Tyler, the Creator. Billie Eilish. Frank Ocean. Jessie Reyez. Childish Gambino. Kendrick Lamar.
Above is a list of some of the most illustrious, transformational artists of the 21st century. These artists, and others like them, exist within an entirely separate category of fame than other performers, song-writers, and industry leaders. This category is flush with fans who admire their creativity and authenticity not only within music creation, but within their self-expression and essential “weirdness”. What does this desirable difference tell us in a society of complacency? It tells us that being yourself is only alluring in the select few, and exemplifies how the norms and regulations of society bring a highly valued comfort in daily practices. We seek out these artists for their provocative lyrics, unconventional behaviours, and distinct attire. We find entertainment in the “freaks and geeks” of our time, and we revel in songs which disrupt the equilibrium such as Childish Gambino’s “This is America” and self-producing Frank Ocean.
These artists speak to a part of us which often goes unacknowledged within our day to day lives. Our admiration for their inherent stray from the norms of society seek to ignite our own potential creativity and expression. These artists exist not only as a source of inspiration for us, but as a symbol of a push-back against the “sleeper society”. A sleeper society does not acknowledge difference as powerful and the beauty of individuality is lost within the comfort of the ordinary. Pushing the boundaries of likability and resisting the infallible pressures of society allows for a deeper understanding into a uniquely human concept of emotional intelligence. Tapping into emotional intelligence reveals our self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills that allow us to connect. Connection, between ourselves and these artists and between one another, is one of the most underestimated concepts of our time. The unique ability to connect within music, with art, with sport, and with other human beings is what I believe to be one of the most valuable elements within society.
In light of this, we must use Tyler, the Creator’s and Kendrick Lamar’s as fuel for fire. Allow their voices and actions, and others similar to them, to inspire a rebellion against indifference. Striving to pursue our own creativity and igniting our own passions in the process will allow for an abundance of intimate human connections and generate new recognition of differences beyond the exterior. We must seize the opportunity to dive into our own ability to strive for greatness and self-expression, and share those qualities with others who currently hide in the shadows. We must seek for these artists to speak with us, instead of solely speaking for us, and stand alongside them within the movement for individual self-creation. The formidable quality within each of us is the ability to create – a gift that must not be wasted simply because of the fear of rejection. For those who create for themselves can never truly be rejected.