MEST4 Linked production: Research and planning

1) Confirm your production brief. You write this yourself but it's absolutely crucial this is clear, appropriate and achievable. 

The production will be based around themes of police brutality, the Black Lives Matter campaign and the oppression of black individuals.The production will be a music video, the song will be Sunkissed by Mick Jenkins. In terms of the length of the production it should be around 3-4 minutes. The aim of the film is to portray the various different Black identities while creating an aesthetic appeal which is a growing aspect within the music industry. The music video will be performance based.

2) Research: detailed notes on at least THREE texts similar to what you are creating. What are the key conventions? What can you learn/borrow from the examples you have looked at?

Kendrick Lamar: Alright  

This video has interesting post-production editing which may be useful when using after effects

Kendrick Lamar - King Kunta

This video has a large cast, something which we would like to mimic in our video to create a sense of community and to create various identities. 

Ant Deko - Right Hand Man

This video is filmed in one of our locations, and we would like to imitate some of their shots of the locations and the characters. 

Key conventions include an urban setting and various shots of the setting, with a protagonist (usually the actual musician) and often shots of ordinary people to create a sense of normality and identification. The music videos are in the style of a montage

3) Project schedule: when will you shoot and edit this production? Make this a week-by-week schedule leading up to Easter. 

Key dates: we break up for Easter on Friday 31 March and the final deadline is Wednesday 19 April.

The basis filming has been done. The filming including the cast should be completed by the break up of Easter and the editing will be completed by the first week of Easter.

Treatment planning

Outline

Artist name - Mick Jenkins
Song title - Sunkissed
Record label - Cinematic Music Group
Genre - Hip-Hop/Rap
Target audience - young people
Style of music video - performance

Overview/concept

The production will be a performance-based video offering different takes and representations on black culture that have and do exist. This will be done of course through the very lyrics of the song itself but also things like clothing items such as dashikis which will be worn by different people at different points within the video. It'll take place over a number of different locations with some of them featuring people in the background which is something that we're used to seeing in hip-hop/rap music videos of today. The locations that are shown in it will exhibit more of an urban look which a place like Alexandra Road Estate exemplifies particularly again, fitting into the conventions that we see rap music videos have.

Equipment and resources you will need

Tripod
Camera

5) Shot list - use Microsoft Word or a template like this to help you. Remember, you need a shot list whether you are filming or carrying out a print photoshoot - professional quality original images are essential if you want to reach the top level.

Producer: Ladan & Abayomi

Production:

Shot No.	Shot Type	Details of Shot	Timing
1	Medium shot	Blurry tree coming into focus	00:01
2	Medium shot	Cut to blossom tree	00:02
3	Hand Held shot	Another cut to blossom tree	00:04
4	Medium Shot	Abayomi sitting on bench	00:06
5	Right Angle shot	Abayomi rapping	00:09
6	Left Angle shot	Abayomi rapping	00:11
7	Long shot	Abayomi walking while rapping	00:15
8	Panning shot	Abayomi rapping	00:19
9	Tracking shot	Camera following the cast	00:22
10	Rotating shot	Abayomi rapping while walking	00:25
11	Handheld shot	Abayomi rapping	00:28
12	Medium shot	Abayami sitting with cast/rapping	00:32
13	Low angle shot	Abayomi rapping	00:34
14	Handheld	Camera following Abayomi	00:35
15	Tracking shot	Abayomi rapping	00:37
16	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	00:42
17	Handheld shot	Abayomi rapping	00:43
18	Slow motion shot	Abayomi walking	00:44
19	Long shot	Abayomi sitting down rapping	00:47
20	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	00:49
21	Long shot	Abayomi sitting down rapping	00:51
21	Slo mo	Abayomi walking	00:55
22	Low angle	Abayomi sitting down rapping	00:59
23	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	01:03
24	Medium shot	Shot of cast	01:02
25	Tilted shot	Back to Abayomi rapping	01:07

26	Low angle	Abayomi rapping	01:12
27	Hand held shot	Camera following cast	01:14
28	Tracking	Abayomi rapping	01:15
29	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	01:17
30	Long shot	Shot of London skyline at Primrose	01:19
31	Close up	Shot of one of the casts	01:22
32	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	01:26
33	Hand held	Camera following Abayomi rapping	01:29
34	Close up	Shot of one of the cast	01:32
35	Long shot	Shot of the whole cast/rapping	01:34
36	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	01:35
37	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	01:36
38	Hand Held shot	Camera following Abayomi	01:40
39	Low angle	Abayomi rapping	01:42
40	Panning shot	Camera following Abayomi	01:46
41	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	01:48
42	Panning shot	Abayomi sitting down rapping	01:53
43	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	01:57
44	Long shot	Shot of cast	02:00
45	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	02:03
46	Left Angle shot	Abayomi sitting down rapping	00:04
47	Hand held shot	Shot of cast	02:07
48	Hand held shot	Abayomi rapping	02:10
49	Right Angle shot	Abayomi rapping/with cast	02:13
50	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	02:16
51	Close up	Shot of character	02:22
52	Tracking shot	Following Abayomi rapping	02:24

