This Is America

Definition

'This Is America' is a song and music video by the artist Childish Gambino, released in 2018, that critiques systemic racism, gun violence, and the complex identity of African Americans in contemporary society. The work is significant for its bold visuals and powerful messaging that confronts the viewer with uncomfortable truths about American culture and the African American experience. Through a blend of musical genres, striking imagery, and symbolism, it serves as a commentary on the duality of American identity, where joy and violence coexist in a society marked by deep-seated racial issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'This Is America' features shocking imagery that juxtaposes scenes of celebration with violent acts, highlighting the contradictions within American culture.
2. The song critiques the normalization of gun violence in America, using powerful symbolism to convey its message about the impact on African Americans.
3. Childish Gambino employs various musical styles in 'This Is America,' blending elements of hip-hop, gospel, and trap to enhance the emotional depth of the piece.
4. The music video gained widespread acclaim for its choreography, which contrasts carefree dancing with scenes of chaos and brutality, reflecting the duality of life for many African Americans.
5. The phrase 'This Is America' itself has become a rallying cry for discussions around race relations, identity, and social justice movements across the country.

Review Questions

• How does 'This Is America' illustrate the relationship between joy and violence in American culture?
  • 'This Is America' portrays the coexistence of joy and violence by showcasing scenes where celebratory dancing abruptly shifts to moments of shocking brutality. This stark contrast emphasizes how African Americans navigate happiness amidst a backdrop of systemic oppression and violence. The imagery in the video serves to provoke thought about how these elements are intertwined in American life, reflecting both cultural resilience and tragic realities.
• Discuss the significance of the visual elements in 'This Is America' and how they contribute to its social commentary.
  • 'This Is America' utilizes striking visual elements to convey its social commentary effectively. For instance, the use of vibrant colors during joyful moments juxtaposed with dark imagery during violent scenes creates a jarring contrast that captures viewers' attention. This technique draws focus to the complexities of African American identity while critiquing societal norms surrounding race and violence. The visual storytelling enhances the message, making it both memorable and impactful.
• Evaluate how 'This Is America' contributes to discussions about identity among contemporary diasporic artists and its implications for broader societal change.
  • 'This Is America' serves as a significant contribution to discussions about identity among contemporary diasporic artists by addressing themes of systemic racism and cultural duality. The song's popularity has sparked widespread discourse on race relations in America, highlighting how art can catalyze social change. Through its powerful message, 'This Is America' not only reflects the struggles faced by African Americans but also encourages collective action toward addressing these issues within society.

Related terms

Systemic Racism: A form of racism that is embedded in the laws and regulations of a society or an organization, resulting in discrimination and disadvantages for certain racial groups.

Cultural Identity: The identity or feeling of belonging to a group based on shared culture, language, or heritage, particularly important for diasporic communities.

Visual Culture: The aspect of culture expressed through visual images and representations, which play a key role in shaping perceptions and social commentary.