Full Description
Black celebrities in America have always walked a precarious line between their perceived status as spokespersons for their race and their own individual success--and between being "not black enough" for the black community or "too black" to appeal to a broader audience.
Few know this tightrope walk better than Kanye West, who transformed hip-hop, pop and gospel music, redefined fashion, married the world's biggest reality TV star and ran for president, all while becoming one of only a handful of black billionaires worldwide.
Despite these accomplishments, his polarizing behavior, controversial alliances and bouts with mental illness have made him a caricature in the media and a disappointment among much of his fanbase. This book examines West's story and what it reveals about black celebrity and identity and the American dream.
Contents
Table of Contents
Preface: Let's Have a Toast for the Douche Bags
Introduction: Kids See Ghosts
Part
Welcome to the Good Life: Kanye West and the Souls of Black Folk
One. "Pinocchio Story"
Two. "We Major"
Three. "Be Like Mike"
Part
Everything I Am: Becoming Kanye
Four. "Family Business"
Five. "Kardashian-West"
Six. "Homecoming"
Part III.
The Miseducation of Kanye West: Politics, Prayer, and Platforms
Seven. "Republicans Buy Yeezys Too"
Eight. "Closed on Sunday"
Nine. "Wash Us in the Blood"
Chapter Notes
Bibliography
Index
