The Rev. Al
Sharpton has recently taken the side of Michael Jackson, whose allegations
of racism in the recording industry have unearthed many questions.
In an effort to address these inevitable queries, the Rail presents this
exclusive interview with Rev. Sharpton.
The Rail:
You've called for a meeting of record executives to examine the issue of
racism in the recording industry. What exactly do you hope to achieve?
Al Sharpton:
We are looking to end the historical oppression and exploitation of African-American
music artists.
TR:
Can you name any individuals who have lost out because of the prevalence
of racism?
AS:
Well, no, they're not famous. Because they're being suppressed by
the great Anglo suppressor.
TR:
All right. Do you have a specific complaint that the record executives
can look at?
AS:
The top issue is what happens with the $25 million spent in promoting Michael's
last album. How much of it goes to the African-American community?
TR:
None, I suppose.
AS:
That's right. This is a travesty that must be alleviated immediately.
TR:
It goes to the advertisers and promoters. The people getting paid.
AS:
Don't avoid the issue. This history of racism has gone on too long;
we must deal with the problems at hand.
TR:
What do you think about the abundance of hugely successful black rappers?
AS:
Many of them are being exploited, being denied of the total rewards of
their talents by record company heads.
TR:
Being denied thousands of bottles of Courvoisier?
AS:
Exactly. My brothers may not speak out of fear, but they want their
fair share of Escalades like the rest of us.
TR:
So, if everything works out your way, more blacks will head record companies?
AS:
Correct.
TR:
And will we subsequently see more rap on MTV?
AS:
Yes, probably.
TR:
What an asshole.