JAY-Z’s Footnotes for ‘The Story of O.J.’ Explores Being Black in America [VIDEO]
JAY-Z’s latest 4:44 album is undoubtedly one of the most talked about rap albums on social media. There have been several think pieces, reviews and commentary on the project. One of the most interesting songs on the album is “The Story of O.J.” where Hov’s talks about capitalism and the economy disparity among black people.
One of the most memorable lines on the song is “O.J. says, ‘I’m not black, I’m O.J….Okay.” This is in reference to those who believe that if you become rich and successful you are above the culture and you don't see racism. This is certainly not true, just ask Tiger Woods.
JAY-Z released a powerful commentary video for “Story of O.J.,” which explores what it means to be black in America. “We tend to, as black people — because we never had anything, which is understandable — we get to a place, and we just think we separate ourselves from the culture,” says JAY-Z in the film (via EW.com).
“Like O.J. would get to a space where he’s like, ‘I’m not black, I’m O.J.’ Like Tiger Woods would get to a space and think, ‘I’m above the culture,’" he continued. "And that same person when he’s playing golf and playing great, you’re protected. When you’re not, they’re gonna put pictures of you drunk driving and, like, embarrass you. That world will eat you up and spit you out.”
Celebrities like Will Smith, Chris Rock, Kendrick Lamar, and Trevor Noah also appear in the "Footnotes for The Story of O.J." detailing their experience with being black in America.
You can watch JAY-Z's poignant documentary at TIDAL.com.