Daye Jack has a distinct sound, but a common message that needs to be heard. Initially, listening to the Song it seems to be about love…but prepared to be educated. It is rare for mainstream and some underground music artists to be so direct in making songs on topics like police brutality. The idea often is that “sex sells,” but awareness changes lives and Daye is certainly on the right path to doing that in his song “Hands Up…” and he may not even realize it.

This is an issue that everyone can relate to, some on a larger scale than others. He not only proves his artistic ability in the song, but his level of consciousness about what is going on in the world even at a Young age. How often do we hear 19 to 20 year old rappers talking about some of the things Daye reflects on in one song? He not only focuses on the issue of police brutality at hand, but the aftermath when someone’s life is taken in the process. “Maybe the kid you refer to as a thug is just somebody else’s baby,” emphasizing the importance of citizens and the news media sympathizing with the mothers who have to bury their sons because they appear to be thugs.

The chorus of the song is powerful on its own and sums the overall message of “Hands Up” in one verse. “Living with my head down, my hands up, no no don’t shoot,” says so much. This chorus could be voice for those who want to protest police brutality, but aren’t quite sure how to find the words. If not, those who live their lives trying to improve the many flaws of our law system may find encouragement and appreciate this song. Daye manages to get his message across effectively without addressing race outside of one “Black lives matter” reference. It is evident in this song that his concern is deeper than just race; but it is about promoting non-violence.

Despite his lighter tone of voice, you can definitely feel the sense of concern and urgency he has. He is the hope we need to make sure that this generation and those who follow have some idea about the things that are going on in today’s society and they can get a glimpse of that listening to Daye. His style of delivering music will make a young person want to really listen and gain something from what he’s saying. The unique beat with a smooth combination of acoustics and other sounds will attract listeners of all ages, young and old.

“Hands up don’t shoot” is a powerful saying used in protests for police brutality nationwide, but Daye brings a new vibe to this saying. He’s shown us that young people are aware, advocating in the best way they know how, and in his case it’s through his musical talent. Daye Jack is proof that there is still power in meaningful music.