53	Medium shot	Cast saying a few words of the song	02:25
54	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	02:26
55	Medium shot	Cast saying a few words of the song	02:30
56	Long shot	Abayomi rapping	02:32
57	Tracking shot	Abayomi rapping	02:34
58	Tracking shot	Camera behind cast following Abayomi	02:36
59	Hand held shot	Camera shot of cast with abayomi	02:39
60	Panning shot	Abayomi rapping	02:41
61	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	02:43
62	Medium shot	Shot of cast	02:45
63	Hand held shot	Abayomi rapping	02:46
64	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	02:47
65	Panning	Abayomi rapping	02:49
66	Hand held shot	Abayomi rapping	02:51
67	Medium shot	3 of the cast members together	02:53
68	Long shot	Camden estate, cast walking away	02:55
69	Hand Held shot	Abayomi rapping	02:57
70	Low angle shot	Abayomi rapping	03:00

71	Medium shot	Shot of cast together	03:02
72	Long shot	Shot of cast together	03:04
73	Long shot	Abayomi walking to camera rapping	03:05

74	Long shot	Shot of location	03:06
75	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	03:07
76	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	03:10
77	Long shot	Shot of cast	03:12
78	Tracking	Camera following Abayomi rapping	03:13
79	Hand held	Abayomi rapping	03:15
80	Hand held	Abayomi with cast	03:18
81	Hand held	Abayomi rapping	03:22

82	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	03:23
83	Slo mo	Black power fist pump with cast	03:25
84	Long shot	Cut back to Abayomi	03:27

85	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	03:29
86	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping with cast	03:31
87	close up	Close up of character 1	03:34
88	close up	Close up of character 2	03:36
89	close up	Close up of character 3	03:39
90	Medium shot	Back to Abayomi rapping	03:41
91	Close up	Close up of character 4	03:43
92	Long shot	Cast walking out of Leake street tunnel	03:45

93	Long shot	Cast at black history monument	03:47
94	Long shot	Abayomi rapping	03:49
95	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	03:52

96	Hand held	Camera following cast	03:56
97	Medium shot	Back to abayomi rapping	03:58
98	Medium shot	Abayomi rapping	03:59
99	Slow motion shot	Abayomi walking out	04:00
100	Long shot	All cast standing together	04:02

6) Mise-en-scene: casting/model details, costume and make-up, props, lighting, location scouting for video productions etc. Use photographs to document and plan your mise-en-scene - using your phone is acceptable for this.

Casting:

• Abayomi - Protagonist, the cast will be representatives of different black identities. 
• Sumaya
• Masika
• Rashida
• Ladan
• Julian 
• Sharife

Costume: 

• Urban, hoodies and so on. 
• BlackLivesMatter merchandise
• Cultural (Dashiki)
• Colour co-ordinated outfits by rest of cast e.g. all black. 

Locations:

• Walpole park
• Leake Street
• Camden (Primrose hill)
• Alexandra estate Camden
• Black history month momument

Location scouting with photographs

Leake Street - the graffiti on the walls has connotations of more of an anti-establishment culture which is something that could be said to be inherent in the subject matter of the song. Also from a more visual standpoint, the location could help provide a change to what we mostly see throughout the video

Canary Wharf - a time lapse of a shot of the Canary Wharf skyline could help the video from an aesthetics standpoint and bring home this idea of a fast-moving city plagued with a problem that most refuse to pay attention to which is the 'routine' discrimination of black people by the police. 

Gilt of Cain - sculpture in commemoration of the abolition of transatlantic slavery. This can be seen with the '17 sugar canes which rise dramatically from the ground surrounding a slave auctioneer’s pulpit.' These are too accompanied with a poem by Lemn Sissay which lends its name to the sculpture itself. Its appearance could potentially link into the black pride sentiment that the anti-police brutality topic could arguably be said to contain.

Alexandra Road Estate - aesthetically having looked at other music videos filmed here, a location like this could really help the video from a cinematography front with the more grimy look that the estate has.

