Is Billie Eilish Culturally Appropriating? | @Jouelzy

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Book mentioned: White Negroes by Lauren Michele Jackson
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[@mimigraham22]

you said she dresses like a "early 2000s NBA draft pick" the accuracy lmaooo

[@blackgirlburntout]

I screamed because i swear I've seen that outfit on a draft pick. 🤣🤣😂😂

[@clairemariefergley]

😂😂😂

[@stannature1984]

NOT EARLY 2000S NBA DRAFT PICK

[@peridot0408]

I spit out my sweet tea when she said that!

[@itsniquenique45]

😂😂😂😂 its true tho

[@TheThriftQueen]

Lol looks like every Big Timers/Cash money video I used to watch when I got home from school back in the day but I guess 🥴

[@rUtHlOvE1415]

😂😂😂

[@nhguar]

😂😂😂 But 100% accurate!

[@ptvhoe4312]

Billie said she dresses the way she does because of her low self esteem & negative body image. Although there are def some similarities, many girls dress that way for the same reason or they don’t want to be sexualized. But I feel like some of y’all are reaching w this, but I fully support this video and her opinions.

[@blue______]

Yes, she does it for that, but it's no coincidence that many of the black rappers that she likes, dresses, or dressed exactly the same. Tyler The Creator is a good example of that. I mean, beyond her negativity in her body, she also took advantage of the fact that the style she likes dresses like this. Wich is not a bad thing

[@ptvhoe4312]

WhatReallyMatters bhad bhabie is crazy💀 but then again it can be influenced but I wouldn’t say appropriated

[@taetm8868]

@@whatreallymatters571 that started way after billie stopped being friends with bhad bhabie, not everything is about race sis.

[@themaninthebox4906]

Yes but one thing is to use oversized normal clothing and other totally different is dressing like someone from another culture, like there are alot of universal clothing that can be used oversized

[@ravencce]

i think theres a difference between cultural appropriation and wearing clothes that black people wore first

[@rubix1651]

“Is Billie Eilish culturally appropriating?” the short answer is NOPE.

[@rubix1651]

WhatReallyMatters woahhhh I was supposed to write appropriating. I don’t think she’s appropriating, I think she’s appreciating. My bad can’t believe I typed the wrong thing 😂 let me edit that real quick I’m such a dumbass 😩

[@ziennanoordpool6639]

Exatly.

[@zaralanda4115]

@Shanon B NO

[@mylovelykids2704]

Well I as a black girl does...but great analysis

[@angelicitema9761]

@@mylovelykids2704 Um, sorry if this sounds rude, but I'm kinda confused as to how a clothing aesthetic is cultural appropriation. I understand the hairstyles of course like how non-black people can't wear box braids and such, but I'm really confused about clothes. Like, if I wear similar styles to what Billie does, is it cultural appropriation? (I don't but idk really anything about this, genuine question)

[@jhnell9415]

"Billy truly is a child of the internet, where black culture is the default" - Jouelzy

[@teniellemounts-williams64]

@A M you know what black culture is when you see it. Stop acting like all the world's culture is meshed into one entity. Because you and I both know it's not

[@hellokitty2552]

@A M Wrong comment section. Please drop off your ignorance somewhere else, thanks.

[@tmd-w1552]

@A M Human culture?🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️ its crazy only a couple decades ago we weren't even considered human but all of sudden now black culture is human culture??😂😂 This blatant deflection of oppressed people experiences is a true reminder as to why Blacks and whites will NEVER truly get along.

[@viv9239]

TMD-W that kind of attitude also keeps people of different races from getting along. Of course we can get along. Don’t be so isolationist and pessimistic.

[@veoh112]

How is a musician Ignorant to music. Billie knows who she’s getting her inspiration from just like Britney Spears from Janet Jackson. Only difference is Britney will say it

[@TeeNoir]

You broke this down so well! Bc of “youth culture” sometimes it’s hard to differentiate whether someone is just following the only popular culture they’ve ever known or blatantly appropriating. This was so informative.

[@ltarleton7527]

I agree. It definitely gave me a different perspective.

[@cinnamonstar808]

SHE DID but also open the door to make K-POP look at black people side ways? and Lil Nas X - Old Town Road was charge with cultural appropriation and COUNTRY MUSIC is a black genre!! .. like ROCK & ROLL and gospel music. the push back is valid and the end of the day she is going to go about her life BECAUSE as an American. why? 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝒾𝓉𝓈 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒸𝓊𝓁𝓉𝓊𝓇𝒶𝓁 𝓇𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝒻𝓇𝑜𝓂 𝒷𝓁𝒶𝒸𝓀𝓈. I know this because when these artist come to the Caribbean music scene = its not a happy scene. 👆Bhad Bhadie is arrogant about the appropriation. = ANOTHER SETUP 👆 the argument isnt "youth culture" is the culture of "allowing cultural appropriation AS A BIRTH RIGHT." Elvis Presley is King of Rock +Roll. California invented 🏄surfing and 'becky' founded yoga. we dont dox items from Europe/dominant society we say "𝑒𝓃𝑔𝓁𝒾𝓈𝒽 𝓂𝓊𝒻𝒻𝒾𝓃𝓈 and 𝓈𝓌𝑒𝒹𝒾𝓈𝒽 𝓂𝑒𝒶𝓉𝒷𝒶𝓁𝓁, 𝒷𝓇𝓊𝓃𝓈𝓌𝒾𝒸𝓀 𝓈𝓉𝑒𝓌 etc. vs 𝓅𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝓅𝒾𝑒, 𝒻𝓇𝒾𝑒𝒹 𝒸𝒽𝒾𝒸𝓀𝑒𝓃, 𝑔𝓊𝓂𝒷𝑜. it not native amercan turkey or native american corn. its 🍿Orville Redenbacher’s as default

[@kokolatte825]

@@cinnamonstar808 mmm. Interesting point.

[@tayeant1]

Culture = tribalism = division = emotional opinions = hate.

[@bakinbacon8659]

oh money elaborate?

