Black creativity has always been the blueprint. From the music we vibe to, to the dances that go viral, to the art that shapes culture—Black folks have BEEN leading the way. But history shows us a pattern: when the genius comes from Black communities, the credit often goes elsewhere.

In this episode of Blacktivities, Shannon, Lisa, and KK unpack the long, painful legacy of cultural appropriation in the arts as we celebrate Black Music Month. From rock and roll and Big Mama Thornton to Black TikTok creators, we explore how Black brilliance has been borrowed, sanitized, and sold—while the originators get left behind.

Whether it's Elvis becoming the "King of Rock ‘n’ Roll" or white influencers going viral off Black dance moves, this episode dives deep into how credit, compensation, and control have been denied to Black artists for generations. And still—Black excellence persists.

Discussion Questions We Explore:

• Why is this conversation important? Or is it just “divisive” like some folks say?
• What’s the difference between appreciating Black culture and just taking from it?
• As Black creators, have you ever had your work appropriated?
• What can we do to make sure Black creators get their due?

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About the Hosts

Blacktivities is a Black Panache original production - a podcast network with a lineup of black-hosted shows sharing black stories and tackling black issues. For more information on shows like our newest production, Fat Lies Matter, visit blackpanache.com.

Continue the Conversation on Social Media:

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Follow Lisa - @monalisathepoet

Follow Karen - @theekkroberts

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• 3 of Elvis Presley’s Musical Influences That Really (Really) Did Not Like Him Back
• 'Copynorms,' Black Cultural Production, and the Debate Over African-American Reparations
• Black artists and appropriation | Why Race Matters

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