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Childish Gambino - This Is America

Music video

Childish Gambino's "This Is America" is a powerful music video that addresses pressing social issues in the United States. Released in 2018, it was directed by Hiro Murai and features a blend of African dance styles, including the Ghanaian Azonto and South African Gwara Gwara. The video is known for its graphic content, including scenes of gun violence reminiscent of the 2015 Charleston shooting. These visuals serve as a commentary on systemic racism, police brutality, and the normalization of violence in American society. The video juxtaposes vibrant dance sequences with disturbing images of violence, highlighting how society often overlooks or trivializes the struggles faced by black communities. The use of technology, such as filming techniques, enhances the visual impact, though LIDAR technology is not specifically mentioned in its production. "This Is America" has sparked significant political conversation and received widespread acclaim, winning several Grammy Awards. It remains a landmark work in socially conscious art, engaging viewers and prompting reflection on racial inequality and violence in America.