Doug Locke Tackles Police Brutality and Racism in “Why?”
Doug Locke, the son of celebrated Texas Civil Rights activist and leader Gene Locke who was one of the first black students at University of Houston in 1965 after the school desegregated in 1963, uses his music as his platform to spread his advocacy for Black and LGBTQ (A community he is a member of) rights.
While “Why” (from Doug Locke’s two-song EP Lunar II), carries a serious and grievous subject matter, his preceding release Lunar I takes on a lighter and breezier tone, showcasing Doug’s versatility as an artist.
Lunar I was highlighted by its lead off single “Black Travolta”. Anchored by the unmistakable bass hook from The Bee Gees’ disco classic “Stayin’ Alive”, “Black Travolta” is a swank-heavy, cheeky track that oozes sexuality and swagger. Watch the music video HERE.
“Why?” shines a harsh spotlight on racism in America today. A somber wake-up call and call to action of sorts for Doug Locke fans to understand the realization of today’s cultural landscape. “With the music video for “Why” (WATCH HERE) I wanted to shine a light on one of my worst nightmares as a Black man in America,” Locke explained.
Filmed during the pandemic with safeguards in place, the video depicts the panic and apprehension that fills POC and especially Black men and women with palpable fear and dread. Some victims have been killed. “I made this music video in loving memory of them, and to honor them,” Locke says solemnly. “Their lives mattered and they will never be forgotten. You see, we Black people know that it can happen to any of us, no one is immune. No amount of wealth, fame or education (or any other factors) can protect you from blind hate or subconscious bias. This is a crying shame.”
In the entertainment business over ten years ago, Locke got his start as an actor playing a young Jimi Hendrix in the short film A Technicolor Dream. Having appeared in countless other TV shows and films including Jane The Virgin, Bones, House MD, and in the Reese Witherspoon film Home Again, he augmented his onscreen credits with a healthy music career. Among the many press lauds he has received include The Huffington Post, AFROPUNK, OUT, Idolator, GLAAD, Logo’s NewNowNext, PopMatters, and American Songwriter.
The Fusion Press
