by Sky Obercam
Clutch Magazine
Hip-hop legend KRS-One has found himself embroiled in more controversy behind his “underground viewpoint” and outspoken nature. This latest incident involves the video for the track “Real Terrorism.” The rather graphic video for the politically charged song (featuring new artist Greenie) has become one of the few music videos to be banned from YouTube. Evidently, its explicit wartime imagery was declared “too shocking” for viewers.
WATCH THE CONTROVERSIAL VIDEO HERE:
Krs-One and Greenie “Real Terrorism” Shocking Video from Krs-Greenie Album on Vimeo.
There’s no coincidence that this ban occurred during a very vulnerable time for many Americans. The 10-year anniversary of the attacks on September 11th mark a period of mourning and reflection for many in the US where criticism of American policies may even be considered sign of disrespect. Regardless, rapper Greenie explains:
“The song tells the truth about the United States, its massacres, and the terrorist acts our government has committed around the world. The photos used in the video are just actual historic records and are important educational materials for all to see. I am shocked that YouTube allows silliness, sex, and pop rap — but not this important material.”
This isn’t the first time the “Teacha’s” uninhibited speech have hit a nerve. KRS triggered a wave of controversy when we was quoted as saying “we cheered when 9/11 happened” during a panel discussion hosted by The New Yorker in 2004. Clarifying his statement via AllHipHop.com, KRS said:
Click here to view a Grio slideshow of the top 10 most controversial black music videos of all time
“I was asked about why Hip Hop has not engaged the current situation more (meaning 9/11), my response was “because it does not affect us, or at least we don’t perceive that it affects us, 9/11 happened to them… I am speaking for the culture now; I am not speaking my personal opinion.” I continued to say; “9/11 affected them down the block; the rich, the powerful those that are oppressing us as a culture. Sony, RCA or BMG, Universal, the radio stations, Clear Channel, Viacom with BET and MTV, those are our oppressors, those are the people that we’re trying to overcome in Hip Hop everyday, this is a daily thing.”
“We cheered when 9/11 happened in New York and say that proudly here. Because when we were down at the Trade Center we were getting hit over the head by cops, told that we can’t come in this building, hustled down to the train station because of the way we dressed and talked, and so on, we were racially profiled. So, when the planes hit the building we were like, “mmmm, justice.” And just as I began to say, “Now of course a lot of our friends and family were lost there as well” I was interrupted…
“Real Terrorism”, the video YouTube deemed unfit for their audience, can still be viewed by way of Vimeo.
