Activists: Mysonne Linen

Mysonne “The General” is an independent hip-hop artist and criminal justice reform advocate from the Bronx, New York. His Black History Month playlist—which features selections from Nipsey Hussle, KRS-One, and Lauryn Hill—is thick with anthems of black consciousness, but there are two in particular that stand out for the artist. “The songs that I believe connect this list the most are [Public Enemy’s] ‘Fight the Power’ and [Scarface feat. 2Pac’s] ‘Smile,’” Mysonne tells Apple Music. “‘Fight the Power’ is what signifies my purpose and passion in this movement. I remember hearing this song as a boy and being motivated to join the fight. This song was a great part of my evolution into consciousness. ‘Smile’ is so crucial not only to this list but to my mind state in general. This song is so introspective, describing [feelings] those of us in the ghetto know so well.”