Will.i.am Critiques ICE in His Thought-Provoking Track ‘East L.A’

## Black Eyed Peas’ Evolving Sound

Before Fergie’s addition to the group, Black Eyed Peas was known for their sincere, socially conscious hip-hop, highlighted by tracks like “Positivity.” Their famous breakthrough song, “Where Is the Love?,” even included critical lines about societal issues. Now, as they navigate the post-Fergie landscape, Will.i.am has embraced more topical themes again through the song “East L.A.,” collaborating with fellow group member Taboo to honor a community facing challenges from ICE.

### A Community Under Siege

In “East L.A.,” Will.i.am makes his identity clear when he raps, “I’m a Black-xicano, so this is for La Raza.” The song notably samples Santana’s well-known track “Maria Maria.” Will describes the song as a response to the current state of the world rather than an effort to replicate past successes.

“It’s response music,” he explains. Will has roots in a predominantly Mexican-American neighborhood and acknowledges his upbringing has influenced his perspective. “We’re responding to what we feel out in the world,” he affirms.

### Cherishing Their Roots

Taboo emphasizes their intention to create a tribute to their childhood and the voices they continue to uplift. Their artistic choices resonate deeply with their experiences as Eastsiders.

Wyclef Jean, who co-wrote “Maria Maria,” expressed his support for the new single and its accompanying video, which features footage from an anti-ICE protest at Los Angeles City Hall. Will appreciates Wyclef’s understanding of their message, as he too has knowledge of migration struggles. His comments also evoke the sentiments of Santana’s 1999 song “Migra,” which critiques immigration enforcement.

### A Call for Change

Will’s passion is palpable, especially concerning the case of George Retes, a military veteran wrongfully detained during an immigration raid. “Protecting our borders is essential,” he states, yet he criticizes current enforcement methods. He believes that a civilized nation should not resort to aggressive tactics that target marginalized communities.

He advocates for the dignity of undocumented residents, noting their hard work and aspirations for citizenship. “They work two to three jobs,” he points out. “Why not celebrate them and make them citizens?”

### Thoughts on AI in Music

On the tech front, Will.i.am is a proponent of AI in music creation and has invested in AI platforms like Udio. While some artists face backlash over AI-generated projects, he notes that Black Eyed Peas introduced an AI “member” named Vida without any controversy. “It’s an extension of us,” he remarks.

However, he acknowledges the potential risks associated with generative AI, particularly regarding job security in the music industry. “We’re not full AI yet,” he cautions, stressing the importance of regulations to protect human roles in creativity.

What do you think about the evolving role of AI in the music industry?