I Got it From My Momma” from Black Eyed Peas member Will.I.Am. As inviting as this song may be to our party consciousness, we can discern quite more from this factually-based lyric.
Given the fact that our biological make-up is defined, in large part, by the genetic connection to our mothers, coupled with many of our psychological propensities and physiological dependencies, we can certainly, without pause, say, “I got it from my momma!”
Urban sociologists and criminal justice researchers are quick to conclude that there is a causal relationship between high incarceration rates of youth and natal alienation (a disconnect between parents and children).
There are some who believe that young men who grow up without a father fail to become strong and well-rounded men.
They argue that these boys tend to be overly-aggressive, immature and lack responsibility. Further, they suggest that young ladies, estranged from their fathers, are prey for smooth-talking men, who may have the inclination to exact a paternal chastisement on their bodies physically and sexually, while they incessantly seek for that “daddy” in their numerous male relationships.
But do we give the presence of our mothers enough credit? Kanye West does, and today he grieves the loss of his mother.
Donda West, Ph. D., focused on raising her talented son as a single mother in the African-American community, eventually becoming his manager, as he gained national attention as a new musical sensation.
True artists have the ability to appeal not only to our senses but also to our mind, and that is what Kanye, if taken seriously, accomplishes.
He may not have the alluring voice of a Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg or the late Biggie. He may not create flawless rhymes like a Jay-Z, Fabolous or Eminem. But in the tradition of the guys from Black Thought, Common, Pac, MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, KRS-One, Nas, et al., Kanye attempts to provide a scathing critique of our common consciousness and force us to wrestle with our own sense of right and wrong.
He pushes even the conscious rappers to a level of entertainment and psychic freedom that very few have done since 2Pac.
Kanye’s music, and life, seeks to uplift and sustain self and community while representing the best of creativity and individuality. Under his mother’s leadership of the Kanye West Foundation, its purposed goal is the education of those who may have slipped through the cracks of truancy, teen pregnancy and juvenile incarceration. His music, albeit consistent in the American fetish of materialism, resists the industry’s luring temptation of misogyny and challenges women to seek a better or “G.O.O.D” Life.
His mother, an English professor, instilled the power of language and metaphor into her son while sustaining his place in the unnerving streets of our inner-city (or “Keeping it Real”).
She, like millions of single mothers, deserves deep appreciation and intellectual respect, as she produced one of the most innovative and free-minded artists of our generation.
May God grant eternal rest to your soul and may your light continually shine in the life of your son, who influences us all.
Bless her life and the lives of all mothers, like mine Sandra, who demand excellence of their children.
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I think musically Kanye West is incredibly talented although I have heard of not so pleasant things about him off stage like how he is stuck up, it doesn’t affect my opinion about his music, because that’s just what I’ve heard word of mouth. However I think this article wasn’t meant for people to criticize or critique Kanye West’s music but rather it was intended for people to respond to the lyric, “I got it from my momma.” I feel the upbringings from our parents really have an impact on influencing the person we become as adults, not only biologically but personality, beliefs wise etc. Me personally I got a lot of things from my mama her beautiful smile, her outgoing personality, her ability to befriend anyone with welcome arms, it’s something to be proud of. I think when Fergie was writing this song she could have been thinking of either two things, one she wanted to write a song with meaning that people could relate to, or two, a song with a catchy phrase that could stick in someone’s mind quite easily.
I think musically Kanye West is incredibly talented although I have heard of not so pleasant things about him off stage like how he is stuck up, it doesn’t affect my opinion about his music, because that’s just what I’ve heard word of mouth. However I think this article wasn’t meant for people to criticize or critique Kanye West’s music but rather it was intended for people to respond to the lyric, “I got it from my momma.†I feel the upbringings from our parents really have an impact on influencing the person we become as adults, not only biologically but personality, beliefs wise etc. Me personally I got a lot of things from my mama her beautiful smile, her outgoing personality, her ability to befriend anyone with welcome arms, it’s something to be proud of. I think when Fergie was writing this song she could have been thinking of either two things, one she wanted to write a song with meaning that people could relate to, or two, a song with a catchy phrase that could stick in someone’s mind quite easily.
I have to agree with Caroline Dower when she states that, “I do not believe that this article was in any way a discussion as to the harms and benefits of rap music. The focus of the article was to first give credit to our mothers…” and more specifically this article is a tribute to Donda West. Dr. Bailey writes, “She, like millions of single mothers, deserves deep appreciation and intellectual respect, as she produced one of the most innovative and free-minded artists of our generation.” Dr. Bailey also points out that Kanye West is a son that always gave credit to his mother for how she raised him. For me this is where “the take home message” is because it made me wonder if I give enough credit to my mother. This article is not a debate on music, or whether or not Kanye’s music is good or bad. This article is a tribute to a woman that raised an articulate and intelligent son as a single mother and her accomplishments should be celebrated.
