Introducing the female Kanye West

"I've never written a political song. Songs can't save the world." - Bob Dylan

This is another story about a pampered entertainment figure with too big a bullhorn. As you may have heard, M.I.A. is building publicity for her new album and record label by feuding with the New York Times. If you want to buy into the hype drive, you can listen to her mediocre diss song, "IM A SINGER" on her record label's website. I listened because M.I.A. makes innovative music. She's repping Sleigh Bells, which proves her ears still work. Her songs are worth listening to.

But I don't think that she is.

I want outspoken musicians, but with a better sense of what's worth talking about or fighting for. Of course, M.I.A. is truly concerned for the plight of Sri Lanka. I am too. There is unquestionably too much poverty in our world. Her father was a revolutionary during her childhood, but her step-father is the CEO of Warner Music Group. Which lifestyle does she appear to be living? Don't we have enough misguided Jolies and Bonos feigning around trying to save the world for the tabloid press?

Raising awareness about violence in third world countries is helpful. Angrily attacking an American journalist's right to free speech makes M.I.A. look like a cowardly hypocrite. Attacking Google makes me question her legitimacy as a thinker.

I love conspiracy theories, but M.I.A's claim to Nylon that the CIA runs Facebook and Google doesn't resonate. Everyone knows the CIA doesn't have enough money or competence for that.

MIA: If you really want to help, use your pocketbook power in a meaningful way. Create a foundation so you can donate your profits to the cause. Or go on hiatus like Zach de la Rocha did and become a full time political activist. You already have a mansion in L.A. -- you don't need any more money.


"A hero is someone that understands the responsibility that comes with freedom." -Bob Dylan