Pre-Islam Loon – via Badboy
It’s widely known that some members of the Black community have turned to the religion of Islam, as well as the Nation of Islam (NOI) as a spiritual foundation. There is plenty of speculation and insight as to why some in the Black community feel more of a connection to Islam and the Nation of Islam. It is reported that the African American community is more culturally and historically aligned with the teachings of Islam as it is more applicable and relevant to the struggles that the black community has historically witnessed in the United States.
Be that as it may, many MCs have also aligned themselves with the spiritual teachings of Islam and the NOI. Busta Rhymes, Mos Def, Freeway, Raekwon are only a few of the more popular MCs that are followers of Islam. Also, there is a very viable hip hop movement (http://www.muslimhiphop.com/) within the Muslim community that is garnering positive attention.
In 2002, Bad Boy artist and talented MC, Loon, was Diddy’s next big “star.” He was highlighted on many verses, had a decent album, and was placed in the spotlight of a then fledgling Bad Boy records. He lent his voice to the 2002 smash I Need a Girl ft. Usher. He was your prototypical pretty boy in the rap game; smooth flow, tough guy image, Bad Boy medallion, and waves.
Today, I must say, I was shocked to see the video below featuring Amir Muhadith, formerly, Loon, formerly Chauncey Lamont Hawkins. Not because of the content or the MCs decision. I’m not sure exactly why I was shocked. Remembering Loon in the I Need a Girl Video, then seeing him in the video below…I just wasn’t ready for it. There is absolutely nothing funny about his decision, but I was waiting for a Lorne Michaels to yell, “Cut!”
I absolutely respect Loon’s decision. Anybody looking to better themselves and create a foundation bigger than themselves get a thumbs up in my book. I hope that he is serious about this transition,and not using Islam in collaboration with his fame to make an over-hyped return to hip hop. *cough* MASE *cough*
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZFueqQnops&feature=player_embedded
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZFueqQnops&feature=player_embedded]