I have to agree with Caroline Dower when she states that, “I do not believe that this article was in any way a discussion as to the harms and benefits of rap music. The focus of the article was to first give credit to our mothers…†and more specifically this article is a tribute to Donda West. Dr. Bailey writes, “She, like millions of single mothers, deserves deep appreciation and intellectual respect, as she produced one of the most innovative and free-minded artists of our generation.†Dr. Bailey also points out that Kanye West is a son that always gave credit to his mother for how she raised him. For me this is where “the take home message†is because it made me wonder if I give enough credit to my mother. This article is not a debate on music, or whether or not Kanye’s music is good or bad. This article is a tribute to a woman that raised an articulate and intelligent son as a single mother and her accomplishments should be celebrated.
I find this article very interesting, but first I must admit that I had no clue what “I got it from my momma” was a from, until I asked around and looked pretty dumb to some people. Anyways, I definately agree with some of the other people who have said that this article is sort of a tribute to mother’s who raise their children in hope they will have a successful live. I don’t know who West is, but I am certain that her ultimate goal was to make a proud son and she certainly is because now he mours and is deeply devastated to have lost his mom. I also agree with Dr. Bailey when he mentions “…young ladies, estranged from their fathers, are prey for smooth-talking men, who may have the inclination to exact a paternal chastisement on their bodies physically and sexually, while they incessantly seek for that “daddy” in their numerous male relationships. I happen to know several young ladies who are caught in situations like this. Unfortunately they lack the sence of having a father and what it meant to have a male be protective of their young. When these women are in need of comfort or just guidance they seek for that strong minded and protective figure that in the end always ends up being a “father” figure that only takes advantage of them and eventually leaves them because they are weak, inmature individuals that cant live on their own,but constantly need the help of others. From this article I got to understand different interpretations of how people feel about rap, moms, and artist, but one thing I understand is that everyone has a good opinion and is probably based from where they came from and how they were raise. Thank you for taking the time to read this humble opinion…
I find this article very interesting, but first I must admit that I had no clue what “I got it from my momma” was a from, until I asked around and looked pretty dumb to some people. Anyways, I definately agree with some of the other people who have said that this article is sort of a tribute to mother’s who raise their children in hope they will have a successful live. I don’t know who West is, but I am certain that her ultimate goal was to make a proud son and she certainly is because now he mours and is deeply devastated to have lost his mom. I also agree with Dr. Bailey when he mentions “…young ladies, estranged from their fathers, are prey for smooth-talking men, who may have the inclination to exact a paternal chastisement on their bodies physically and sexually, while they incessantly seek for that “daddy†in their numerous male relationships. I happen to know several young ladies who are caught in situations like this. Unfortunately they lack the sence of having a father and what it meant to have a male be protective of their young. When these women are in need of comfort or just guidance they seek for that strong minded and protective figure that in the end always ends up being a “father” figure that only takes advantage of them and eventually leaves them because they are weak, inmature individuals that cant live on their own,but constantly need the help of others. From this article I got to understand different interpretations of how people feel about rap, moms, and artist, but one thing I understand is that everyone has a good opinion and is probably based from where they came from and how they were raise. Thank you for taking the time to read this humble opinion…
I must say that I agree with dr. Bailey. At first i thought that the article was about rap Music, but it has a different messagefrom I interpreted. from the article So we are talking about how some people are being raised. It is true that there are SOME males “who grow up without a father fail to become strong and well-rounded men” and we cant leave the females behind who grow up without a father figure and become “prey for smooth-talking men, who may have the inclination to exact a paternal chastisement on their bodies physically and sexually, while they incessantly seek for that “daddy” in their numerous male relationships.” Like all situations though, there are exceptions. I personally know a couple of people who went through many experiences that shaped their childhood in a very negative way. Today i look at them as inspirational people that have used that experience as a motivation to better themselves and not as an excuse for their misfortunes.
