ON TWITTER

#BEYONCE

The unexpected drop of a new song by Beyoncé on Saturday was a pleasant surprise for fans. The song, Black Parade, dropped as Juneteenth celebrations continued around the US.

@Projoe54234323 pondered: “Am still trying to figure out how this will bring about the change we need... I guess it’s something to dance to, and give blk people some pride. Is this going to stop the injustice?”

@butterdaboi had no doubts: “Her music and message uplifts people when they are exhausted and angry and disillusioned. It’s a publicity stunt, of course, but there’s also genuine outreach; and if it makes people who are on the verge of collapse under the weight of the world keep fighting, then its valuable.”

@Vuvuyonce replied: “Publicity stunt? All the proceeds of the song are going to black-owned businesses.”

@Projoe54234323 reckoned: “This generation rely on singers, rappers, actors and athletes to bring about the change we need. Are these the smartest ppl we got? No wonder we keep protesting every year, no clear objective.”

@E_teezey1286 pointed out: “Black entertainers have always been at the forefront. What do you think Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, Muhammad Ali, etc were doing during the civil rights era?”

Cynical @Bernice77434175 commented: “I bet not one black person will receive any funding for anything. Crooks & hypocrites!”

#TOMPETTY

The family of Tom Petty has issued a formal cease and desist letter to the Trump campaign over its use of his song I Won’t Back Down at a rally in Tulsa. Petty’s estate said: “Tom Petty would never want a song of his used for a campaign of hate.”

@Daynaziegner agreed: “I’d never associate the best writer and rocker with Trump. Trump steals everything and feels entitled to do so. Sue him and all proceeds to #BLM. We miss you TP!”

@magilljs added: “They should offer Trump ‘Zombie Zoo’ from the same album! Seems more fitting!”

@Debbiemayf was in no doubt: “Tom hated Trump! As does his family! Bravo.”

@Anatya77 concurred: “True fans know the band will never be on same page as the bigotry, hate and racism that is flagrant in Trump administration!”