[@michellejackson4693]

She’s not cultural appropriating she’s just insecure and doesn’t want people to sexualize her.

[@bumgarner4987]

K Dilmon she did that to make a point if you listen to what she says in the video or read the subtitles (because everyone’s yelling) she’s talking about how people base what other people’s value is off of how they dress... she’s trying to make a statement about how if she has no clothes on or baggy clothes she is still herself, and regardless of anyone wears that doesn’t define them as a person, you’re still the same person naked as you are when your clothed... that’s the statement she was making

[@theiconicrickgrimes]

@rose petals Kim K is definitely culture appropriating. She literally wore braids

[@questionable8305]

@@theiconicrickgrimes so wearing braids is...culture appropriating?

[@JohnLennonsocks]

@@questionable8305 if you're not black, yes, it is

[@questionable8305]

@@JohnLennonsocks lmao I wear Dutch fishtails and wear my hair in braids, even in public I see people with braids..I don’t see people making a big deal

[@alfie6441]

I’ll never forget the fact that rich white kids ruined champion for everybody

[@00.miu_]

Now champion is expensive af 😭

[@theblckflwr]

Billie is just a reflection of the current times where hip hop culture, aesthetic, and fashion have become the new norm. Simple as that.

[@brifromdowntown]

BLCKFLWR actually.. she wears these baggy clothes because she doesn’t like being sexualized and extremely uncomfortable

[@luigiiodice3517]

@@brifromdowntown she just likes to wear them, I think

[@mylzcrooks5487]

Same shit happened with rhythm and blues but white folks like to call it rock and roll

[@pedrorian528]

PERIODT

[@robloxroblox5936]

IMGODJIHYOSBITCH Periodt it’s jewelry?

[@DaughterofSarahisreal]

Omg loving the hair

[@nhguar]

Saaame! I want one!

[@kayyoung9242]

I need this wig ❤❤😁😁😁

[@cocoputhyxo]

Kay Young that’s a wig ?

[@beeninthisfandomlongerthan9500]

O K i got hair like that, full and long and Im fully black. She obviously uses stretching methods to achieve the length. Non-mixed black people can have long full hair, ignorant of you to think otherwise. And if it is a wig or if she is mixed, who cares.

[@Humptygotadumpy]

been in this fandom longer than taehyung's forehead I’m mixed and it’s almost impossible for me to have this hair

[@louisalaurence7322]

People are taking this thing too far cant someone dress in peace?

[@tllymchll7474]

Louisa Laurence exactly! If they really knew Billie’s background they would know why she wears baggy clothes

[@TheOMGRamen]

I kinda agree!! The girl is not taking ownership of anything and is just wearing something she feels comfortable in. If it is always like this where you cannot wear this because of this culture or that because of this culture than no one would be able to wear anything. Actually why don't we all go naked instead? Save the experimentation process. EDIT:I do understand that sometimes things are blatantly obvious but in Billies case it is absolutely absurd.

[@Andrea-pr7wo]

@@TheOMGRamen couldn't have said it better

[@seanovak]

@Sehun Min sis... it does.

[@navianais9169]

Thank you like she’s just wearing what she wants to wear

[@lilyann168]

Billie wears baggy clothes because she dosen't want to put her body on display. I admire that.

[@h3llboyyy407]

@@kdog3334 she actually has body dismorphia though.

[@non_conformist4229]

@@h3llboyyy407 well recently she has said is truly happy now in all aspects of life but before around 16 - 17 uh she probably did

[@h3llboyyy407]

@@non_conformist4229 i think she's coming out of the mindset but come on 16 was like not that long ago for her lol just let her do her insecurities or not it's not a shot at her.

[@non_conformist4229]

@@h3llboyyy407 she is 19 now just so you know that was 2/3 years ago

[@h3llboyyy407]

@@non_conformist4229 yup not even able to drink in the U.S also brain hasn't fully developed until 25. A ton of ifs and buts for now. It's like trying to decipher weather someone is still depressed deep down , we'll never know bc they can hide it.

[@KiaRoane]

“The internet depends on black people” that’s actually all of it right there!

[@eliasjakemoran6434]

I mean, sure?

[@hotties3v3n]

Look around you.

[@pingu3984]

Imagine being this self absorbed.

[@nmpoy]

Jennifer Carter why are you here?

[@lineavictoria2631]

aya jay because she disagrees 🙄....

[@KatBlaque]

Ugh love this take. Love this hair. Love the shirt. Love you

[@bigteacup413]

Oo girl, I'm a fan of yoursss

[@jevinday]

capitalism is ruining EVERYTHING WAAAAAHHHHHH. y'all need a reality check, you have no idea how good we have it. but if you want to you can go live in China or North Korea. Let me know how it is!

[@awesomedude5558]

WAIT KAT YOU'RE HERE, TOO???!!!??!!!!??!!??! *OH MY GOD, I YOU'RE SICH A GREAT CHANNEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD :))))))))))))))))))*

[@BlakeGeometrio]

@@jevinday Ironic.

[@BlakeGeometrio]

Kat! 🥺

[@gellotion]

When and where did acrylic nails become considered an exclusively or primarily Black thing? I keep hearing this referenced in KZbin videos, but growing up in NYC that's never been the case 🤷‍♂️

[@whitneyriemer2514]

I think the main point surrounding the acrylic nails is the huge difference of judgement toward poc women vs white women.

[@traumer9622]

But if the problem is the judgement from third parties, why aren't the judgemental people the centre of discussion/ or why these things are perceived different?

[@chancerystone4086]

@@whitneyriemer2514 then the issue is sexism, not race. Are black women more judged than white, absolutely, but that's more to do with them being women and yes, historical attitudes to black women. And I have to say that I hear a LOT of these attitudes coming out of black women towards other black women. That's normal, women internalize misogyny and direct at each other, but that doesn't mean white women with long nails are the problem. The horrific misogyny you hear in a lot black music, particularly rap, does NOTHING to help black women to be taken seriously, yet I seldom hear young black males in the firing line for these attitudes to black women.