Apart from that idea of how everyone is raised differently and the effects it may or moay not have on the indiviual, the real message of this article was one that I totally agree with. That was the lack of APPRECIATION towards our parents. Well, in this article it emphasized our mothers. There are a lot of us who for some reason or another have single moms or married moms who “deserve deep appreciation and intellectual respect.” If you are not one of those who show appreciation to the person who has raised you to be who you are, perhaps this coming holiday would be a great opportunity to show you really care…
I must say that I agree with dr. Bailey. At first i thought that the article was about rap Music, but it has a different messagefrom I interpreted. from the article So we are talking about how some people are being raised. It is true that there are SOME males “who grow up without a father fail to become strong and well-rounded men” and we cant leave the females behind who grow up without a father figure and become “prey for smooth-talking men, who may have the inclination to exact a paternal chastisement on their bodies physically and sexually, while they incessantly seek for that “daddy†in their numerous male relationships.” Like all situations though, there are exceptions. I personally know a couple of people who went through many experiences that shaped their childhood in a very negative way. Today i look at them as inspirational people that have used that experience as a motivation to better themselves and not as an excuse for their misfortunes.
Apart from that idea of how everyone is raised differently and the effects it may or moay not have on the indiviual, the real message of this article was one that I totally agree with. That was the lack of APPRECIATION towards our parents. Well, in this article it emphasized our mothers. There are a lot of us who for some reason or another have single moms or married moms who “deserve deep appreciation and intellectual respect.” If you are not one of those who show appreciation to the person who has raised you to be who you are, perhaps this coming holiday would be a great opportunity to show you really care…
As I was reading the article I noticed that Dr. Bailey was talking about rap Music, but it had a different message. Dr. Bailey is talking about the ways single parents raise their children. It does not matter who raises you, but you have to be thankful to the person for whom you are.
As I was reading the article I noticed that Dr. Bailey was talking about rap Music, but it had a different message. Dr. Bailey is talking about the ways single parents raise their children. It does not matter who raises you, but you have to be thankful to the person for whom you are.
I think this is a very well written article. It truly shows in the case of kanye west how much influence his mom had on his life. Being a single mom she still made time for him and made the kind of man he is. As it says in the article his music insipres you to have a good life instead of killing somebody or cussing somebody out. Unlike some other music kanye west music stays in your mind and makes you thinks about it.
I think this is a very well written article. It truly shows in the case of kanye west how much influence his mom had on his life. Being a single mom she still made time for him and made the kind of man he is. As it says in the article his music insipres you to have a good life instead of killing somebody or cussing somebody out. Unlike some other music kanye west music stays in your mind and makes you thinks about it.
This article is very informative because it shows the reality that rap music is in. For example how it talks about a child that grows up with out a parent will be looking for this in other people. For example how it says a girl can be looking for a dad figure in any guy out their. The song is irrelevant it was just a mere example to say how you can get things from your parents as Kanye West got a lot of his creativity from his mom. If his mother was not an English professor he might be o totally different rapper.
This article is very informative because it shows the reality that rap music is in. For example how it talks about a child that grows up with out a parent will be looking for this in other people. For example how it says a girl can be looking for a dad figure in any guy out their. The song is irrelevant it was just a mere example to say how you can get things from your parents as Kanye West got a lot of his creativity from his mom. If his mother was not an English professor he might be o totally different rapper.
I strongly agree with Dr. Bailey when he states that “young men who grow up without a father fail to become strong and well-rounded men.” The lack of a strong parental figure in some instance leads to young violent criminals. It is not always the case but base on statistics which show that a young boy who lives without a paternal figure has high probabilities of been arrested by the age of 14. Boys who are grow up having a father have someone to look upon and to set an example to follow. I also agree when he says that single mother should be given more credit for all the hard work they do. Been a single mother is a challenging task and yet there are mothers that do an exceptional job. Child with only one parent should be very proud and lucky to have such a strong person in their lives.
Some time we get ashamed of our parents because of the way they dress or talk, forgetting that if it wasn’t for them we would not be here today. Part of what one is thanks to ones parents. One learns values, and principals from parents. Therefore one should be proud of our parents no matter what.
I strongly agree with Dr. Bailey when he states that “young men who grow up without a father fail to become strong and well-rounded men.†The lack of a strong parental figure in some instance leads to young violent criminals. It is not always the case but base on statistics which show that a young boy who lives without a paternal figure has high probabilities of been arrested by the age of 14. Boys who are grow up having a father have someone to look upon and to set an example to follow. I also agree when he says that single mother should be given more credit for all the hard work they do. Been a single mother is a challenging task and yet there are mothers that do an exceptional job. Child with only one parent should be very proud and lucky to have such a strong person in their lives.
Some time we get ashamed of our parents because of the way they dress or talk, forgetting that if it wasn’t for them we would not be here today. Part of what one is thanks to ones parents. One learns values, and principals from parents. Therefore one should be proud of our parents no matter what.
