Since her rise to fame as one of the sickest hip hop ladies in the game Nicki Minaj has become an outspoken advocate for social equality. With this in mine it should come as no surprise that the “Feelin Myself” rapper joined A&E to participate in their benefit show Shining a Light: A Concert for Progress on Race in America when it was filmed this Wednesday (November 18).
The benefit is tasked with promoting equality and raising funds for the United Way Worldwide, and many celebrities have involved themselves in the program. During the show Nicki Minaj created a special moment while reading the late Maya Angelou’s 1978 poem “Still I Rise” with the utmost of conviction.
“You may write me down in history with your bitter twisted lies / you may trod me in the very dirt / but still like dirt I’ll rise” Nicki Minaj intoned with passion. As the historic poem continues the rapper grinned with confidence and pride, ending by repeating “I rise” to the applause of the audience.
Listen to Nicki Minaj’s spoken word tribute to Maya Angelou below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MafMxdiXe6I
The power in this moment is truly incredible, and it becomes all the more influential in Minaj’s hands. There are few female rappers in the game, but Nicki Minaj has shown her ability to rise and fight for what she believes in regardless. “You may kill me like your hatefulness / but still like air I rise” the musician spoke with fervid belief, something that she has proven multiple times over her career.
A&E’s Shining a Light: A Concert for Progress on Race in America is set to air on November 20 at 8 p.m. The show will feature Nicki Minaj’s tribute amongst other moments and featured appearances from John Legend, Sia, Alicia Keys, Ed Sheeran, Zac Brown Band, and Miquel.
What are you most looking forward to seeing in A&E’s special? Let us know!
Author