Classroom - similarly to the Leake Street location selection, having a scene where the lyrics of the track are rapped along to in a classroom would help provide a difference to what see for the majority of the video. As well as this this, it could play into the line: 'Who's history's author, you was never right if you read it right,' if a prop like a history book was also used.

Primrose Hill - this location would act as a good complement to Walpole Park due to its London skyline and urban park atmosphere. 

Preliminary task evaluation

1) Why did you choose this particular recreation and how does it link to your main production?

We chose this particular recreation due to the lyrics of the song linking back to the main concepts that run through our coursework and our future production. The lyrics of the song are based on police brutality, which were discussed in both of our individual courseworks. 
2) What difficulties did you face in producing this recreation?

Some of the difficulties we faced were making sure the shot were exact during the filming and also editing as there were over 20 cuts that were quite fast paced. Also, we had to ensure that the music was in sequence with the video to make it more accurate.
3) What are the strengths of the production?

I believe one of the strengths was the filming, as nearly all the shots looked exactly the same as the original music video. Furthermore, the editing was quite precise with the cuts to create the same effects as the original. The actual planning of the recreation was also a strength as it enabled us to film our recreation effectively. 
4) What aspects would you look to improve?

I believe that the camera movement could have been more advanced, as there were various angles and panning techniques used which were quite difficult to recreate.

5) What lessons will you take from this process that will help you with your main production?

I believe that the concept of planning in detail would be even more useful in our main production as it has helped quite a lot in the process. Also, I feel as if we need to be more experimental in terms of camera techniques, as we have come across good ones due to the recreation of the video. 

6) Now that you are ready to start your actual linked production, explain clearly what you will be creating and how confident you are in delivering this.

We will be creating a linked production video based on the song "Hands up" by Vince Staples, which discusses the issue of police brutality. I feel quite confident in terms of delivering a music video of high standards. 

Preliminary task video

Preliminary exercise: Recreation task

Name of the text you plan to recreate: 

Vince Staples -Norf Norf

Scene/section you will recreate:

1:35-2:05 - The protagonist is being interrogated by the police officers, who then use excessive force against him

Location you will use for your recreation:
An office or small room in the school

Actors you will require for your recreation:
Callum, Abayomi, Julian

Props/costumes you will require for your recreation:

• Shirts and ties in the style of investigators/badges
• Black top that says "deadline"
• Fake narcotic packages
• Desk
• Gun

Equipment you plan to use:

• Camera
• tripod
• Low-key lighting

Any other relevant information:

We need a room with blinds such as those in the video

MEST4: Linked Production planning

Writing your own Linked Production brief

Your Critical Investigation topic:

Police brutality/Black Lives Matter/Oppression 

Your Linked Production brief:

A Music video, the song will be Hands Up by Vince Staples

Length/size of production (e.g. 3 minutes, 5 pages etc.): 

3-4 minutes

Give an example of an existing media text this is similar to what you plan to produce: 

Beyonce's Lemonade, Kendrick Lamar - Alright, 

Give an example of an institution that would produce or distribute your planned production:

Music labels such as TDE or Pro Era, as they usually discuss issues such as these in their music

How would your production reach its audience?

The production would reach our audience through social networking sites such as Twitter, where a production can easily go viral. It will also be posted on youtube so it can be shared

Who do you plan to work with on this project?

Abayomi 

media essay

How far does Beyoncé’s visual album Lemonade promote the views and values of Black Feminism?

“The most disrespected person in America is the black woman” – Malcolm X

Black Feminism is a feminist concept and school of thought which flourished in the 60’s, yet it has often been disregarded due to its lack of authenticity over the preferable mainstream form of feminism. One may ask what the differences between these two similar concepts are; the answer is simply racial privilege. Racial privilege has allowed white women to have an increased ability to challenge gender-based oppression, while still maintaining access and freedoms whereas women of colour were routinely denied. Institutionalised racism, misogyny and oppression within our societies have placed black women at the bottom of the social hierarchy, making them victims to the discriminative societal standards. Crenshaw’s Intersectionality theory[1] epitomises the difficulties of black women; they cannot differentiate race from class and sex oppression due to the fact that they experience them simultaneously.  Black Feminism is more than simply empowering women, its roots lie in the struggle and oppression black women have been facing for centuries. Black Feminism as a political and social movement ultimately symbolises their right to be liberated from the harsh standards that have been implemented on them.  Beyoncé has conveyed these struggles through her recent 2016 visual album “Lemonade”, which highlights the various struggles that black women face while also embracing the successes of black women.  Often regarded as an advocate for mainstream Black Feminism, Beyoncé has reached global success with her album, sparking several discussions on the issue and increasing social awareness. Nevertheless, the extent of this portrayal is arguable, and this essay will outline the various connections between the two through the exploration of Beyoncé’s text and the complexities of Black Feminism. 