I really do not listen to rap or kenya West that much, but this article is part of many things. Part of the article is about the passing of Kenya’s mother, a women that can be seen as influencal to other women how are raising a child in a African-American Community but also in general how men and women act with just a single parent. I think it all depends; each family structure is different. The way the mother or father raises his or her kids will determine a great idea of how they will end up in their society. Single parents can play both the mother and father figure; it’s not easy and family members will have to be a big part of the raising, but like I said it all depends whether the parent has a good relationship with their children. Just because a boy did not have his father around does not mean that they will end up soft and fail the become strong, there are cases that a boy that does have a father present can become “soft” or “fail to be well-arounded,” it depends on the parents influence and teaching. So Kenya West’s mother from what I have been reading was a great women that did raise her son with manners and with the understand that language can be powerful.
I really do not listen to rap or kenya West that much, but this article is part of many things. Part of the article is about the passing of Kenya’s mother, a women that can be seen as influencal to other women how are raising a child in a African-American Community but also in general how men and women act with just a single parent. I think it all depends; each family structure is different. The way the mother or father raises his or her kids will determine a great idea of how they will end up in their society. Single parents can play both the mother and father figure; it’s not easy and family members will have to be a big part of the raising, but like I said it all depends whether the parent has a good relationship with their children. Just because a boy did not have his father around does not mean that they will end up soft and fail the become strong, there are cases that a boy that does have a father present can become “soft” or “fail to be well-arounded,” it depends on the parents influence and teaching. So Kenya West’s mother from what I have been reading was a great women that did raise her son with manners and with the understand that language can be powerful.
Yessir! It is often a misconception in the black community that single mothers are not capable of raising successful children and thus being the cause of the high incarcaration rates of our black youth. Though I was raised in a home with both mother and father present, others all around me weren’t as fortunate and I seen how much mothers can impact the life of a child. Some mothers, like Kanyes’, do whatever is necessary to seek a better life for their child providing them with the absolute best that is possible. However, other women, black or white, don’t know how to be a good mother like Keyshia Cole’s momma who was a drug attic during her Keyshia’s childhood. However, Keyshia being a prime example, many can fight through a bad childhood and make the best for themselves despite the drugs, the sex, and the violence present in these streets. So basically, a good mom is a great asset to a child’s life, but is not to blame for delinquent children.
Yessir! It is often a misconception in the black community that single mothers are not capable of raising successful children and thus being the cause of the high incarcaration rates of our black youth. Though I was raised in a home with both mother and father present, others all around me weren’t as fortunate and I seen how much mothers can impact the life of a child. Some mothers, like Kanyes’, do whatever is necessary to seek a better life for their child providing them with the absolute best that is possible. However, other women, black or white, don’t know how to be a good mother like Keyshia Cole’s momma who was a drug attic during her Keyshia’s childhood. However, Keyshia being a prime example, many can fight through a bad childhood and make the best for themselves despite the drugs, the sex, and the violence present in these streets. So basically, a good mom is a great asset to a child’s life, but is not to blame for delinquent children.
growing up without a father can have a big impact on the child, also other factors such as (peers, friends, community) around the child contribute to their growth. If the single mother is raising her child, she must contribute plenty of time to spend with the child. Even though it is a lot more difficult to grow up without a father figure, many have achieved and become successful in their lives with the help of others around them. single mother and single fathers who have raised their children should be credited because it is not easy to raise children on their own.
growing up without a father can have a big impact on the child, also other factors such as (peers, friends, community) around the child contribute to their growth. If the single mother is raising her child, she must contribute plenty of time to spend with the child. Even though it is a lot more difficult to grow up without a father figure, many have achieved and become successful in their lives with the help of others around them. single mother and single fathers who have raised their children should be credited because it is not easy to raise children on their own.
The issue of whether or not is is the case that parents influnece their childrens abilities and success can be argued from both sides. Sure we have all seen those who have succeeded from the push or encouragment of their parents and those that have faltered with out the guidence or absence of a parent. However, there are many people who have gone on to achieve greatness out of their own determination and will, and even those who did have a postive push or encouragment from their parents had to have had their own personal determination to succed as well. So is determination and drive a trait that is passed on from ones parents? Do we learn from the example of our parents? In addition though parents can also positively influence their children we must also be sure not to over push their limits such as those parents who have robbed their children of their childhoods in order for them to achieve over the top fame or success. We must positively encourage children to do their best and remind them that it must be what they want.
