Anderson .Paak - "Lockdown"

I’m almost 2 months late to this one, but it’s profound enough to warrant writing about it. “Lockdown” is another example of artists using the COVID isolation to create new music. While other artists have written about the emotions that come with isolation, Anderson .Paak tackles police brutality, racial injustice, and protest. The accompanying video has everyone wearing masks, referencing the COVID-19 pandemic without overriding the song’s intent. It’s a striking song and video, the latter ending with the names of multiple victims of police brutality. It’s not a light message by any stretch, but one that shouldn’t be ignored.

If you’re looking for resources in the fight against police brutality and systemic racism, including a list of organizations to donate to if you’re able, Pitchfork as a great list here.