“Talkin’ ‘Bout a Revolution”
In this song, Tracy Chapman talks about the problems experienced by the poor. Those in power have oppressed the poor. Her region is talking about a revolution, but this is just a whisper. She says that many poor people are sitting around with no employment. Tracy gives hope to the poor that they are going to rise and get what is theirs. She warns the oppressors to leave before the tables start to turn to talk about a revolution.
Chapman’s “Talkin’ ‘Bout a Revolution” live performance at the Mandela concert was significant to the event. South Africa had not yet gained independence during this tribute, for they were still under the British colony. Mandela, who led them against revolutionary movements, had been detained in jail, leaving his people hopeless.
The event had a large attendance for the tribute of Nelson Mandela, who was still in prison, and that was the best place to express their need for a revolution. Tracy stands firm for her people with good music. Chapman addresses political conflicts and social issues such as poverty, among others. She has good vocals and is audible as she presents her patriotic song. Chapman is well composed and performs the music perfectly. She gets emotional while performing the song, fitting with the rhythm and theme of the song. Chapman shows her patriotism and love for her people in this song.
“Across the lines”
Across the lines is a song that talks about racism and violence towards black lives. Tracy Chapman says that in the streets of America, a black girl is murdered for no reason. People fail to recognize her, and she becomes the problem. Riots result and black boys are killed, and a white boy is blinded. She says there is nowhere to go but to the trucks and under the bridge that separates whites from blacks. Chapman’s song is fighting racism against black people.
This song’s performance at the Mandela concert was of paramount significance. The music fights racism against black lives. South Africa is still under colonialism during this event and was a victim of discrimination from the whites in their land. She is fighting for the civil rights of the black by opposing racism. Chapman empowers her fellow South African citizens to stand up against the racism of the Blacks.
Tracy Chapman makes an outstanding performance with an inspiring song that carries a lot of lessons. She is upset about the brutality against her fellow blacks. Chapman plays the guitar so well and is seen to be taken by the flow of her song. She is evident as she speaks out against racism with no fear. Tracy Chapman’s song performance stresses the respect of all races, especially the blacks.