The issue of whether or not is is the case that parents influnece their childrens abilities and success can be argued from both sides. Sure we have all seen those who have succeeded from the push or encouragment of their parents and those that have faltered with out the guidence or absence of a parent. However, there are many people who have gone on to achieve greatness out of their own determination and will, and even those who did have a postive push or encouragment from their parents had to have had their own personal determination to succed as well. So is determination and drive a trait that is passed on from ones parents? Do we learn from the example of our parents? In addition though parents can also positively influence their children we must also be sure not to over push their limits such as those parents who have robbed their children of their childhoods in order for them to achieve over the top fame or success. We must positively encourage children to do their best and remind them that it must be what they want.
Music is a universal movement that makes a connection to everyone. though there are times when rappers such as the late 2Pac and Kanye west come around and begin a revolution that makes peoples head turn and actually pay attention to the content of the lyrics and look pass the fact that it is “RAP”.
Dr. Bailey asserst, “These artist have the ability to appeal not so to our senses but also to our mind…” 2Pac and Kanye west have accomplished that sense of ability and appeal. in their songs they mention their mother, and how important they have been in their life, whether it was positive or negative, and reenforced lyrical utterance and expression through “RAP” music.
These rapers did give credit to their mothers and have been succesful because the message they are tryign to say comes across cleanly. “She, like millions of single mothers, deserves deep appreciation and intellectual respect, as she produced one of the most innovative and free-minded artists of our generation” Kanye west is this artist just like 2pac was and is. without their mothers influence in their lives they would have probably not been the artist they are today.
Just like myself, i would not be me without the influence of my mother, shouts out to you mom (Luciana), and yes ” I got it from my Moma” :)
Music is a universal movement that makes a connection to everyone. though there are times when rappers such as the late 2Pac and Kanye west come around and begin a revolution that makes peoples head turn and actually pay attention to the content of the lyrics and look pass the fact that it is “RAP”.
Dr. Bailey asserst, “These artist have the ability to appeal not so to our senses but also to our mind…” 2Pac and Kanye west have accomplished that sense of ability and appeal. in their songs they mention their mother, and how important they have been in their life, whether it was positive or negative, and reenforced lyrical utterance and expression through “RAP” music.
These rapers did give credit to their mothers and have been succesful because the message they are tryign to say comes across cleanly. “She, like millions of single mothers, deserves deep appreciation and intellectual respect, as she produced one of the most innovative and free-minded artists of our generation” Kanye west is this artist just like 2pac was and is. without their mothers influence in their lives they would have probably not been the artist they are today.
Just like myself, i would not be me without the influence of my mother, shouts out to you mom (Luciana), and yes ” I got it from my Moma” :)
I thought this article was very well put together and interesting. I think it’s a good point that people always talk about children growing up without their fathers. What about the one’s with no mother?! It doesn’t really matter how many parents you have, as l;ong as you have someone who loves you and shows you the way. Some people grow up with both of their parents and turn out “bad”. Others only have one parent and they turn out amazing. Every story is different. All I know is that my life would not be the same if I didn’t have my father or my mother.
I thought this article was very well put together and interesting. I think it’s a good point that people always talk about children growing up without their fathers. What about the one’s with no mother?! It doesn’t really matter how many parents you have, as l;ong as you have someone who loves you and shows you the way. Some people grow up with both of their parents and turn out “bad”. Others only have one parent and they turn out amazing. Every story is different. All I know is that my life would not be the same if I didn’t have my father or my mother.
“There are some who believe that young men who grow up without a father fail to become strong and well-rounded men. ”
Individuals tend to think that the man is the one that wears the pants around the house. Why? simply because they are the man. But what happens if theres not a dad or a dad figure in the family?? The child is going to find someone else,whether its the mom in the household, or a father from another family. What I’m trying to say, is that yeah its true that by having a father figure in the family, it can make a diffrence in the household. Whether they are there to comfort and to give advice, it is always nice to have both. But what if that father doesn’t care for the family, is violent, and alcoholic?? A man can be a man without a father in the family, it just depends on what footsteps he followed through.
THis is a very deep article Dr. Bailey… may Kanye’s West mother R.I.P..
“There are some who believe that young men who grow up without a father fail to become strong and well-rounded men. ”
Individuals tend to think that the man is the one that wears the pants around the house. Why? simply because they are the man. But what happens if theres not a dad or a dad figure in the family?? The child is going to find someone else,whether its the mom in the household, or a father from another family. What I’m trying to say, is that yeah its true that by having a father figure in the family, it can make a diffrence in the household. Whether they are there to comfort and to give advice, it is always nice to have both. But what if that father doesn’t care for the family, is violent, and alcoholic?? A man can be a man without a father in the family, it just depends on what footsteps he followed through.
THis is a very deep article Dr. Bailey… may Kanye’s West mother R.I.P..