[@cheeks6310]

It seems in the states you'd be hard pressed not to offend people. Isn't the nails thing etc etc stereotyping in itself? Didn't long nails begin in Asia? America sounds like a mine field where you're gonna be demonised for anything no matter what your intention "evil old whitey" etc. It's so reductionist. In UK most young urban people of every race or cultural background are influenced by Jamaican culture for example Jamaican slang and patois and it's seen as the norm. I've yet to see a Jamaican offended by it. Isn't mimicking is a form of flattery? Isn't every race mimicking something of another race's attributes? Hair colour, texture, eyes, skin, nose, eyelids, lips, ass etc etc. Everyone copies everyone. I guess the difference is America's history has destroyed any potential of just seeing a soul instead of guilty by associated skin colours by default. I get it when people complain when music is stolen from people or artists etc and gain fame when others don't but the Billie Eilish accusations thing stinks of pure pettiness

[@Tata-iu3fy]

@@cheeks6310 acrylic nails were invented by a white dentist in America.

[@hithisthers7214]

Billie has said that she dresses with baggy clothing because she's insecure about her body and doesn't want to be sexualised, which is completely understandable since she first came to fame when she was a teenager. I dress baggy all the time, not cause of fashion but because i'm fat asf and need to cover that a lil bit

[@GStampedeIII]

She ditched the hood look like Miley, now she's showing her body.. like Miley. Seems like it was just an excuse

[@oreo-sr2pq]

@@GStampedeIII literally wasn’t. She hasn’t changed her style at all. She’s still the same Billie. Wearing baggy clothes so she won’t be shamed but at the point now of being 20 and having been in the music industry since 14, she learned slowly to stop caring so much.

[@MakaylaLynnOnYoutube]

I’m glad you mentioned that she’s not claiming ownership of anything. If I know Billie, as a pretty big fan, I know she would much rather deflect any form of ownership when it comes to her entire life, aside from her music / talent (even then she’ll reference FINNEAS to explain her fame and steep rise). She has an incredible style, but has a much deeper reasoning (surrounding the consumption of the female body) for why she wears the baggy clothing. If she was influenced, great. We are black influencers by NATURE. If she were to Kardashian-ize her style and start re-naming and taking compliments for what she clearly has not created, thennnn that would be a problem. We have to keep humanity in the play when we get extremely technical. If people don’t keep a close eye on Billie, they wouldn’t know how she functions and how she self-deprecates as much as she does. She’s not the monster that people want her to be because she’s not wired like that (at least for now-I’m not turning a blind eye to how quickly people can change). Thanks for talking about this! It needed to be said! I agree with so much of this video, but really hope people in the comments don’t take vocabulary and run miles with it without knowing who this child is. Billie was a fan since day one, and her fame can’t deem her illegitimate just because she blew up and has remained a FAN (of certain styles / culture).

[@kokolatte825]

Thank you! I'm a bit of a fan. I don't follow everything she does, but she's definitely talented. I think there are people just desirable to not like her because they aren't interested in her talent and I guess the only female singer to wear baggy clothes should be Aaliyah? I'm not even sure what the criticism of her really is. Baggy, High-end Italian label clothes? Please. I wish Black twitter would put all this energy behind something that could make a difference for us, like better schooling.

[@Rabbittavo]

@@kokolatte825 Ownership of our culture is a great way to make a difference. Making institutions that support and gatekeep our image can do wonders for our media and narratives outside and inside education. The black image thrououg8history has been used as a weapon against us and a part of that is the credit given to others whether stated by then or not. Most people think black people haven't contributed to cellphones, computers. Rockets and NASA . This image still has to wait for white audiences to make it to public viewing. Imo if we were more critical we wouldn't see our ingenuity dismissed until it is worn/done by others. I don't particularly have an opinion in Billie, I wish her the best but I do think it's an issue larger than any one person.

[@kokolatte825]

@@Rabbittavo I wish people would put THIS energy behind informing people of ALL these other contributions rather than baggy clothes. You don't see Black Twitter in an uproar over educating people about all the Blacks people that have contributed to NASA projects. Or all the contributions from Blacks that have even brought us the internet to begin with. I don't hear an uproar over these things. But your saying criticizing Billie and her Gucci acrylics is the right step in that direction. Okay girl 💅🏾

[@teniellemounts-williams64]

@A M name a time period black people have ever enslaved white people. Give me tribe a historical... anything. I'm challenging you to critically think, because it seems like you haven't done that in a while.

[@MPPG663]

@@teniellemounts-williams64 @AM is a racist. They've been bouncing around the comments leaving all sorts of derogatory statements against anyone who criticizes this artist. They aren't even worth the time.

[@tokoviastarot]

"Early 2000's NBA draft pick" 😂😂😂😂 you are wild😂

[@MrMsLoveLee]

Before I heard her say that I was thinking the girl look like a Mexican gangster in that oversized outfit with the scarf. Lol

[@lr8719]

When I first saw her style,I though "Oh, Missy Elliot" My second thought was "Senior,female, New York, jewish art dealer" 🤷‍♀️

[@jacquesandrevanstraaten8439]

She comes from a generation where rap culture is popular. It's like when grunge was popular in the 90's. Certain clothing, activities and music become the defining part of a certain generation. These trends have been happening for a long time. It's pointless dividing ourselves like this and let people live (if it isn't hurting people or breaking the law it's okay) .

[@goneswimming7346]

jacques andre van straaten did you even watch the video... she literally said all of that. This is what happened when you respond without listening

[@jacquesandrevanstraaten8439]

@@goneswimming7346 I'm agreeing with her just saying it in a way I understand and view it. So I'm not disagreeing just stating my understanding.

[@kaylabey]

i just want to know if during that time did you see a whole subculture of black artists coming out and basically stealing that image? bc if so, then yes i see your point. but otherwise, logically it doesn’t make sense.

[@blameitoncapitalism]

you didn't even see the video before typing that needlessly defensive, blatantly ignorant pointless comment. you didn't even hear what she had to say. you're the one who's "dividing".

[@paoloignacio1639]

This just puts into perspective what conversations about culture will look like for kids born in the 2010s and so forth.

