It's bigger than Don Imus

Originally posted June 18, 2007

Many have approached WSOUF asking we share our opinion on the actions and controversy surrounding Don Imus' comments. As a media outlet that promotes freedom of speech, initially we were reluctant to feed the fire surrounding the controversy and adamantly declined. As the issue becomes dormant, we've become more comfortable with sharing our thoughts on Imus, censorship, Hip Hop music, and the [true] matter at hand---responsiblity.
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It is a FACT the word WHORE, from which HO is derived, was around long before rap/hip hop music came about.

For anyone to cite a culture, genre of music, or entertainer as the reason for their use of the word 'ho/whore' [or any deragtory term] is an exhibition of a lack of responsibility.

As most mothers will or have pointed out, just because someone else [your friends] is participating in destructive behavior [jumping off a bridge] doesnt mean you should [follow].

As we have seen before (i.e. Susan Smith) pointing the finger at minorities and our culture (i.e. Rap music), is a convenient cop-out when INDIVIDUALS wish to avoid personal responsibility.
Let us not let 'them', folks of all status and colors, make Rap music the scapegoat here.

Both entertainers and 'average joes' must be held accountable for their words and not fail to recognize responsibility, especially in the presence of children. And if we must censor our thoughts and feelings, it must be a wholistic effort. Figures like Al Sharpton, Russell Simmons, Oprah Winfrey and Armstrong Williams must also protest the drug and sexual innuendos present within FILM and POP[ular] MUSIC (including rock & alternative).

Recording industry executives who invest in the entertainers who are being scrutinized must take an active role in promoting positive behavior. Organizations like the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences from which Three-6 Mafia received an award for their song Its Hard Out Here For A Pimp, and Denzel Washington for his role as a dirty, womanizing, police offer in Training Day, must also be active in promoting positive images within the arts. Failing to do so will otherwise send mixed messages to our communities, its members and our neighbors.

Let us not attack rap, but instead accept it for what it is--an artistic expression often based on experiences from within an impoverished environment. As well, let us not hide behind our individual freedoms, including freedom of speech, using them as havens from accountability and compassion.

Peace,
Bosslady
Co-Founder/CEO

*These comments are solely those of S.D. Galloway and do not reflect the thoughts or opinions of WSOUF, its affiliates or sponsors.

A letter from Tipwell

Originally posted May 24, 2007
The following is an excerpt from a 'A Letter from Tipwell', originally posted in the Mouth of the SOUF eNewsletter.

To the artists: ...we've faithfully stood by yall, believing in your music. WSOUF is now, more than ever, committed to starting your buzz. Keep riding with us. We won't steer you wrong. We've continuously provided artists and managers what we, and the goon squad (the WSOUF think tank), think of their music. If we think its good we let you know. If we don't, you get a picture of me laughing at you and your lack of creativity, holding up a sign that says: "What the f**k was that?"

To our listeners: ...we know you've enjoyed what you've been hearing. From Semyhr's Sweat Shop Show to the Den Of Iniquity with me. From AV's Southern Hospitality to Satuhde Knight Live with Tig Knight.
A wise man once told me that a great entertainer always knows his audience, which got me to thinking, "Who are we creating art for?" Of course, ourselves, but beyond that-we want to know who our audience is. The Grateful Dead calls their audience 'Deadheads.' Michael Richards calls his audience 'Ni**ers!.' Who are the fans of WSOUF? And what do we call them?
...we're dedicated to keep rolling, bringing you the new new hotness. Banging tracks from the best in the South, whether mainstream or underground. We are out to prove that the South aint all gold teeth, chains and spinning rims. We play all genre's of Hip-Hop from the south (as long as its good, don't get it twisted).

To the beloved staff and DJs: Thanks for making this movement the best thing to happen to Southern Hip-Hop since Getto Boys "Mind Playin Tricks On Me". We are here to take this thing to the top and keep us on top, pullin' kickdoes on everybody else out there misrepresenting.

To our supporters: We definitely appreciate everything you do. Fan mail, random acts of crunkness, including us within your network, we are thankful for each and every somebody that has helped WSOUF in front of and behind the scenes.

To the haters: We see yall, keep hating while we get our grind on. We're established now, f**k with it.!

-Tipwell
Co-Founder/COO
WSOUF.com Internet Radio