My friend Erich believes that the one of greatest complements you can receive in terms of being together culturally is from African Americans, or like he sums it up "Black Cred". Being half African African or "Black", made me look into my past to wonder if I've ever experienced this "Black Cred", and what I found was that it has happened on occasion, but only from white or Asian people that I know. This past Halloween I was in Davis, California and was approached by this Asian guitar player who wanted to know if his music sounded good. I was in a group of 3 white guys watching his band rehearse when he came up and asked, and I complemented his improvisation on his guitar. Now I wasn't really paying attention to the music aspect of his performance as much as his dramatic actions he made while playing, but I wanted to appease his question. In response he gave me a handshake that included the Obama fist bump, so I knew he was satisfied. He wasn't willing to ask anyone else, and I thought to myself I dealt "Black Cred". Prior to this I've been asked advice by students at Foothill College about whether or not Drake was suitable for their ipod. I've also been questioned on whether or not Lebron's jersey would be cool to where on campus. If I haven't stated this already, these are my white friends on campus who ask. This concept has given me a feeling of importance, that since birth i've been inherited with this ability to make decisions.It's almost a cultural problem in America, because race shouldn't be a barrier for certain interests. Even though you may not think this is a suitable topic, Erich is right about "Black Cred", because in America black approval on culture is a step towards cool, and a lot of individuals who have interest in black music or black athletes want to feel apart of this scene created by commercialism. I also believe that the majority of population is not the only group needing " Black Cred". I feel black people want "Black cred" as well, just to feel content within their own race. Now you can claim that theirs other groups who people want to feel apart of, but nothing is comparable to the effect African Americans have on American culture. It's commercialized existence is the reason why you buy those Air Jordan's or listen to Young Money. For all those individuals who secretly play " Pass the Dutch" turned low in their cars, just remember that it's nothing to be embarrassed about. Remember that we appreciate you, and are willing to recommend other artists.