I rarly enjoy rap music, for me i take nothing from it except the “cool” beats ans sounds. But for the words and lyrics, i never connected rap music and lyrics that meant something. The truth is i did and still do find entertainment and words that mean somnething in his music, thats a true artist, not fake american idol. If his mother played that much of a roile in his and his music, the truth is i cant wait to hear in his music the role his mother will play in death. That does sound bad in a way, but maybe he can find the “it” people look for in music after his mothers death. In his worse times he may write his best music, and for ever mark his name a an artist not just a rapper.
I rarly enjoy rap music, for me i take nothing from it except the “cool” beats ans sounds. But for the words and lyrics, i never connected rap music and lyrics that meant something. The truth is i did and still do find entertainment and words that mean somnething in his music, thats a true artist, not fake american idol. If his mother played that much of a roile in his and his music, the truth is i cant wait to hear in his music the role his mother will play in death. That does sound bad in a way, but maybe he can find the “it” people look for in music after his mothers death. In his worse times he may write his best music, and for ever mark his name a an artist not just a rapper.
The American society looks at single mothers in the African American community through eyes that cannot even identify the struggle that mothers go through trying desperately to provide for their families. I personally do not believe that they even have a clue as to what these single mothers do to be able to provide for their children without the assistance of the fathers of the children. Since I was brought into this world both my mother and my father were always there for me. So this was not a struggle I am immediately able to understand, but I was able to see the struggle through the lives of the person around me and it showed me how hard it is for the single mothers out there. The persistent struggle of trying to guarantee the success of your children, praying that you were able to raise them to the best of their ability, along with the lectures and lessons mothers have given their children still leaves a question hanging up in the air? Will it be enough to help them throughout their lives? But it is very possible. For example, take a look at Donde West, mother of Kanye West, who was able to help mold him into the successful rap artist that he is today with out the help of his father. I won’t dare say that she alone is responsible for the man that Kanye has become today. Although I will say she had a great deal to do with it. She was able to raise such a successful young man all the while still focusing on her dreams and also being very successful herself. And honestly, I do not believe that single mothers get enough credit for all of the time and hard work they dedicate to ensure their kids are going to get the most out of life that they can.
The American society looks at single mothers in the African American community through eyes that cannot even identify the struggle that mothers go through trying desperately to provide for their families. I personally do not believe that they even have a clue as to what these single mothers do to be able to provide for their children without the assistance of the fathers of the children. Since I was brought into this world both my mother and my father were always there for me. So this was not a struggle I am immediately able to understand, but I was able to see the struggle through the lives of the person around me and it showed me how hard it is for the single mothers out there. The persistent struggle of trying to guarantee the success of your children, praying that you were able to raise them to the best of their ability, along with the lectures and lessons mothers have given their children still leaves a question hanging up in the air? Will it be enough to help them throughout their lives? But it is very possible. For example, take a look at Donde West, mother of Kanye West, who was able to help mold him into the successful rap artist that he is today with out the help of his father. I won’t dare say that she alone is responsible for the man that Kanye has become today. Although I will say she had a great deal to do with it. She was able to raise such a successful young man all the while still focusing on her dreams and also being very successful herself. And honestly, I do not believe that single mothers get enough credit for all of the time and hard work they dedicate to ensure their kids are going to get the most out of life that they can.
My prayers have gone out to Kanye and his family. My Mother and I are extremely close, and like the late Donda West my Mother has always supported me. Kanye’s loss will forever effect who he is, however he should never forget who is Mother raised him to be. Being a single Mom is a job no woman should have to “man-up to” however, with societies values and morals changing many many women have take on the role of both Mother and Father to their children. My hat and heart goes out to those strong independent women that make the effort to raise their children on their own. In Kanye’s case he turned out to be everything Donda expected.
I agree that his music has “something” special to it. No, his lyrics are not always life changing, you said it best when you said, “Kanye attempts to provide a scathing critique of our common consciousness and force us to wrestle with our own sense of right and wrong.” However, he is making a lot of money, his music is everywhere and he is a part of the 21st century and therefore, whether a person owns his CD’s or hates his guts, the fact remains, that he has made his mark. And, while most people see Kanye as a solo artist that performs alone, his manager, mother and main man supported him and succeed in getting him to where he is today.
Hopefully his loss will only help him further his career, because that’s what his Mother would have wanted. While his life will never be the same without her, he must realize that everything he has today, is due to her love. Donda West supported and loved her son, and because of that he has come so far. It is with dearest sincerity that I wish Kanye and his future the best, because the best is has yet to come.