[@TheThriftQueen]

Paolo Ignacio I cant wait to hear it lol

[@roxanne4746]

Well if we take a look at the teenagers these days, using a crap ton of self tanner and wearing urban attire and then swearing they aren't black fishing, they just happen to like to look tan, is the spotlight of concern, as there have been far too many kids doing so on Instagram. I imagine there will just be an increase of that disaster.

[@bakinbacon8659]

A M There’s a difference between just naturally tanning in the sun and spray tan which is what people like Ariana grande do

[@roxanne4746]

@A M that's very different than changing 10 shades darker than you typically are.

[@bakinbacon8659]

Roxanne Funny how A M has no response to this. I guess they realized how ridiculous their comment was.

[@TheJules315]

You gave us well rounded perspective. You gave us audiobook tease. You gave us a book club plug. You gave us looks, all so seamlessly. And for that I say, well done.

[@DorothyDandridge]

TheJules315 this comment 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@blessedc4256]

Excellent summary of it all 👏🏽👏🏽

[@KisssmyASH]

The way blue ivy took that youngest artist to win a Grammy spot gives me life

[@kennedylauren1642]

i’m a huge fan of billies and i think you explained it perfectly i just wish others would get it as much as you do so thank you for that💖also i’m in love with your hair and you’re really pretty

[@adelet.4187]

Daaaamn this is the best take on cultural appropriation I've seen in a long time (or probably ever) on KZbin. Pop culture has always been an extension of black culture, and individuals artists, especially the 2000s kids, should be seen in that context. Most artists don't culturally appropriate because of malevolence but because of ignorance. They don't know or think about the roots of whatever style they're copying because it has been sucked out of that context and into pop culture. Although some people are not just ignorant but willfully ignorant and unwilling to learn and change their ways in which case they should be properly dragged. I really appreciate you looking at the the big picture instead of isolating the topic just to one artist and their nails and clothing or whatever. It's refreshing to see someone speak about popular culture in a way that is both unashamedly intellectual as well as entertaining and easy to understand. Also, that shirt is bomb.

[@hinckson]

A M humanity is a culture ? Where is that located

[@galileerwamiye3669]

A M you where ever you are from you don’t have the same culture as me ( I’m from Burundi 🇧🇮) and Yes we are all human and Yes you can appropriate my culture

[@karmicobsession1636]

We live in cultures within cultures within cultures. We share culture and we don't share culture all at the same time and there are many at all the times and we go in and out of them everyday. You share culture with someone everywhere you go no matter where you come from no matter what race or nationality you are.

[@bakinbacon8659]

Regis think about it this way Say your doing a class project. If somebody copied your project and got a better grade than you, you’d be upset. That’s how we feel about cultural appropriation. There’s nothing wrong with appreciating other cultures but when you wear cultural stuff and then try to call it yours and rename it thats when it is a problem.

[@Silva.Editor]

Regis you clearly have no concept of history. We didn’t just make the word up it had meaning and people added a label to that meaning. So many cases of white musical artists stealing from black artists in the late 90s. So many cases of black women being kicked out of school for wearing braids but none of white girls being punished the same way for the same thing. I understand what you mean but cultural appropriation was caused by white people for centuries. Stealing cultures or white washing them (example: every biblical figure). It’s juts now that social media exists it’s talked about a lot more

[@kris6865]

These are pretty sad times for everyone- Those who have accomplished a goal or had some sort of success that was meant to be honored with a ceremony that has now been cancelled. those students who look forward to going to school to get away from toxic house holds,. Those who suffer from mental disorders who may not need to be stuck inside Those who rely on physical interaction with others to make money. and so many more.. Yes she is definitely a product of the era that she was born/ grew up in so I agree it is not specifically her appropriating. I just hate when non Black ppl take an old trend from Black culture and try to make it seem like it's their own fresh new idea (which is what many are doing today). Thank goodness we have the ability to easily access (thanks to the internet) those old videos and pictures or else there may not be a basis ( in some ppl's eyes)for this argument.

[@teniellemounts-williams64]

@A M I can tell you didn't even get 5 minutes in through this video because this lady said nothing on Billy actually appropriating Black culture . But I honestly think you just don't want to know and stay ignorant to the issue of the topic.

[@brittanyb.performanceart6140]

A M yea me neither

[@jxsinn]

@A M are you illiterate? Rewatch the video idiot. She said that billie never claimed to invent this style so shes not appropriating. Thats literally in the video. Now we KNOW you didnt watch it

[@mylovelykids2704]

Wym old black culture... Black culture is black culture period old and new it's OURS to embrace

[@kris6865]

@@mylovelykids2704 umm didn't say old culture it said old trends... I definitely know no matter old or new it's still our culture 🤦🏽‍♀️. The point was it's easier to take something old and try to flip it as being something you made up instead of giving the originators credit. Something the Kardashians and other white ppl love to do all the time.

[@anamarti3817]

This was so well explained and extremely interesting. I’m so glad I found your channel!

[@kaleahcollins4567]

SHE WAS RAISED IN THE TIMES OF LOVE AND HIP HOP

[@misipar1934]

Billie eillish s style reminds me of Aaliyah but history will tell this is nothing knew. Music industry loves black culture on non black artist .

[@idkbrosstudios8446]

Aaliyah was the it girl, and these people today try to copy her natural swagger and it never works

[@irrelevance3859]

That last sentence pretty much says it all. If Billie was black (especially darkskinned) I'd very much doubt she'd get the recognition she does. Because she's white her style is edgy, wow, new and different which is essentially what made her popular. Her being 'different'

[@kennynelson7585]

Irrelevance there are edgy black people. billie being black doesn’t mean her style has to change.

[@lisah8438]

Billie Ellish is 18 years old. She probably doesn't even know who Alliyah is. She is nothing like Aalyah minus the fact she wears baggy clothes. She is more like Avril Lavigne who was the whitest singer in the 2000s. Plus you are aware that Bille Ellish wears baggy clothes because she doesn't want people to sexualize her right. I am not even a fan of Billie but I am tired of people complaining about Cultural appropriation. Especially since Billie wasn't even alive back then.Plus what teenager besides Billie wears baggy clothes in 2020.

