Black Eyed Peas Use “Where Is the Love?” To Address Minnesota At Ty Dolla $ign’s EZMNY Jam Pre-GRAMMYs Event

Last night time on January 28, Ty Dolla $ign’s EZMNY JammJam pre-GRAMMYs get together introduced out main names and shock performances. One standout second tapped straight into what many in music and tradition are feeling proper now. Around 30 artists hit the stage to make particular visitor appearances, from JoJo and Ne-Yo to T.I. and Wale. The power was electrical, however one efficiency stood out not only for nostalgia or star energy, however for objective.

When the Black Eyed Peas carried out their 2003 hit “Where Is the Love?, the vibe shifted. Written as a name to unity and reflection practically 20 years in the past, the tune has lengthy served as a reminder that music nonetheless has house to ask huge questions. As they closed the efficiency, will.i.am paused to talk on to the gang in regards to the unrest and ache unfolding in Minnesota and throughout the nation.

“I need to present some love on whats going on in Minnesota right now,” will.i.am. stated. “With all of the issues thats taking place on this planet proper now, our neighborhood in music, we obtained a robust neighborhood. We obtained a robust device to attach hearts and unite people to get individuals on the identical wavelength.

“We want to make use of our device loads higher in these instances,” he continued. “In the subsequent 5-10 years it is not simply gonna be people making music. AI is correct across the nook, however AI is not gonna make heartfelt, soul-dripping, spirit-rinsing-out, human-to-human s**t.”

The message wasn’t nearly leisure. will.i.am talked about the way in which music can foster actual connection, particularly at a second when social tensions really feel stretched. He pointed to the facility of artists to convey individuals’s consideration again to what issues: empathy, shared expertise, and reality. He additionally appeared forward, noting that know-how like AI is coming, however it would by no means exchange the uncooked humanity that drives heartfelt, soul-filled music. Music that comes from one actual particular person to a different.

That message was particularly resonant given ongoing nationwide conversations about justice, neighborhood security, and accountability. In Minnesota particularly, protests and discussions about regulation enforcement actions have continued within the wake of current high-profile incidents that sparked outrage and mobilized activists.

In an evening stuffed with movie star performances and star turns, the Black Eyed Peas’ second reminded everybody watching that the GRAMMY season isn’t just about awards, it’s about connection. A reminder that music and message nonetheless transfer individuals.

“Thank you Ty$ for having us come out,” will.i.am concluded. “Let’s join hearts and minds y’all.”