The concept of Black Feminism itself has various interpretations, and whether Beyoncé is an advocate for feminism is debatable. Firstly, Black Feminism itself comes in many forms and feminists across America have been debating this form of feminism Beyoncé proclaims, and whether or not it really is feminism[2]. The term “Bey feminism” has been coined to describe this phenomenon, Beyoncé’s form of feminism provides black women a way of negotiating, co-creating, reinforcing and challenging their identities as black women in American society[3]. This form of feminism is predominant in Lemonade, as Beyoncé encourages her audience to embrace their identities and appreciate their worth. In terms of traditional Black Feminism, Collin states that Black Feminism is a critical social theory that “aims to empower African American women within the context of social injustice sustained by intersection oppressions”[4], whereas Berg defines feminism as “a broad movement embracing numerous phases of women’s emancipation”[5]. This highlights the complexities of feminism as some believe that feminism should be broad and encompass many different perspectives while others feel that feminism should be specific and detailed[6]. Prominent feminist Bell Hooks argues that Beyoncé’s construction of feminism cannot be trusted. “Her vision of feminism does not call for an end to patriarchal domination. It’s all about insisting on equal rights for men and women.”[7].  Yet, it could be argued that Beyoncé is simply using her influence and power to address these major issues. Therefore, it can be interpreted to suggest that Beyoncé is promoting the views of Black Feminism, as they are addressing the problems black women face. Despite her criticisms, Hooks praises Beyoncé for providing her audience with “the construction of a powerfully symbolic black female sisterhood that resists invisibility… that refuses to be silent and this in and of itself is no small feat—it shifts the gaze of white mainstream culture”[8]. Secondly, the visual album carries themes of empowering black women and the harsh experiences they have faced, indicating at the link with Black Feminism in terms of empowering women and bringing to light their struggles. Lemonade intertwines the various aspects of Black Feminism through its narrative and visuals to provide the audience with an insight into the lives of black American women and the ideology of black womanhood. A certain conclusion that one can come to in regards to the importance of Black Feminism is that “no intervention changed the face of American feminism more than the demand of feminist thinkers acknowledging the reality of race and racism”[9], and that Lemonade has to an extent represented these views.

Lemonade as a visual album is striking and thought-provoking when explored in depth. The visual album is in the form of a documentary narrative which is organised into 11 chapters. Each chapter has an introduction either through a poem or direct dialogue, thus allowing the audience to have an understanding of the atmosphere of the chapter, the meaning behind it and its theme. Some of the most prominent and major themes in the narrative connect to the emotions of anger, regret, pain but also survival and happiness. The narrative style of the visual album can be explained through Todorov’s theory of equilibrium, as we see Beyoncé in a state of disequilibrium and her eventual new equilibrium. This indicates at the idea of there being ease after all hardships.

Anger is a key chapter, which reflects on women feeling the need to change their identity to fit into a patriarchal society that meets the expectations of men. This links back to the concept of Misogynoir, coined by Black feminist Moya Bailey to describe the misogyny directed towards black women where race and gender both play roles in bias[10]. The poem at the start of Anger juxtaposes the shots of cheerleaders, creating a sinister atmosphere “If this what you truly want, I can wear her skin...over mine”. This could be interpreted to represent a façade, a concealment of one’s true identity to satisfy others, which is a growing issue amongst women in society. The song in this chapter “Don’t Hurt Yourself” has a bitter tone due to her marital breakdown, in which Beyoncé is seen reassuring herself and empowering herself “I am the dragon breathing fire… I am not broken, I'm not crying, I'm not crying”. This highlights her resilience, independence and strength as a black woman, which carries the philosophy of Black Feminism, in return it will inspire her audience. Beyoncé is seen wearing an oversized fur jacket, which illuminates power and authority, an image which is not often connoted with women but one that Black Feminism is attempting to get out there. There is a reference to Malcom x through a voiceover of his famous speech. "The most disrespected person in America is the black woman. The most unprotected person in America is the black woman. The most neglected person in America is the black woman." This epitomises the struggle of black women, the fact that this speech is over fifty years old emphasises on the relevance of Black Feminism and the timelessness of these reoccurring issues. This is portrayed alongside shots of ordinary black women in background, which creates a sense of normality and self-identification. The song is ultimately radical while also heartfelt, carrying not only an aesthetic appeal but also a motivational one. It could be suggested that Lemonade is a product of post-colonial feminism as a response to feminism which Is seemingly focused solely on the experiences of women in Western cultures[11], as Lemonade instead focuses on the experiences of Black women.