[@lisah8438]

@@irrelevance3859 There are edgy black people.

[@h.peters]

They do say Black Culture is in fact Pop Culture.

[@gentleoutdoors]

Same as Elvis Presley with his inspiration of African-American Blues, look how famous he became. Its been a thing with artists for a long time its so unfortunate black culture gets mugged off still to this day🙄

[@Kashmachine10]

By black do you mean African American or African? Because African Americans are a completely different culture to Africans.

[@SamuelSouza-di6nq]

@@Kashmachine10 Yeah, Im black and im not African American, neither African. Black people is around the world....

[@jamesmanuel4648]

In the age of cancel culture, this is such an astute and considerate breakdown. This is something we see and feel everyday. It is a consistent slap in the face. Thank you for sharing your perspective so eloquently.

[@YaGirlTayja]

love love love the topic!! Golden points made, thank you for your content!

[@imaniharris6958]

Yeah I don’t think she’s necessarily appropriating black culture, I think she’s smart enough to understand what her platform stands for. She also says that she likes baggy clothes because she didn’t want to sexualized. However you can obviously see what era/culture her style is influenced from. Btw my top fave songs that I suggest listening to. Beware that these songs are very melodic and serene: Ocean eyes, When the Party’s Over, Lovely ft Khalid, I Love You, and Hostage are in my top five from her.

[@paulgotik]

Every black american culture is influenced by european culture. Jazz one of the biggest things for black culture was appropriated instruments and melodies from european culture and changed a little bit by black people.

[@johisunix8637]

there all making billie the villain like in pretty she understands the type of clothes she's wearing and what they represent I think the woman in the vudoe was overreacting and overcriticizing a little.

[@SunshineKK99]

The problem here is that Black people didn't put a patent on Black culture. Black people wanted ALL races to embrace hip hop and OUR culture. So Black people got what they wanted so I don't get the whole cultural appropriation thing now....🤷🏾‍♀️

[@Call-me-Al]

I am not talking about Eilish, but if you heavily are influenced by specific minority cultures, then it's important to constantly credit those cultures and use those things with respect, and not profit off them to the detriment of the minority group. All races embracing hip hop and black culture is good, but to profit off it at the detriment of the originators isn't good.

[@anaananab]

There are black artists and creators who come out saying they create for people who look like them. They get backlash everytime.

[@JohnBrown-gi8pj]

We didn't want that....

[@willvanmoss6664]

S. Koiley the problem is when white people steal from distinct Black cultural aspects and then claim it as their own. e.g. vogueing, corn rows, dread locks etc. without giving credit where they found it and then flaunting it around as if they’re the greatest thing on earth (getting money off of it), while those who truly embody and founded said culture are still underrepresented and struggling! Billie is someone who grew up with black culture surrounding her and it thus has become part of the default American ‘youth’ culture even though it finds its origins in black culture. She doesn’t claim she invented the style or it’s just HER thing. She likes those things because that’s how she grew up and it’s become the norm for young people! So that’s the difference. There are certain things though that are definitely claimed by black culture and white people should never even try to do (I’m thinking about cornrows for example)! There’s a difference between growing up surrounded by black culture which then may have become your normal and having grown up in a different culture and then stealing from another culture! That’s what cultural appropriation is 😉

[@thatyoutubeguy7583]

@Island Roena PREACH

[@SM-BSW]

I’m so glad I found this video. This is the most thoughtful video on cultural appropriation I’ve seen! Subscribed.

[@CP-ti8fl]

This was so well done. Thanks for sharing!

[@nalayeplikethelion]

A lot of y’all down here didn’t watch before commenting and it shows .

[@carolinesimeon4361]

As a member of class of 2020 i am hurt so i appreciate you understanding what’s it’s like for us. My best friend just got a refund for her prom tickets so it all really sucks.

[@RapCritic]

This shirt is perfect👐🏽

[@DoveLady]

yes, i want

[@nsane4stargate]

Yet, no one realizes that being on KZbin and getting paid through ads, sponsorships, doing product reviews, and selling your products to your audience, IS A FORM OF CAPITALISM!! How ironic and hilarious

[@seekingpeaceofself]

@@nsane4stargate You definitely make a good point there.

[@azure1840]

No, is not

[@adrianramsey1369]

@@nsane4stargate capitalism is awesome

[@jacquelinejacqueline162]

This is what we need..... Love your Explanations, Humour, Character and Topics. Keep up the Great Work.

[@jaymsleedan]

so to sum it up black culture is thee culture.

[@llexcusesll7933]

A M You comment under almost everything. How pressed are you about black people?

[@tayeant1]

Culture = tribalism = division = emotional opinions = hate

[@00II0]

​@A M So, a language is a culture? You just "blow" your statement "out the water." Language is a verbal (and non-verbal) use of communication. The definition of culture is where there are a shared value and belief system within a GROUP of "human" beings. You use the vocabulary of "culture" very inappropriately by placing it out of its context. So yes, there is "black" culture, as there is a distinct cultural difference between northern italians and southern italians...

[@sasha-kayshorter6370]

@A M plz tell us all wtf is human culture because you preach it oh so often

[@zekekimo]

A M Language is just an aspect of culture so idk what you did with that...😬

[@goneswimming7346]

I think Billie Eilish is talented but I see her more as an industry plant based on the algorithm of what is popular Lana del Rey and Lordes indie whisper apathy SoundCloud artist low production minimal beats Egirl aesthetics I do think she is guilty of reaping the benefits of innovators and risk takers before her and she is a sum of output of the popular trends over the past decade without originating them Edit: I am aware Lana del Rey is a poor man’s Mazzy Star she didn’t invent anything either. If Mazzy star released an album and were up against Lana Del Rey, Lana would win because she the more popular than the artist she borrowed from. The Grammys are a popularity contest

[@user-fx5yw1rs8c]

I mean she do have family in the industry so its much more easy for her.