My prayers have gone out to Kanye and his family. My Mother and I are extremely close, and like the late Donda West my Mother has always supported me. Kanye’s loss will forever effect who he is, however he should never forget who is Mother raised him to be. Being a single Mom is a job no woman should have to “man-up to†however, with societies values and morals changing many many women have take on the role of both Mother and Father to their children. My hat and heart goes out to those strong independent women that make the effort to raise their children on their own. In Kanye’s case he turned out to be everything Donda expected.
I agree that his music has “something†special to it. No, his lyrics are not always life changing, you said it best when you said, “Kanye attempts to provide a scathing critique of our common consciousness and force us to wrestle with our own sense of right and wrong.†However, he is making a lot of money, his music is everywhere and he is a part of the 21st century and therefore, whether a person owns his CD’s or hates his guts, the fact remains, that he has made his mark. And, while most people see Kanye as a solo artist that performs alone, his manager, mother and main man supported him and succeed in getting him to where he is today.
Hopefully his loss will only help him further his career, because that’s what his Mother would have wanted. While his life will never be the same without her, he must realize that everything he has today, is due to her love. Donda West supported and loved her son, and because of that he has come so far. It is with dearest sincerity that I wish Kanye and his future the best, because the best is has yet to come.
That is a great article. We do owe so much to mothers who show our youth how the world turns. A mother who takes the time to teach thier children right in a world that sometimes is just so wrong is the greatest impact in any ones life. It is wonderful that no matter what your background is and what nationalility one may be, we all have “got it” from our mothers. In some cases we may not want to have whatever it is that we got from our mothers but, we should embrace who we are. God Bless all the mothers out there who help us through this crazy world.
That is a great article. We do owe so much to mothers who show our youth how the world turns. A mother who takes the time to teach thier children right in a world that sometimes is just so wrong is the greatest impact in any ones life. It is wonderful that no matter what your background is and what nationalility one may be, we all have “got it” from our mothers. In some cases we may not want to have whatever it is that we got from our mothers but, we should embrace who we are. God Bless all the mothers out there who help us through this crazy world.
I believe this article is a way of letting people know that just because someone doesn’t grow up with two parents, doesn’t mean they will turn out “slipping through the cracks of truancy, teen pregnancy and juvenile incarceration.” I myself have grew up without a father figure in my life and I do have to disagree with the part of the article that says, “That young ladies, estranged from their fathers, are prey for smooth-talking men, who may have the inclination to exact a paternal chastisement on their bodies physically and sexually, while they incessantly seek for that “daddy” in their numerous male relationships.” Not having a father figure has made me want to do better in my life. Although, I know that in some cases people end up doing the opposite. My mother has been a very positive role model in my life and I am happy to say she is the reason I have succeeded so far in my career. It seems that Kanye West had a very strong role model in his life and now that she is gone I hope that he will continue succeeding in his career and keep following in her footsteps.
I believe this article is a way of letting people know that just because someone doesn’t grow up with two parents, doesn’t mean they will turn out “slipping through the cracks of truancy, teen pregnancy and juvenile incarceration.” I myself have grew up without a father figure in my life and I do have to disagree with the part of the article that says, “That young ladies, estranged from their fathers, are prey for smooth-talking men, who may have the inclination to exact a paternal chastisement on their bodies physically and sexually, while they incessantly seek for that “daddy” in their numerous male relationships.” Not having a father figure has made me want to do better in my life. Although, I know that in some cases people end up doing the opposite. My mother has been a very positive role model in my life and I am happy to say she is the reason I have succeeded so far in my career. It seems that Kanye West had a very strong role model in his life and now that she is gone I hope that he will continue succeeding in his career and keep following in her footsteps.
Nothing can possibly be more tragic than losing your mother. Kanye is one of the few rappers that avoids the mainstream messages such as violence, gang activity, and improvises how the “industry” is. The term “I got it from my momma” is just a slang that will be forgotten such as “dope” and “fresh”. Yes, we do inherit our parents genetics, but Will.I.Am just mocks it from a rappers point of view. Not all individuals who were raised without a father live a dangerous lifestyle. For example, some girls are just more susceptible to men who can be viewed as a father figure and at times can have their way with them. For boys, they tend to have a hatred for their father because of their abandonment. Kanye was raised by a great women who luckily did not abort him.
Nothing can possibly be more tragic than losing your mother. Kanye is one of the few rappers that avoids the mainstream messages such as violence, gang activity, and improvises how the “industry” is. The term “I got it from my momma” is just a slang that will be forgotten such as “dope” and “fresh”. Yes, we do inherit our parents genetics, but Will.I.Am just mocks it from a rappers point of view. Not all individuals who were raised without a father live a dangerous lifestyle. For example, some girls are just more susceptible to men who can be viewed as a father figure and at times can have their way with them. For boys, they tend to have a hatred for their father because of their abandonment. Kanye was raised by a great women who luckily did not abort him.
