Harry Belafonte’s public critique was loud and clear:
“I think one of the great abuses of this modern time is that we should have had such high-profile artists, powerful celebrities. But they have turned their back on social responsibility… that goes for Jay-Z and Beyoncé, for example.”
The 2012 assessment (obviously) hit a sore spot for Jay-Z, who brusquely countered the actor, singer and civil rights icon on his new album Magna Carta … Holy Grail: “Mr. Day O/major fail/Respect these young’uns boy, it’s my time now”
The exchange over the meaning of social responsibility in 2013 has divided fans into two sects: those who feel Hov is dead wrong for counter-jabbing the critical world-class entertainer and civil rights activist and those who feel Jay is justified via fundraising, charities and foundations. In an effort to sort out both sides of the debate, VIBE rounded up a staunch Jay Z supporter and stern traditionalist to bring opposing stances. —John Kennedy
Click next to read each perspective on the debate >>>
