peanAmericans according to census figures. Almost half of African American households are headedby single mothers and childredn, which 46.1 percent of struggle under the federal poverty line onless than $16,029. Health issues are major concern for African Americans. Aids is the thirdleading cause of deaths in the African American community. African Americans die at a higherrate from cancer and stroke. Obesity and high blood pressure affect African Americansdisproprtionately. African Americans today, are sitll overcoming many obstacles.Eryka Badu is the African American female revoluntionary singer of the present. Badusdistinctiveness is in her original style and individuality as a artist. With a unique look, wearingAfrican headwraps and ornate jewelry, Badu sings of self-identity and the ills of society. In hersong Apple Tree, Badu sings of friendship, self-respect and self-esteem.See I pick my friends like I pick my fruitGanny told me that when I was only a youthI dont walk around trying to be what Im notI dont waste my time trying to get what you gotI at pleasin meCause I cant please youAnd thats why I do what I doMy soul flies free like a willow treeDo wee do wee do wee In another song Other side of the Game, Badu addresses the trials brought on by crime andproverty in the African American community. Badu tells of her relationship with a drug dealersand her dilema of wheather to stay with him or not. Badus song brings symphathy to thissituation.Now me and baby got this situationSee brotha got this complex occupationAnd it aint that he dont have educationCause I was right there at his graduationNow I aint sayin that this life dont workBut its me and baby that he hurtsCause I tell him rightHe thinks Im wrongBut I love him strongWhatcha gonna do when they come for youWork aint honest but it pays the bills. Badu recognizes the power of her singing voice and uses it to advance the evolution of her race.Along with Erykah Badu,...