[@kokolatte825]

True, but WHO honestly originates anything nowadays? The ONLY person I can think of is Solange. Everyone else nowadays Black or White or anything else is just a new copy of something old.

[@idkbrosstudios8446]

A M Blue Ivy is only eight tho. All she’s done is singing a song on her moms track. Tbh I don’t even think Blue Ivy will grow up to even wanna be a singer. But Jayden Smith? 100%

[@bibaolaitan5189]

And yes her geniusity was in combining all those trends to make master music.. don't hate her for that...

[@bibaolaitan5189]

@@kokolatte825 exactly...

[@melcel9003]

Idk, some of the things you talked about like the hoop earrings and baggy clothes remind me more of Chola culture which is prevalent in Southern California (where she is from). The 90s groups you showed also remind me of chola/pachuca culture, which was around in the 40s. Not saying its appropriation, but possibly inspired by a different culture rooted in the area she grew up in...

[@melcel9003]

@@mindingmybusiness8477 you mention a lot of what black men were wearing. Was this also what black women were wearing?

[@babirico4473]

Youshould'vesatthere &8yofood also In Latin America they wore hoop and drop earrings so it’s also apart of their culture as well.

[@igotdasauce1318]

You sound stupid

[@sweetladyfromdc]

@@babirico4473 the point isn't that hoop earrings aren't found in another cultures. Obviously, you have missed the point. Hoop earrings originated in Africa...It's the entire look...The baggy clothes, earrings, nails...

[@sweetladyfromdc]

Prior to the emergence of Cholo style in the late 1960s, Chicano youth created the Pachuco subculture, adopting the baggy, draped zoot suit of Harlem jazz musicians, making it their own. And...Cholo style is influenced by hip hop...This is the point...

[@leviathonCage]

Thanks for putting this so well. Appreciate your voice.

[@victoriam9242]

Class of 2020 here! Worked so hard to graduate a year early and now I don’t get a graduation.

[@PrincessKLS]

Victoria m I’m so sorry to hear about that . Damn you #coronavirus

[@Covers-and-Commentary]

Nowadays I can’t really sum up the energy to care. 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@madamepaka]

Same. I gave up a long time ago. I just want to live in peace. Being an sjw added too much stress to my life.

[@paulgotik]

@@madamepaka literally every culture borrows from each other constantly and there's no credit given. Jazz uses european instruments, I don't see any black people appreciating european cultures because of that.

[@mlolvera91]

All I hear is Billie constantly trying not to offend people, and people still being offended. Im pretty sure I read somewhere that she only wears big cloths so people won’t make comments about her body. Idk how true that is, but if it is, than obviously there’s something wrong with her mindset. She should just do what she wants if everyone is gonna be so dam hurt about it all the time 😩

[@kimbernimue7721]

This was insanely well said, loved the whole video and feel I came away with a better understanding of *whole* the situation; thank you!

[@melodope]

I didn’t know I needed this! Side note: I was surprised to hear the way she speaks..seems like the cadence in her voice might be influenced in a similar way.

[@ddoubleu170]

Billie looks like the 4th member of the Migos.

[@awacisse2775]

Dead😂

[@rnd1942]

Lmao 😭😭😭

[@halloweenjean]

Hello Again Funny how your religions and language was forcefully brought to our countries by colonialism and imperialism

[@ann-maryn1232]

@Hello Again lmao u seem to want to only fight then its about u or when it furthers your narrative, shut up with your "i'm a good person" narrative. cuz everyone can see straight though u. 🙄

[@ann-maryn1232]

@Hello Again lmao i have a problem with fake people and ulterior motives.

[@hajeraa]

yesssss !!!!! finallyyyy someone is having this conversation !!! like seriously, we must talk about it !!!!!

[@hMusic-tb8hl]

This video was great, thank you so much for your work !

[@kaylao.3326]

Ooooh lovin’ the hair!!! 😍

[@zanaleezee]

I’ve been curious about Billie Eilish lately, not so much because I think her music is great but because every interview I’ve seen with her, she appears disarmingly authentic as a person. I don’t really enjoy her aesthetic take on Black Cultural style but she clearly has talent and a rawness as an artist that I rarely see in seasoned performers. This clear and well researched break down of exactly what era produced Eilish helped me to understand more about where she’s coming from. Her generation of Whiteness doesn’t even know from cultural appropriation. They consumed Black culture through a very White consumable lens. Man, I don’t know if that’s more dangerous than overt culture appropriation or not.

[@lidiapietrusza5014]

the internet makes so much info and images available that these people can look and be influenced and take styles without even knowing who theyre taking from lol

[@chioma916]

"Her generation of Whiteness doesn’t even know from cultural appropriation. They consumed Black culture through a very White consumable lens." !!!!! so important

[@WreathStorm]

@Hello Again I agree so much. I think people are so sensitive to racism that they forget that humans influence each regardless of physical features.

[@user-il4ei4dd5h]

i love your videos, i always click off them feeling well and truly educated. thank you

[@unstxr]

This is my first time watching one of your videos and I’m hooked!! About to join the #SmartBrownGirl 🙌🏾

[@Einyang13]

Thank you for thinking of Class of 2020! I'm a graduating senior and it's been pretty rough. All of a sudden I'm back home with my parents, didn't get to properly say goodbye to friends and professors, may not have a graduation. But it's going to be okay. Anyways thank you for this! I'm living on youtube and social media to pass the time lol

[@lifeonabudget8513]

I couldn't place who she was dressing like but as soon as you showed SWV (Mary J Blige, etc.), you nailed it. I don't think she is making money off of black people and culture per say, because her music is whisper-singing like Lisa Loeb.. But, she is definitely dressing like 90s black girls, no doubt. You hear how she talks with black infliction and vernacular, too...chile.

[@GhGh-ci8ld]

Life On A Budget yes but should anyone else wear baggy clothes they’re immediately called out for copying her ‘aesthetic’

[@SI-cd7xs]

90s black girls started to dress like that AFTER grunge had already taken over the world and made baggy clothes popular.

