santi + m.i.a.

Often heralded as the "the next M.I.A.," Santogold seems to get the short end of the hype-stick, at least in my mind. I think her album is great (granted, Switch's remix of "Shove It" is probably my favorite track of hers) and she is absolutely awesome live. Not only does she have two of the best backup dancers I've ever seen, she has an the most spirit I've ever witnessed in a performer. So, I've been bummed that people just lump her as an M.I.A. ripoff. Sure, she uses a wide variety of influences (read: worldly), has a unique aesthetic and sings with a distinct voice. But, whereas M.I.A. borrows from pan-Asian genres, I think Santogold gravitates more towards a '80's retro and dub hybrid. But, who uses what isn't really my point. It is that here is a really empowered, unique woman and people just want to dismiss her as an imitator. How many rappers out there get stoned and use the same exact method for a club hit and everyone just eats up? Way too many. Maybe gender is still more taboo than I thought and having a woman making her own music is a threat to some. We need more females in music, period. And especially those that are making music as a creative process. 

Luckily for us, that is just what Diplo has brought us on his recent Top Ranking mixtape. I think this song does more for cementing the fact that M.I.A. and Santogold are one hell of a force to be reckoned with when placed together than feeling the need to compare the two. Check it out here.