Cardi B - Bodak Yellow - 2017
Today, we're diving into the world of modern rap with a focus on Cardi B's groundbreaking single, Bodak Yellow, released in 2017. This track not only catapulted Cardi B into stardom but also made a significant impact on the music industry and culture. We'll explore the song's background, its significance, and the artist behind the hit.
Introduction
Bodak Yellow is a song by American rapper Cardi B. Released by Atlantic Records as her debut single on June 16, 2017, from her debut studio album, Invasion of Privacy, the song was a massive commercial success. It reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Cardi B the second female rapper to top the chart with a solo output, following Lauryn Hill in 1998. The song's title and flow are inspired by Kodak Black, a Florida-based rapper, and his 2014 song "No Flockin'."
Background and Release
The song's aggressive lyrics and beat are indicative of Cardi B's personality and her past struggles before becoming a celebrity. Cardi B, born Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar on October 11, 1992, in New York City, was a former stripper who became famous through Instagram and reality TV before turning her focus to music. "Bodak Yellow" is seen as her anthem of empowerment and her arrival on the music scene.
Significance
"Bodak Yellow" is significant not only for its chart success but also for its cultural impact. It has been praised for its empowering message, particularly for women and minorities. The song's popularity helped Cardi B break several records and has been credited with changing the landscape of hip-hop, bringing female rap to the forefront of the music industry.
Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics of "Bodak Yellow" touch on themes of wealth, success, and self-empowerment. Cardi B's delivery of the lines showcases her confidence and resilience, resonating with many who have faced similar battles for recognition and success.
Music Video
The music video for "Bodak Yellow," directed by Picture Perfect, was released in June 2017. It features Cardi B in various luxurious settings, including a desert scene with camels, highlighting the song's themes of success and opulence.
Critical Reception
"Bodak Yellow" received widespread acclaim from music critics, who praised its catchy beat, aggressive lyrics, and Cardi B's charismatic delivery. It has been included in several year-end and decade-end lists of the best songs.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What inspired the title "Bodak Yellow"? (Kodak Black's song "No Flockin'") (!Cardi B's favorite color) (!A brand of shoes Cardi mentions in the song) (!A phrase from her childhood)
Which record label released "Bodak Yellow"? (Atlantic Records) (!Capitol Records) (!Interscope Records) (!Roc Nation)
In what year was "Bodak Yellow" released? (2017) (!2016) (!2018) (!2015)
How did "Bodak Yellow" perform on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart? (It reached number one) (!It was in the top 10 but did not reach number one) (!It reached the top 20) (!It did not chart)
What themes does "Bodak Yellow" touch on? (Wealth, success, and self-empowerment) (!Love and relationships) (!Political commentary) (!Friendship and loyalty)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
What is Cardi B's real name? (Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar) (!Belinda Carlisle) (!Cardigan Backyardigan) (!Bella Cardina)
Before becoming a rapper, what was Cardi B's profession? (Stripper) (!Actress) (!Teacher) (!Social worker)
On which social media platform did Cardi B initially gain fame? (Instagram) (!Twitter) (!Facebook) (!YouTube)
From which city is Cardi B? (New York City) (!Los Angeles) (!Miami) (!Atlanta)
Which TV show did Cardi B appear on before her music career took off? (Love & Hip Hop: New York) (!The Real Housewives of Atlanta) (!Keeping Up with the Kardashians) (!Jersey Shore)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What does Cardi B claim she does not have to do anymore thanks to her success in "Bodak Yellow"? (Dance) (!Study) (!Work a 9 to 5 job) (!Take the subway)
What does Cardi B use to symbolize her financial success in the song? (Red bottom shoes) (!Gold chains) (!Designer bags) (!Private jets)
How does Cardi B describe her move from poverty to wealth? (From the bottom to the top) (!From rags to riches) (!Climbing the ladder) (!Breaking the ceiling)
What does Cardi B mention buying with her newfound wealth? (Fixed teeth) (!A mansion) (!A sports car) (!A yacht)
What attitude does Cardi B convey throughout "Bodak Yellow"? (Confidence and self-empowerment) (!Doubt and fear) (!Nostalgia for the past) (!Desire for love)
Memory
| Cardi B's real name | Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar |
| Year "Bodak Yellow" was released | 2017 |
| Cardi B's profession before music | Stripper |
| Main theme of "Bodak Yellow" | Self-empowerment |
| City Cardi B is from | New York City |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Explore other songs by Cardi B: Listen to at least two other tracks from her album Invasion of Privacy and note how they compare to "Bodak Yellow" in terms of themes and style.
- Create a timeline of Cardi B's career: From her beginnings to her breakthrough with "Bodak Yellow" and beyond.
- Design a poster for "Bodak Yellow": Include key lyrics and symbols that represent the song's themes.
Standard
- Write an essay on the impact of "Bodak Yellow" on female rappers in the hip-hop industry.
- Analyze the lyrics of "Bodak Yellow": Discuss how Cardi B uses language to convey her message of empowerment.
- Create a presentation on the significance of Cardi B's "Bodak Yellow" in music history.
Difficult
- Compare "Bodak Yellow" to Kodak Black's "No Flockin'": Discuss the influence and differences in flow, themes, and overall impact.
- Conduct a survey on the impact of "Bodak Yellow" on listeners' perceptions of success and self-worth.
- Organize a debate on the role of social media in Cardi B's success. Use "Bodak Yellow" as a case study.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the cultural significance of "Bodak Yellow" and its impact on Cardi B's career.
- Analyze how "Bodak Yellow" reflects broader trends in the music industry, especially regarding female empowerment.
- Explain the importance of social media in shaping the careers of modern artists like Cardi B.
- Evaluate the role of visual elements (e.g., music videos) in the success of songs like "Bodak Yellow."
- Discuss the influence of artists' backgrounds on their music, using Cardi B as an example.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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