I want hip-hop to empower women: Raxstar

Hip-hop artists have often been accused of objectifying, demeaning, and promoting violence and sexual abuse against women. They have also been found guilty of colourism — the praise of 'light-skinned hoes' and the denigration of darker-skinned women. However, UK-based rapper Raxstar is an exception. The Luton singer is a known figure in the desi hip-hop scene and a regular feature on MTV's Spoken Word (2016 and 2017). After collaborating with Indian rapper Badshah on the song 'Bandook', he's back with another anthem on women empowerment called 'Balwant'. We caught up with the 33-year-old artist to discuss why the voice of hip-hop does not have to be limited to negative female stereotypes.

Why use music as a catalyst for empowering women?

The song Bandook touched upon partner violence and domestic abuse. Women usually get the raw end of the deal in relationships, especially emotionally. Some relationships break them, and make them question their self-worth. I want to tell them that they don't have to accept a situation as it is. They can walk out without questioning their choices. Women need outlets to share their stories. If my music can shed light on the matter, then why shouldn't I rap about it? Also, I try not to objectify women in my music videos.

Do you draw on personal experience while writing your lyrics?

I want to uplift women with my lyrics as opposed to denigrating them. I live to tell the truth. I have interacted with countless women, including those in my family, and I draw inspiration from their lives. I am interested in getting to know what women really feel. I want to know how they would react to a situation. While my lyrics aren't necessarily based on a personal experience, it stems from my interactions with women. My lyrics also serve as a personal critique of patriarchy.

Have women reacted positively to your music?

They have! I've had women leave comments on my music videos on Youtube saying, "Thank you for not depicting women as mere sex symbols", or "Thank you for not showcasing women as the weaker sex". It feels good to know that women are reacting positively to rap songs. I think they expect rappers to pen down misogynistic lyrics, so they are pleasantly surprised when they hear my music. I wasn't going to drop the b-word all day long because it does impact women.

Why do you think there is a need to empower women more than ever now?

I think women are constantly told what to do, what to wear, and how to present themselves. They don't need to feel like they're being objectified all the time. With crimes against women on the rise, men need to join the fight for their rights. I do my bit through music. If you trace the origins of hip-hop, it basically served as a platform to tell the community about social problems that existed at the time. Hip-hop loves women. But most of the time, it's in all the wrong ways, for all the wrong reasons.

Your new song 'Balwant' is dedicated to the 'free-spirited woman'? Who is the free-spirited woman?

The song is a tribute to liberated women who do not depend on men to fulfill their needs. Women don't need men to validate their existence. Ladies, you are enough for yourself. The lyrics goes something like this:
"She don't want to dance with you, she don't want to drink

Fall back bro, let her do her thing

If you give your number she'll put it in the bin

Deleted and blocked for the DM that you sent..."