I can't believe that we still gonna do that same sh-
Sometimes it gets so bad I can't even handle it
If I see another black boy die at the hands of this
I don't know
I wanna lose control
But it can't last forever
Seasons change as does the weather
Things are bound to get better
As the days go by
Make America great again
I think they mean it was great for them
'Cause it wasn't so great for everyone back then
So weigh in
I can have all the money and the fame and they still don't care
'Cause if I get pulled over, I still gotta live in fear
Martin said injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere
I hope we can give them
But nothing lasts forever
Seasons change as does the weather
Things are bound to get better
As the days go by
Make America great again
I think they mean it was great for them
'Cause it wasn't so great for everyone back then
So weigh in
You say America was at its greatest point in the 1950s? When we couldn't drink out your fountain, sit at your lunch counter, vote in your elections? America is great, for who? Was America great for Emmett Till? For Terence Crutcher? How 'bout the four little girls of the Central Park Five, or the Emanuel Nine? Was America great for Rodney King? For Fernando Castillo? For Sandra Bland or Pamela Turner? I don't even have the breath to say America is great. Eric Garner. Make America great again? Again when?
MAGA? by PJ Morton is a powerful song that addresses the complex issues surrounding the slogan "Make America Great Again" and the reality of systemic racism and inequality in America. The song's lyrics express frustration and a desire for change, while also questioning the notion of America's greatness.
PJ Morton starts by expressing his disbelief that we are still dealing with the same issues of racial injustice. He acknowledges that it can be overwhelming and difficult to handle the continuous deaths of black individuals at the hands of the authorities. This frustration is evident in his plea to "lose control" in order to express his anger and pain.
However, Morton recognizes that change is possible and that the current state of affairs cannot last forever. He acknowledges that seasons change, as does the weather, and with that change, things are bound to get better. This hope for a better future is a recurring theme throughout the song.
The title of the song, "MAGA?" is a direct reference to the slogan "Make America Great Again," which was popularized during the 2016 presidential campaign. Morton questions the true meaning of this slogan, suggesting that it may have been great for some, but not for everyone. He asks us to consider the historical context in which America was supposedly great and calls for a critical examination of the past.
In the song, Morton alludes to the civil rights movement and the struggles faced by black Americans. He references Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous quote, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere," highlighting the ongoing fight for equality and justice. Morton reminds us that America's greatness cannot be measured solely by economic success or personal achievements, but also by the treatment and equality of all its citizens.
As a Christian artist, Morton likely draws inspiration from scripture to support his message. One relevant verse is Micah 6:8, which states, "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and mercy, and encourages believers to actively pursue these virtues.
Another scripture that relates to the theme of the song is Galatians 3:28, which states, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This verse speaks to the unity and equality of all believers in Christ, regardless of their background or social status. It serves as a reminder that the divisions and inequalities present in society are not aligned with God's vision for humanity.
In conclusion, "MAGA?" by PJ Morton is a thought-provoking and honest song that challenges the notion of America's greatness. Through his lyrics, Morton addresses the ongoing struggle for racial equality, expressing frustration and a desire for change. Inspired by his Christian faith, Morton calls for justice and unity, reminding us that true greatness lies in treating all individuals with fairness and respect.