The chapter “Resurrection” is also vital in understanding the concept of Black Feminism, as it suggests at the rebirth of Beyoncé’s true identity. The song “Forward” features a deeply cathartic memorial to the black male lives lost throughout history, honoured by the women who raised them, both literally and symbolically[12]. The scene that accompanies the song is powerful and would resonate with the audience due its sentimental tone. The audience see the mothers of the murdered sons, Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and Michael Brown holding their photos.  This links to the growing issue of police brutality and the weaknesses of the system. The use of cameos from the mothers of the children who have died due to police brutality allows audiences who have experienced police brutality to relate and form personal relationships or identify themselves amongst the characters (Uses and Gratifications). In terms of iconography, the major themes of Lemonade are portrayed effectively. For example, the use of tribal painting as seen on Beyoncé in her song “Sorry” links back to the concept of black women loving themselves and their cultural roots, and to not be ashamed of their identity. This is also represented throughout Lemonade as we come across various dancers wearing their hair in cultural afros and braids. Iconography is prominent in Formation. The history of the Black Panther Party and its portrayal through the costume worn by Beyoncé links to the origins of Black Feminism and the unrest in America during the 1960's. The Black Panthers style of clothing is iconic in the world of cinema, due to the increase of Blaxploitation in the 70’s, thus making their image easily recognisable amongst the mainstream audience. More importantly, the extended shot of a child dancing in front of a row of riot police before the camera cuts to graffiti reading “STOP SHOOTING US” highlights the subject of police brutality and the significance of this issue in society. Movements such as Black Feminism are fighting against this form of oppression and for Beyoncé to refer to it in Lemonade emphasises on the link between the concept and her visual album. As suggested by Ball, “Formation” seeks not only to clarify Beyoncé’s proximity to her racial identity but also to make that identification less linear by highlighting a wide range of voices, styles, and experiences[13]. The use of cameos from various talented people of colour is also another key feature of the visual album. The album features cameos of British-Somali poet Warsan Shire. Serena Williams and a number of young, black celebrities, such as Zendaya, Amandla Stenberg and Quvenzhané Wallis. The use of significant black personalities showcases black talent, the promotion of black individuals and their creativity provides a platform for appreciation of various identities which would otherwise not be acknowledged to take place. As noted by Emerson, “Blackness does not carry a negative connotation. Instead, it is the basis for strength, power, and a positive self-identity. Darker skin is privileged among Black women artists, actresses, models, and dancers”[14].

Beyoncé’s ownership of her own label, Parkwood Entertainment, indicates at her influence on the album due to the fact she has ultimate the control over the content of her music. This is evident through the discussion of controversial topics such as Black Feminism, misogyny, and society’s ever-present racial tensions. The album was released exclusively on Tidal first, reeling in $50 million in revenue over the course of the single weekend, highlighting the success of the album in reaching mainstream audiences. The majority of the mainstream audience have responded in a positive manner towards Lemonade, despite its controversies. Yet there were some criticisms, notably from Piers Morgan, who states that he “preferred the old Beyoncé. The less inflammatory, agitating one. The one who didn’t use grieving mothers to shift records and further fill her already massively enriched purse”[15]. This hints at the criticisms of Beyoncé for being inauthentic in her cause by using feminism and women’s issues only as a means to sell albums[16]. However, it could be argued that Beyoncé is merely only using her influence as an artist to raise awareness on movements such as Black Feminism and the empowerment of women.

The music industry as a whole has evolved over the past decades, as more artists are breaking the boundaries of music in the digital age to produce politically fuelled albums which address issues that would otherwise be dismissed in the mainstream news. Music from the 80’s and 90’s has been an inspiration for many modern artists, as elements of N.W.A, Erykah Badu and A Tribe Called Quest, which would often discuss racial tensions are present in the content produced by todays artists.  This can be represented through artists such as Kendrick Lamar whose album To Pimp a Butterfly, explored a variety of political and personal themes concerning African-American culture, racial inequality, and institutional discrimination[17]. Similarly, R&B artist Solange released an album with a social relevance in terms of black oppression. Financial Times critic Ludovic Hunter-Tilney said like Beyoncé's Lemonade album, "A Seat at the Table explores themes of prejudice and blackness”[18]

Music has become a platform for artists to use their strengths and social influences to highlight issues through their mass appeal and in theory, allowing the two-step flow model to take place. Beyoncé has managed to effectively portray the values of Black Feminism to the mainstream audience. Her attempts to reinscribe feminist sensibilities in her music have had an impact on popular culture[19], perhaps even altering the views of those who did not believe in the existence of black oppression.

