Lupe Fiasco’s Modern Voice

History has constantly brought upon leaders and individuals who stands up against the corrupt society he and many others face. Those “leaders” express their profound thoughts for both him and the many others that are too afraid to speak out. One of the most notorious writers in American history and is known for his transcendental ideals. However, today’s society lacks individuals who parallels with Whitman. Lupe Fiasco represents the Modern American voice speaking out against the degrading world society and does so by influencing the public through their appeal of music. He rejects and contrasts from the negative influences of the world and uses his music to contradict those who degrade our society. Born in the west side of Chicago Illinois, Fiasco grew up opposing what most other kids in his time regarded as their inspiration. Unlike the others he grew up around, Fiasco took interest in literature spending most of his time reading books and comics. Inspired by artist such as Spice 1 and Ice Cube, he slowly began to develop the personality that compares to Whitman and started to write lyrics that condemns our society’s negative influences. Fiasco’s music career began when he was featured in Kanye West’s “Touch the Sky”. His performance caused widespread popularity and soon began his first album “Food & Liquor” which was produced by his inspiration and mentor, Jay-z. The album’s release marked the start of his rise to fame and was followed by “The Cool” and “Superstar”. His songs are primarily directed toward the negativity of society and hope to influence his audience into creating a better society. His lyrics and writing style displays his individualistic ideals, often portraying the importance of one’s independence. Both Whitman and Fiasco emphasize the ideas of individualism both choosing to ignore the degrading influences of society and display this in their writings. By being uncompelled to base your personality on what others tell you to be. Fiasco