Genre-defying, award-winning artist and disability advocate Lachi has released a soul-stirring acoustic version of her track Diseducation, part of her Mad Different series. Originally co-created with apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas, this stripped-back rendition transforms the track into an intimate blend of piano and vocals, delivering a powerful message of independence and joy.
“This song is a declaration: ‘If you’re here to underestimate me, let me dis-educate you on that notion!’” Lachi asserts. Rejecting outdated views of disability as tragedy, she proclaims, “Ableism only gets in the way of what’s already perfect.” With its joyous scatting and lyrical defiance, Diseducation dismantles the “charity model” of disability, celebrating autonomy and confidence.
Produced at Amazon Music Studios with support from Pop Culture Collaborative and WAVE Financial, the project boasts a stellar creative team. Directed by Caroline Mariko Stucky, the performance video features Lachi on vocals and piano, Mercedes Lysaker on cello, Lisette Santiago on bongos, Jayla Chee on bass, and Indi Robinson performing artistic sign language. Disability rights leader Tiffany Yu delivers a poignant audio-description introduction.
With its raw, acoustic feel and Lachi’s fierce advocacy, Diseducation stands as a vibrant anthem against ableism, showcasing the power of music to redefine narratives.