Fundamentally, Black Feminism is growing as a movement and it is still relevant today. The concept of Black Feminism has transformed, even evolved as an ideology. It has been projected through current movements and also the artistry of Beyoncé. Hooks suggests that the breakthrough in denial about race helped women face reality of difference on all levels, thus allowing for a movement that did not place the class interests of privileged women, especially white women, over that of all other women[20]. This can be represented through social media, which has been a major aspect in the success of not only Lemonade but also the movements that have been referenced throughout Lemonade. The growing phenomena of social media and its power as a platform is revealed by Professor of American and English Literature, Paul Gilroy. Gilroy suggests that race has become a marker for the activity of urban social movements and their conflict with urban political systems and state institutions[21], this highlights the correlation between the rise in social movements and the growing discontent of minority populations, which is one of the many issues addressed by Lemonade. Gilroy’s hypothesis can be applied to the BLACK LIVES MATTER movement, an ideological and political movement for Black lives that are systematically and intentionally targeted for demise[22]. The movement has sparked several protests against current issues such as police brutality, and has seen many join the fight against black oppression within the system and anti-black racism.  The rhetoric’s of current movements such as Black Lives Matter and political movements of the past, such as the Black Panther Party, have been a focus point throughout Lemonade, yet this has been asserted through the song Formation in terms of mise-en-scene (graffiti asking America to “stop shooting us” and also the costumes of the dancers which are in the edgy leather style of the Black Panther Party). This suggests that the past and present of black people and women interconnect, and Lemonade shows this by highlighting the continuing struggle black women have been facing over the decades, thus demonstrating the relevance of Black Feminism today.  In terms of the extent of portrayal of the various identities of black women, aspects such as race, gender and sexuality are intersectional in Lemonade, and this conveys a sense of acceptance and pride while also encouraging black women to overcome their struggles through unity. As a result, Lemonade becomes appealing due to it reaching out to all the unheard inferior voices of America, the suffering and the hopeless. This is demonstrated through the portrayal of Beyoncé as a black woman engaging with the rhetoric of Black Lives Matter[23] and Black Power. The narrative of Lemonade creates a platform in which the identity that would often be shunned, as illustrated through the expressive traditional attire and natural hair, is appreciated and admired. Lemonade is a bold statement that our identities are a combination of our past and present, and that black women need to unite under these aspects to create a better future, a hopeful one as portrayed through the ending chapter of Lemonade. This is where Black Feminism and Lemonade meet to create the ultimate message that being black means beauty, strength, endurance and harmony. Whether Black Feminism is under threat due to changing sphere of politics is debatable. The aftermath of Donald Trump’s election has resulted in an increase of racist incidents[24], which provides to be a threat to the safety of not only black women but all minority ethnic groups. Nevertheless, the concept of Black Feminism and the popularity of social movements fighting for the protection of rights for minorities are growing in strength and sustainability, and the surge in social awareness suggests that these movements are unlikely to die out.

Overall, Beyoncé’s Lemonade and Black Feminism go hand in hand in the representation of the struggles of Black women throughout history. Lemonade is ultimately a symbol, crafted to portray the struggles of black women and their desire for freedom from societies hierarchy. Beyoncé has successfully portrayed the concept of Black Feminism, through struggle and eventual freedom. As they say, if life gives you lemons, make Lemonade.

---

[1] Intersectionality (2016, December 27). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopaedia. Retrieved 05:43, December 27, 2016, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Intersectionality&oldid=756850503

[2]Adria Y. Goldman, VaNatta S. Ford, Alexa A. Harris, Natasha R. Howard Black Women and Popular Culture: The Conversation Continues (Lexington Books, 30 Jul 2014) Pg. 156

[3] Ibid. Pg. 157

[4] Hill Collins Black Feminist thought (Routledge, 7 Dec 1999) pg.22

[5] Adria Y. Goldman, VaNatta S. Ford, Alexa A. Harris, Natasha R. Howard Black Women and Popular Culture: The Conversation Continues (Lexington Books, 30 Jul 2014) Pg. 159

[6] Ibid. pg.158

[7]Bell Hooks, Moving Beyond Pain http://www.bellhooksinstitute.com/blog/2016/5/9/moving-beyond-pain Accessed: 29 December 2016

[8] Ibid

[9] Bell Hooks Feminism is for Everybody (Pluto Press, 1 Apr 2020) Pg.55

[10] Misogynoir. (2016, October 11). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopaedia. Retrieved 06:21, October 11, 2016, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Misogynoir&oldid=743779348