[@jclyntoledo]

Someone explain to me how someone talks "black" or with "black infliction and vernacular"... what does that even mean though?! 🤨🤨

[@sinouna_7296]

Just dress how u want ..idc....as long as u dont claim it as your own...but sometimes as Black ppl we need to chill

[@movethebowlplease]

literally you’re my fav. truly inspired.

[@whizzardblizzard5696]

I personally think she does this to stand out from a sea of female pop stars whose aesthetic are nowadays mostly sexual. So she took the baggy route as her personal style at the expense of appropriation. It worked for her as I can immediately distinguish her aesthetically.

[@iriswilson7387]

This conversation needs to been done. Remember that seen in Black Panther when the Princess called the white guy “Colonizer” . At any rate, you are such a #Smartbrowngirl By the way, love the hair.

[@ibewalkingwiththecheesecak2565]

Great analysis. Never really thought about it, but this makes total sense

[@aw7226]

I really wish you would have mentioned or taken into account that Billie dresses the way she does to hide her body so people can't judge her based on that. I think it's obvious that Da Brat and Aaliyah were not concerned with that.

[@Missyxmisfit]

ty for pointing that, out cuz i been waiting for someone or her to say that.

[@NaturallyDOPE0990]

DaBrat definitely was. As a queer woman she did not want to be sexualized so she would’ve been a perfect example. Missy, Queen Latifah, and MC Lyte all wore oversized clothes to not be sexualized but rather to be seen as serious MC’s. I really wish y’all would do the research before talking.

[@DementedEscape]

Omg she’s not the only female artist that didn’t want to be sexualized! Ever heard of Missy Elliot or Da Brat and yes even Aaliyah. Nvm you’re the youth/internet culture she speaks of.

[@aw7226]

@@DementedEscape Sorry you can't read other comments...

[@KTRN52]

I was nervous to watch this because I thought the child was about to get dragged but as always you nailed it.

[@MarianDrayton]

2001. I was in the 8th grade, I say that to say I LITERALLY remember where I was. This “feeling old” thing can smack the ish outta you. Oh my goodness. 🤣 In all seriousness, I feel that some who may be around my age (mid to late 80’s babies, didn’t feel like looking up what letter generation I am) are forgetting we are a bit hybrids. We grew up “smelling like outside,” yet social media entered our lives when we were young in adulthood. I saw the term “ the bridge generation.” We saw Lil Kim and Megan, Living Single and Girlfriends, AND Insecure. I can’t speak for Mo one else, but it does take me back a bit when you see “repeated” aspects of culture. I guess that’s what our parents have been saying all these years, when things “come back in style,” I think the difference is obvious this time around. You explained this amazingly, and I think when people literally take into consideration how old these ppl are and what life looked like when THEY grew up, it’ll make more sense what influenced them. Of course capitalist are going to “go there,” (major eye roll when I see “fleek” on a T Shirt in a store 😒), but I do feel a grace should be given to those who aren’t taught certain histories through pictures and content from an app that came out not even 2 decades ago. Now if they refuse to learn, we’ll cross that bridge, but it would be more productive to give them a chance to show willingness to do so. Greeeeeeat discussion again, you look good girl! 💜💜💜

[@generaldogsbody8743]

Good god! Iv'e been waiting for SOMEONE to make this video!!! Thank You @jouelzy !!! So glad your'e talking about someone like Billie who's so influential and letting people know about what she's really doing!

[@rubyvuitton6623]

I just found you but I love you already! I was born in 99, and grew up with a mixed family and black culture was a part of my childhood too, ESPECIALLY from the internet! I myself haven't been accused of cultural appropriation, but I do see the term get thrown around too loosely, you explained it perfectly! ❤️

[@nicole-ns1hj]

Love the mention of Tyler, the creator! He has been robbed too much.

[@cheerleaderMelanie]

Hey Jouelzy I watched the whole video and I can sorta of follow what your saying and I appreciate the viewpoint . I actually really like Billies music ( it gives me FKA twigs vibes). Her fashion is a definite miss for me. I don’t personally think she’s culturally appropriating. I agree she’s just a product of growing up gen z. I do think she’s overly hyped for the most part. Can you do a video about tik tok. For some reason the app really agitates me. Idk if it because it screams mediocre Caucasians or what. I just want your thoughts on it. I could be tripping lol.

[@yendaaaa]

My20somethings Your last paragraph might be what I’ve been trying to put into words about the way I feel about the app LOL i cant i cant i cant with it! I really cannot😫😫

[@jouelzy]

Lol I recorded a video about TikTok on this same day as this one. It'll be up after my bday.

[@cheerleaderMelanie]

Jouelzy Yess i can’t wait !

[@cheerleaderMelanie]

yendaaaa yes i understand and i swear Instagram is shoving it down my throat and i don’t appreciate it 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@shelliepowers2660]

I can’t with tiktok I have it and won’t get it, my coworkers love it. It’s the same tired crap over and over by all races lol trash 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@JnoJoy]

that was such neatly explained! thank you!

[@lotsalottie4565]

Big hoop earrings isn’t just Black culture, Romani people also wear hoops, usually gold, with their Dikhlo’s

[@mizzwanned]

Hispanics too forever

[@lisahodge6541]

@SpaceBoy Stop trying to claim everything as black culture

[@yeonkimin7366]

Even we Indians wear it since ancient times

[@zgurl94]

I definitely agree! I'm 25 and I'm definitely a Billie fan, but it is clear what has influenced her style. I love her music though.

[@cherylmanley]

Break it down for us as if we are 2 years old so we can understand what this colonialism in music is all about I love the way you break things down why I'm subscriber every once in awhile when I feel like I need some brain stimulation.

[@OliviaNewsom]

Great video, learned some information I didn’t know but also when you started talking about 2000s that took me back, it is crazy how things have changed since we were growing up (1993 baby here) lol. For sure subbed 💕

[@mano0n]

Very interesting !!! Thank you so much. P.S. : This shirt, FFS, loving it.

