Megan the Stallion Freestyle, Part 1

We were recently checking out a freestyle by Megan Thee Stallion. I asked two of the fellows the following: If you were covering that piece by Meg with a group of first-year black students, what issues would you be sure to address with the group right before the viewing? Why?

With an influx of capable female rappers tackling subjects relevant to their identities such as financial and sexual autonomy and the relationships they share with both men and other women, these artists have seen their share of overt resistance from casual listeners, Rap journalists, and, in some cases, other rappers. Because of this, I think it would be useful to discuss misogynoir and gatekeeping in the genre. 

Although consumers are now being introduced to a larger number of female rappers than there has ever been, the genre remains male-dominated—in all of the aforementioned populations (listener/journalist/rapper). Thus, what is considered “good” or “bad” rap is chiefly decided by men, and female rappers such as Meg rarely fit into the parameters surrounding “good” rap. --Dawson Johnson

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Right before the viewing, I wouldn’t want to prime them with information, knowing as a college student the way that a professor’s approaches alter the conversation in the classroom. In the weeks leading up to this viewing, if it were a cultural commentary seminar, I would have assigned readings of Black women in the media and pop culture, Black representations, and probably on colorism as well. 

Just before the class viewing, I would offer handouts or a presentation slide featuring a biography on Megan Pete and her rap career, specifically focusing on her artistic references. Additionally, I might offer a quick explanation of things that might be useful to note, including but not limited to: what is used to set the scene; lighting; angles that are employed and how that constructs the subject; who or what is the subject of the video; her words and the accompanying images; and ultimately, and most importantly, any reactions they might have. I would emphasize that any reaction they might’ve had serves only as information in deconstructing what the video was intended to elicit. --Ivana Onubogu

Related: 

• AALCI 2020