You've gotta give it to "The Daily Beast."  They really come up with some amazing things that they think categorize as news and/or thought-pieces.  But as long as they're going to write about this kind of thing, and there is response; naturally, we're gonna analyze opinion around it.  Now, besides the fact that many people clearly state that they have no problem being considered racist if that's what it takes to allow their belief that somehow Jay-Z (and wife) are part of something a bit sinister.  But beyond this, it opens up an important discussion regarding not just extreme wealth and how rare it is among African-Americans, but the shift toward social responsibility around that wealth (lest some be seen as actually something against good/God by exhibiting a lack of it).  The writer is berated  by commenters throughout sites for making the connection that conjecture about Jay-Z being involved in something supernatural is akin to racism. She is seen as "missing the point" by stretching and including a racial element when those of the same race as the recording artist are actually those who initiated the illuminati claims.  Worth noting is also the tone of exhaustion from commenters about the term racism being so easily thrown about without any deep dialogue and new elements.  Many sociologists are coming together more and more to say that we need a new race theory.  And, how!  In the meantime, think Jay loses any sleep at night over such accusations?  And what was Samuels' inspiration for writing such a piece, anyway?  Hmmmm.....

Temple University sociologis Howard Winant has said that we need a new race theory.  Films and the digital public sphere around them create talking points that could, perhaps, be leading us this way.  People have very different perspectives regarding words, images and how these sentiments and expression effect current day society.  (and, btw, Tarantino loves this word no matter whether it's slavery days or not - see the filmography).  Look for more confrontation in 2012 on how we view race and the race dynamic in this country - not purely as a result of film but also actual real-life events.  In the meantime, pass the popcorn?

First of all, this phenom actually seems to be a swinging back of the pendulum.  Certainly before the country was "founded", the Native Americans (people of color) were the majority.  And much later, a large part of the southwest of the US was inhabited by people who we now term Hispanics.  Second, given this shift the conversation about a "post-racial" America will become more and more ridiculous. What is really happening is that we are all figuring out new worlds, new demos and new values and perhaps a new concept of race/cateogrization, overall.  One thing is certain, watch for more and varied seats at the table to be demanded as time goes on given what is now the new "majority." But the real question is, given the new status, do you think white people will now have trouble getting a cab?  LOL

Another major gatekeeper passes away almost further demonstrating that the former way of doing things is over, giving birth to new methods and new ideas. He will be missed.   It is interesting how race even plays a part in obituaries.  Further, it is worth noting that in the new digital era, there is not just one main gatekeeper anymore to a genre or outlet as in Mr. Clark's brightest days.  This makes for an intriguing and welcomed new dynamic in the balance of power.  And for the many that do/will share this power in the new era, one would hope that they not only help with various artist exposure as Mr. Clark so brilliantly did; but also provide the actual production deals and grand visibility to new diverse on-air personalities similar to how we saw Mr. Clark put Ryan Seacrest on.