African American singer-songwriter Janelle Monae, who is seeking to use her popularity to speak out against police brutality and racism, had her comments in support of the #BlackLivesMatter movement cut from a performance on the NBC's Today show on August 14.
The Source said the Atlanta artist appeared on the show to promote her Wondaland Records compilation album The Eephus.
Monae performed her new single, the visceral protest song “Hell You Talmbout”, which features the names of victims of police brutality.
Concluding the performance with a fiery speech, Monae shouted: “Yes Lord! God bless America! God bless all the lost lives to police brutality. We want white America to know that we stand tall today.
“We want Black America to know we stand tall today. We will not be silenced …”
Ironically that was the moment cameras cut from Monae to one of the show's anchors.
Billboard reported a source at Today said Monae’s performance was cut short simply due to time and nothing else. Regardless, it has not stopped the R&B singer from speaking out, joining a protest in New York City straight after the Today appearance, The Source said.
Video: 'Hell You Talbout' features the names of Black victims of police brutality. Janelle Monae & Wondaland - Hell You Talmbout (Eephus Tour Philadelphia 8-12-15). NastyBD Concerts.