By: Antoinette Alston, contributing intern The day after protesting against police brutality in Philadelphia, Janelle Monáe and the entire Wondaland Records artists, released a new version to Monáe’s song, “Hell You Talmbout” to pay homage to the lives of the black men and women who were victims of police brutality. The track features Deep Cotton, Roman GianArthur, Jidenna, George 2.0 and St. Beauty, along with a catchy authentic chorus of heavy drum playing and chants singing, “Hell You Talmbout, Say It.” On Wednesday (Aug. 12) Monáe and Jidenna lead in a protest for, Black Lives Matter, in Philadelphia. Monáe marched with a sign that read, “Black Girl Magic.” The powerful song sparks reference to the lost lives of Trayvon Martian, Freddie Gray, Eric Garner, Sandra Bland, Sean Bell and many more black lives that have died by the police. “This song is a vessel. It carries the unbearable anguish of millions. We recorded it to channel the pain, fear, and trauma caused by the ongoing slaughter of our brothers and sisters. We recorded it to challenge the indifference, disregard, and negligence of all who remain quiet about this issue. Silence is our enemy. Sound is our weapon. They say a question lives forever until it gets the answer it deserves… Won’t you say their names?” Monáe wrote on her Instagram, on this morning (Aug. 13). The post generated 5,764 likes in just a few hours. Take a listen to the track below: Janelle Monáe’s new EP, The Eephus, is in-stores and online now! Photo credit: Noam Galai/Getty Images
