Grammy-award winning songwriter and recording artist Cocoa Sarai is heeding the instructions of the late Nina Simone to “reflect the times” as the EarnYoSleep Records’ singer’s latest song, “Strange Fame” is doing just that.
Not to get it confused, this is not Sarai’s first time addressing social issues in her music. The Brooklyn native has made it a point to tackle topics such as colorism by highlighting the beauty seen throughout the African Diaspora in her work. However, this go ‘round she’s turning her pen towards police brutality.
“Strange Fame” inspired by the murder of George Floyd outlines the unfortunate reality those killed at the hands of hate are involuntarily memorialized as martyrs for the fight for a cause bigger than them. Whenever you’re an ally, advocate, or have been a victim of this injustice it is important to let their death be in vain and that their legacy lives on beyond a headline but rather measurable reform.
In an interview with LADYGUNN, Sarai spoke on the inspiration behind the track stating, “[Strange Fame] is not another angry protest song. There is space for that for sure, but this one isn’t just that. It’s a call to action. For me, it’s not just political; it’s personal,” adding, “the music video represents my firm belief that my ancestors walk with me. I believe that what we do right now helps all of the children later — not just the ones of color. It’s everyone’s job to undo what is being done.”
Watch the full visual co-directed by Cocoa Sarai and Kai Martinez below.
If you are interested in getting involved in the fight for Black equity as discussed by Cocoa Sarai, visit strangeframe.com.
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