ta Rap Coloring Book with a gun on the cover.The president of Urban Outfitters, Richard Hayne, became controversial in early 2004 when the company t-shirts bearing the slogan "Voting is for Old People." At one time, the store sold a magnet set depicting a crucified Jesus Christ that one could dress up and put various phrases on. This item was later pulled after a public backlash. However, the chain has not backed down from selling products of all stripes that are generally aimed at mocking various social stereotypes and prejudices.
Anyhow, I am curious as to the thoughts and comments from other villagers on this Gangsta Rap coloring book. Is this acceptable to you?
7 comments:
A most unusual blog here. Looks very good.
I don't think this will make it to Oprah's book club. When I clicked on the link, it also featured for sale a ceramic gun shaped ashtray. Who'da thought? Nah, I think I'll pass on ordering it. ... Hey, I like your blog, interesting !
Sad they had to include a statement that the coloring book is not intended for little kids. But this big kid will have to pass as well.
I don't see any need for the gun. There is one coloring page of a gangsta holding a dove, that I like. I like old school (80s and 90s) "Gangsta" rap Cyprus Hill, Snoop Dogg being a favorites, but I listen well out of the hearing range of my kids and consider it my escape. I get caught up with the flow and the beat and seem to forget the actual lyrics. But guns and a coloring book, no way. If it is geared toward adults like Keli says I know a lot of hip hoppers (I know, corny title, I am the queen of corn) create their own art and are far from people who stay in the lines.
Keep on keeping on.
As a lanky white kid growing up in an Oklahoma farm house, those images were all I had to escape my surroundings. The cover art of Ice-T, the lyrics of Biggie Smalls, and the even the nasty rap of Too $hort! Yes it was vulgar, but it tought me something else, how to think outside of the box. Urban Outfitters is doing what any other mainstream corporate entity is trying to do. Tap into the gold mine of the 16-25 year old kid. And if you don't know, now you know! =)
Very interesting. I can't immagine what goes through some peoples minds sometimes. Actually I can, its $$$. How unfortunate.
Jean-Luc - Thank you for the kind words. I hope you find reasons to visit often. U would appreciate this more than most ... my son's name is Khalis. Spelled differently than you would suggest ... do you have any posts on your blog about the ST version of Khalis?
Nancy - I agree that Oprah wouldn't be much interested. Hmm... does Oprah have a blog?
Keli - I'm passing as well. I worried when I made the post originally if I would be bring more attention to the nonsense than it deserved.
Danielle - Cyprus Hill. Dayum ... u r ol' school!
Jason - Too Short. Dayum, country villager ... u r ol' school 2! Although, I give Too Short props. As I recall he won a grammy for one of his songs.
Kyle - Yes, too often it is about the Benjamins.
My thanks to each of you for taking the time to share your comments.
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