[11] Postcolonial feminism. (2016, December 24). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopaedia. Retrieved 19:57, December 24, 2016, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Postcolonial_feminism&oldid=756510169

[12]  Dee Locket Everything You Need to Know About Beyoncé’s New Visual Album, Lemonade Vulture http://www.vulture.com/2016/04/your-guide-to-beyonces-lemonade-album.html

[13] Kevin Ball Beyoncé’s Formation Film Criticism http://quod.lib.umich.edu/f/fc/13761232.0040.309/--beyonce-s-formation?rgn=main;view=fulltext

[14] Rana. A. Emerson “WHERE MY GIRLS AT?” Negotiating Black Womanhood in Music Videos (Sage Publications, Feb 2002)

[15] Piers Morgan the born-again-black woman with a political mission MailOnline http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3557867/PIERS-MORGAN-Jay-Z-s-not-one-needs-nervous-Beyonce-born-black-woman-political-mission.html

[16] Adria Y. Goldman, VaNatta S. Ford, Alexa A. Harris, Natasha R. Howard Black Women and Popular Culture: The Conversation Continues (Lexington Books, 30 Jul 2014) Pg. 160

[17]To Pimp a Butterfly. (2016, December 26). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopaedia. Retrieved 04:53, December 26, 2016, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=To_Pimp_a_Butterfly&oldid=756688942

[18] Hunter-Tilney, Ludovic (October 7, 2016). "Solange Knowles: A Seat at the Table — review". Financial Times. Retrieved October 29, 2016

[19] Adria Y. Goldman, VaNatta S. Ford, Alexa A. Harris, Natasha R. Howard Black Women and Popular Culture: The Conversation Continues (Lexington Books, 30 Jul 2014) Pg. 155

[20] Bell Hooks Feminism is for Everybody (Pluto Press, 1 Apr 2020) Pg.58

[21] Paul Gilroy There Ain't no Black in the Union Jack (University of Chicago Press, Dec 1991)

[22]BlackLivesMatter http://blacklivesmatter.com/about/

[23] Hunter Harris Beyoncé’s ‘Lemonade’ is a Celebration of Black Identity http://www.indiewire.com/2016/04/beyonces-lemonade-is-a-celebration-of-black-identity-analysis-289327/

[24] Katie Reilly Racist Incidents Are Up Since Donald Trump’s Election. http://time.com/4569129/racist-anti-semitic-incidents-donald-trump/

Essay Plan

Question

How far does Beyonce's visual album Lemonade promote the views and values of Black Feminism 

Introduction: (270 words)

• Brief discussion of black feminism and Beyonce's lemonade, leading into first section.

Black feminism is a feminist concept and school of thought which flourished in the 60’s, yet it has often been disregarded due to its lack of authenticity over the preferable mainstream form of Feminism. One may ask what the differences between these two similar concepts are; the answer is simply racial privilege. Racial privilege has allowed white women to have an increased ability to challenge gender-based oppression, while still maintaining access and freedoms whereas women of colour were routinely denied. Institutionalised racism, misogyny and oppression within our societies have placed black women at the bottom of the social hierarchy, making them victims to the discriminative societal standards. Crenshaw’s intersectionality theory epitomises the difficulties of black women; they cannot differentiate race from class and sex oppression due to the fact that they experience them simultaneously.  Black feminism is more than simply empowering women, its roots lie in the struggle and oppression black women have been facing for centuries. Black feminism as a political and social movement ultimately symbolises their right to be liberated from the harsh standards that have been implemented on them.  Beyoncé has conveyed these struggles through her recent 2016 visual album “Lemonade”, which highlights the various struggles that black women face while also embracing the beauty of black women.  Often regarded as an advocate for mainstream Black feminism, Beyoncé has reached global success with her album, sparking several discussions on the issue and increasing social awareness. Nevertheless, the extent of this portrayal is debatable, and this essay will outline the various connections between the two through the exploration of Beyoncé’s text and the complexities of Black feminism. 

Qoutes

• "Black feminism is a critical social theory that "aims to empower african american women within the context of social injustice sustained by intersecting oppressions" (pg 157) Patricia collin
• "Everyday black women are embracing bey feminism as a way of "negotiating, co-creating, reinforcing and challenging" their identities as black women in American society." 