While I feel deep sorrow and sympathy for the West family, and respect Kanye on a lyrical and musical level, i question a few things. Miss West seemed to be a very intelligent, hardworking and dedicated mother and professional. However, i can not help but ask why she was seeking to alter her physical characteristics so desperately that she was willing to risk her life, which consequently was ended due to her own error in judgement? Was she caught up in living the g.o.o.d life of hollywood glamour? Had she fallen victom to the pressures of desiring that long gone youthful physique? If Kanye does in fact “get it from his momma” will he be subject to the same tragedy? No one is perfect, and we all make horrible decisions at times, but i do not know what the hell she was thinking!!!!
While I feel deep sorrow and sympathy for the West family, and respect Kanye on a lyrical and musical level, i question a few things. Miss West seemed to be a very intelligent, hardworking and dedicated mother and professional. However, i can not help but ask why she was seeking to alter her physical characteristics so desperately that she was willing to risk her life, which consequently was ended due to her own error in judgement? Was she caught up in living the g.o.o.d life of hollywood glamour? Had she fallen victom to the pressures of desiring that long gone youthful physique? If Kanye does in fact “get it from his momma” will he be subject to the same tragedy? No one is perfect, and we all make horrible decisions at times, but i do not know what the hell she was thinking!!!!
we sure do get it from our mama…our daddy too; whether just biologically or otherwise. whether you have had two parents, 1 parent, no parents, shity parents in your life..there comes a point in life when you grow the hell up and accept the choices and consequences you have paved for yourself. we ARE all creatures of circumstance..you and i could have just as easy been born in another place or another time, but @ what point do you take responsibility. None of us are free from pain…we’ve all had mountains to climb, rivers to swim… GET UP and dust yourself off. Learn more from your failures in life than successes! On the subject of rap & Kanye West….it’s okay..it sells..its more than fourties, blunts, and bitches. Its about making money and a little self-expression. music doesn’t make you violent …if your violent it aint from rap my friend …it’s you. peace & love…melissa
we sure do get it from our mama…our daddy too; whether just biologically or otherwise. whether you have had two parents, 1 parent, no parents, shity parents in your life..there comes a point in life when you grow the hell up and accept the choices and consequences you have paved for yourself. we ARE all creatures of circumstance..you and i could have just as easy been born in another place or another time, but @ what point do you take responsibility. None of us are free from pain…we’ve all had mountains to climb, rivers to swim… GET UP and dust yourself off. Learn more from your failures in life than successes! On the subject of rap & Kanye West….it’s okay..it sells..its more than fourties, blunts, and bitches. Its about making money and a little self-expression. music doesn’t make you violent …if your violent it aint from rap my friend …it’s you. peace & love…melissa
i got alittle off track and forgot to honor my mother. Beautiful Rosemary from a broken home found love in a man and in her belly, at thirteen she became a mother. despite being a child herself , she dedicated her life to being the best nurturing mama you could ever find. home room mama, girlscout leader mama, softball coach mama, she did it all! Always putting us first and herself second. i dread the day i lose my mom and i feel for kanye west..hopefully the leasons i’ve learned thus far from her, will continue to enrich my life. peace & love melissa
i got alittle off track and forgot to honor my mother. Beautiful Rosemary from a broken home found love in a man and in her belly, at thirteen she became a mother. despite being a child herself , she dedicated her life to being the best nurturing mama you could ever find. home room mama, girlscout leader mama, softball coach mama, she did it all! Always putting us first and herself second. i dread the day i lose my mom and i feel for kanye west..hopefully the leasons i’ve learned thus far from her, will continue to enrich my life. peace & love melissa
You have to respect what a single Mom does. In today’s society the poetry you hear the most is coming from individuals like Kanye. His songs aren’t the normal ones you hear about shaking your groove thing. Kanyes songs have deeper meanings. Kanyes Mom saw this spark and guided and motivated him to stay with his talent and that is something to be respected. Dr. Bailey did a good job of giving a Mother that raised her kid with a good head on his shoulders. Give some Respect to your Moms.
You have to respect what a single Mom does. In today’s society the poetry you hear the most is coming from individuals like Kanye. His songs aren’t the normal ones you hear about shaking your groove thing. Kanyes songs have deeper meanings. Kanyes Mom saw this spark and guided and motivated him to stay with his talent and that is something to be respected. Dr. Bailey did a good job of giving a Mother that raised her kid with a good head on his shoulders. Give some Respect to your Moms.