I just want to shed light, illuminate and turn the spotlight over to all of the black people who have been being futuristic and innovative since instruments were plugged into a wall. With computers, machines, and music, black people have been contributing to that a great deal for a long time.

In this quote, Kelela, an American singer and songwriter, emphasizes the significant and often overlooked contributions of Black people to the fields of technology, music, and innovation. She expresses a desire to "shed light" on the historical role that Black individuals have played in the development of computers, machines, and music. Kelela aims to bring attention to the futuristic and innovative work that has long been a part of Black culture, particularly in areas where their contributions have been overshadowed or erased from mainstream narratives.

Kelela's words also highlight the role of Black artists and creators in shaping technological and musical landscapes. She suggests that, from the time when instruments were plugged into a wall (referring to the early days of electronic music and technology), Black people have been at the forefront of innovation. The quote calls attention to the fact that many of the tools and genres that are considered cutting-edge or futuristic today were influenced by Black creators, whether through music, technology, or cultural contributions.

The mention of computers and machines points to the long history of Black involvement in technological development. From pioneers like George Washington Carver, who advanced agricultural machines, to figures in the electronic music and tech industries, Black innovators have shaped many of the technologies we use today. Kelela is highlighting that these contributions often go unnoticed in traditional histories of innovation and technology, and her quote serves as a call to recognize and celebrate these achievements.

Ultimately, Kelela’s statement serves as a celebration of Black creativity and innovation, urging people to acknowledge the historical and ongoing contributions of Black individuals in shaping the future of technology and music. By shining a spotlight on these accomplishments, Kelela seeks to empower and uplift those who have been pioneers in these fields, reminding us that innovation has always been a part of Black culture.