Section 1: Black Feminism and connection between Lemonade (300 words )

• What is Black Feminism 
• Brief summary of Lemonade 
• Interpretations of Black Feminism and its connection to Lemonade 

Qoutes 

• No intervention changed the face of American feminism more than the demand of feminist thinkers acknowledge the reality of race and racism” pg 55
• "Feminists across America have been debating this form of feminism beyonce proclaims, and whether or not it really is feminism" (156)

Books to refer to: "Bey feminism" vs. Black feminism 

Articles: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/wp/2016/05/11/beyonce-and-lemonade-are-giving-these-feminist-scholars-so-much-to-debate/?utm_term=.74e1401dcd5b

Section 2A: Textual analysis (500 words) 

• Key chapters and analysis, their connection to Black Feminism 
• Representation of ethnicity, cameos 

Theories to use: Uses and gratifications, Alvardo representation of ethnicity, 

Analysis of chapters: Anger, Forgiveness, Formation, Apathy, Forward

Qoutes:

• "If there was any confusion about Beyonces affiliation with her racial identity, "Formation" seeks not to only clarify her promixity.." (Kevin balls article) 
• "Blackness does not carry a negative connotation. Instead, it is the basis for strength, power, and a positive self-identity. Darker skin is privileged among Black women artists, actresses, models, and dancers in the videos. Thirty of the videos featured women with darker complexions or a combination of lighter and darker skinned women. This was an especially interesting finding after the controversies of the 1980s and 1990s about the frequent use of light-skinned women in music videos, which was criticized for valuing a white standard of beauty (Morgan 1999)" (Scholary article) 

Articles: 

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/feb/08/beyonce-formation-black-american-narrative-the-margins 

https://www.thrillist.com/entertainment/nation/beyonce-lemonade-movie-references-connections-and-secrets

Genre: http://www.bustle.com/articles/156634-beyonces-lemonade-has-8-musical-genres-you-need-to-hear-them-all

Section 2B: Historical context (300 words) 

• Black Panther Movement, its portrayal in Formation 
• Roots of Black feminism 
• Slavery, its portrayal in one of her songs 
• Documentaries + interviews (Black Panthers, vanguard of the revolution)
• 
  

Relevant theories: Intersectionality theory, womanism theory 

Qoutes: 

• “Within the institutionalized race, sex, class social systems in our society black females were clearly at the bottom of the economic totem pole. Initially well-educated white women from working-class backgrounds were more visible than black females of all classes in feminist movement. They were the minority within the movement, but theirs was a voice of experience” pg40 (Bell hooks)

Articles:

• http://www.hamptoninstitution.org/black-feminist-thought.html#.V-5tQPmAOkocheck

Section 3: Music industry, institutions and other artists (500 words) 

• Beyonce's capability as an artist, her record label and its advantages 
• Institutionalised racism 
• Criticisms of Lemonade 
• Marketing strategies 
• Other examples of artists: Solange & Kendrick Lamar 

Qoutes to use: 

• "Beyonce reinscribes feminist sensibilities in her music which impact popular culture" (155) 
• "Some believe that she is inauthentic in her cause and is using feminism and womens issues only as a means to sell albums" (160) 
• "Peterson and Berger saw musical culture as being cyclical, with pop music beginning on the street as a genuine artistic creation acting in resistance to dominant culture and the alienation or oppression felt by those outside the mainstream. They observed that, as new music gains an audience, it is taken by the recording companies, repackaged and sanitised to create music with mass appeal" (Media magazine article) 

Criticisms: Piers Morgan

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3557867/PIERS-MORGAN-Jay-Z-s-not-one-needs-nervous-Beyonce-born-black-woman-political-mission.html

Relevant theories: Misogynoir, Black music (Paul Gilroy), Post colonialism (feminist version). Blaxploitation 

Scholary works: "Where My Girls At?": Negotiating Black Womanhood in Music Videos

Articles:

• institutionalracisim-popculture.weebly.com/music-industry.html
• Director of Lemonade: https://i-d.vice.com/en_us/article/is-kahlil-joseph-hip-hops-most-important-video-director

Section 4: Black Feminism today (500 words) 

• Identities, how far does Lemonade convey these identities 
• Is it still a current movement, Black Lives Matter and so on 
• What impact has feminism had in America, Uk? 

Qoutes to use: 

• “Critical interventions around race did not destroy the women’s movement; it became stronger. Breaking through denial about race helped women face reality of difference on all levels. And we were finally putting in place a movement that did not place the class interests of privileged women, especially white women, over that of all other women.” pg58 (Bell Hooks) 
• Race has become a marker for the activity of urban social movements and their conflict with urban political systems and state institutions pg312 (Paul gilroy) 

Articles:

• http://www.indiewire.com/2016/04/beyonces-lemonade-is-a-celebration-of-black-identity-analysis-289327 
• https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/dec/09/black-feminist-movement-fails-women-black-minority 

Conclusion: (100 words)

• Extent of portrayal of black feminism,