[@susanasanchezmunoz1389]

i strongly reccomend everyone watching this to read on Rosalia's cultural appropiation, specially gitano culture. It is a very discussed subject in Spain, but not very known abroad.

[@555.J]

@Guerdy Rene They did not say that she was doing that just reccomendding it.

[@mamieglay6228]

You have a young audience here too Jouelzy 😂 miss you hun 😊

[@rickyslost3231]

This video is so informative and well done thank you. You added a lot of nuance to the discussion

[@torimakesmusic]

This video was so good! Thank you :)

[@gretchengeorge5302]

Maybe I’m biased because I like her, but your breakdown of her aesthetic was so refreshing to hear. I think people got to a point where they were more concerned about looking “woke” instead of calling out actual appropriation, as we see in the comment section.

[@teqkio]

Not y’all trying to cancel her for wearing clothes...she literally wears big clothes because she was insecure about her body...

[@isasart9359]

You obviously haven’t watched the full video.

[@Faisaluvs]

This was a really good breakdown on the topic. Very insightful.

[@christiandavis2350]

This. Was. AWESOME! I feel like this is the first time I’ve used my brain in weeks, thank you for creating a video with such great facts and supporting details. I just loved the whole thesis on this and the video and general. I love that it made me think and actually debate with myself.

[@ElizaAlmanza]

The way she talks tho upsets me tbh. I know damn well she didnt grow up talking with that accent.

[@JatJelz]

Billie Eilish got the nerve to talk shit about the hip hop artist not being authentic but she jocking they whole style. #industryplant

[@dreamsofwaffles]

Receipts? Damn it must be from the clout and mediocrity

[@PinkRedBrisk]

@@dreamsofwaffles she criticizes how some rappers rap about the same cliche subjects and then she said the rappers who she knows personally don't do the things they rap about. Which is an accurate fair criticism (not to say every rapper needs to be deep but I wish we had more mainstream rappers who rap about different things), not every rapper is Kendrick or j cole, noname, etc

[@JatJelz]

​@@PinkRedBrisk That's not really her place to comment considering that she is not a rapper and not apart of the Hip Hop community. That is like a rapper randomly questioning the authenticity of country or punk rock.

[@JatJelz]

@@dreamsofwaffles She said this in Vogue magazine.

[@PinkRedBrisk]

@@JatJelz Country is stolen from black people so I don't agree there. BUT to everything else that's fair to say, I see where you're coming from. But again it's a fair criticism and if she was praising the music her being white (pop/trap singer) wouldn't be a problem.

[@snowflakewarrior9711]

Sis I just found you tonight & Ice watched 3 of your videos so far Thank You so Much I Appreciate You Greatly ❤🖤💚

[@rosebud0391]

I appreciate this so much. Thank you!! It's articulating everything I have wanted to say but didn't know-how. From now on I'm linking your video because many forget that this area is neither black nor white. There is a lot of grey in there. Best to you :)

[@CoutureByKrystal]

Billy has stated that she likes to dress in oversize clothes because she does not want to be slut shamed. She’s said since she has curves and she is only a minor she feels more comfortable in wearing baggy cloths so people can focus on her music and not her body. However she has mentioned that when she reaches 18 she may actually start wearing clothes that does show her curves. We will see what she actually does, but As of right now she’s publicly said that she wears oversize clothes to hide her curves at her body. I personally don’t think she’s culture appropriation I think she just has her style. I do think that you have some amazing points when it comes to the Grammys and I do think that should be addressed and fixed.

[@PinkRedBrisk]

This is what I've thought about Billy but didn't have the words to express it clearly and concisely. (I'm a huge fan of Billie put I was worried about what she could represent)

[@a90107]

one of the best videos / talks ive seen on this topic.

[@ZzzzzzoeEEEeE]

You worded this so well. Like damn thank you.

[@ramonianelson7410]

My birthday is on the 24 and I’m just like 😩😩! And yes, these canceled graduations are so very sad. I hope the schools have late ceremonies for the students.

[@tokoviastarot]

Mine is too!! Happy Birthday 🎉🎉🎂

[@god_given]

Did anyone else catch that low key shade thrown at Virgil Abloh?

[@michalapalmer8874]

rightly deserved shade lol

[@nhguar]

Sure did!

[@god_given]

@@michalapalmer8874 what's the tea? ☕

[@hijibaka]

i never turn off ad block but i did to watch this video. i need to remember to start turning it off for creators making content with actual sustenance. love your shirt btw!

[@haselnusszweig5533]

Amazing video ! So interesting thank you very much 🙏🏻

[@iThiink]

I think we as black people need to stop being bitter and accusing everyone of cultural appropriation. The word has no meaning anymore.

[@paulgotik]

every culture influences each other as long as there's contact between them. Jazz uses euroean melodies and europen instruments, but black people still say it's their culture.

[@sneakernickel]

@@paulgotik You managed to spell european wrong two different ways.

[@briannab4037]

@@paulgotik The pseudo-intellectualism, I have to laugh.

[@tramainet5504]

@@paulgotik Because it is our culture. Jazz was invented by BLACK people. African Americans who were stationed in Europe (France) while in the Military introduced Jazz to the French and while they were there, the French gave them some tips in which they used. And from then on, Jazz musicians used their former techniques and the techniques they were taught by the French. Jazz is STILL black culture and will forever be ONLY BLACK culture, like it or not. Please, don't spread false information- Jazz is still ours... No one else's.

[@Lana_ryu]

In your defense, a lot of white people jump into the cultural appropriation trend too, because they want to cancel the people they don't like. So it's not just black people, everyone needs to stop throwing that word around.

[@Greenlady131]

America is a land of the free where all cultures come together if no cultures came together the world would always stay the same and everyone would only be allowed to eat what there culture created. That sounds like a world I dont want to live in. Always give respect to the culture that influenced you but still be yourself and experience this beautiful world!

[@tanukicookie]

thank you for this informative video, and im gonna read the book!! also, love your shirt lol. subscribed ❤️ glad i found you!

[@DanyPurpleGirl]

First time watching one of your videos and wow! I love how you explain.