Black Privilege – Charlamagne Tha God

You either love or hate Charlamagne Tha God. I might be one of the few people that actually finds his opinion refreshingly honest. For me, the best way to tell a celebrity’s character is to watch their interview with The Breakfast Club. Simply because Charlamagne is unafraid to ask the tough questions. Whether right or wrong, he’s always honest and that is something that is missing in today’s media personalities. It took me a while to finally read Black Privilege. Largely because of how vague the title is. The last book I read with that vague of a title was Girl Boss, and I hated everything about it. Knowing Charla’s personality, I thought the book would be full of arrogance. The kind of self-help nonsense that ultimately tells you that you suck at life for not following someone else’s path. I was shocked by what I actually read.    

Charlamagne grew in Moncks Corner South Carolina. By all accounts this is a largely impoverished area. The son of a teacher, his early days were filled education. He mentioned that he was a nerd with White friends and was constantly bullied for it. Tired of the incessant bullying from his cousins, Charlamagne quickly spiraled out of control. Turning to dealing drugs and crime. He made several mistakes throughout his formative years before he finally got into the radio industry. Even during this journey, he endured many setbacks. The amazing part of his story is his determination. He knew he was a stubborn person and used that to fuel his drive. I enjoyed Black Privilege. It shows how you can’t become a slave to your circumstances. Even if it seems like everything and everyone is against you, stay true to your vision.  

I recommend Black Privilege to young, Black men especially. It can be difficult to maneuver through life when you’re seen as a threat for simply existing. It is equally complicated to excel and prioritize education when your peers only aspire to be athletes, rappers, or producers. The point that Charlamagne stresses at every turn is that you have to follow your own path. Find something that speaks to you and make it happen. Embrace being the nerd, the intellectual, the scientist. He constantly reminds the reader to be honest in what you believe. Even if it means getting beat up, the only thing we really have in this world is our integrity.  Sometimes the best opportunities come from difficult situations. Finally, don’t allow others to make you feel that being Black is a disadvantage when it’s easily the best asset to have.

 

Next Book: Girl Boss – Sophia Amoruso