"Wiggy" by Gil Scott-Heron is a satirical commentary on societal expectations and standards of beauty, specifically focusing on the use of wigs by Black women. The song highlights the pressure faced by Black women to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards and the absurdity of these expectations. The lyrics describe a character named Jemima, who despite having a 1920s mindset, still succumbs to the influence of wearing a wig. The term "Wiggy" represents the artificiality and lack of authenticity that comes with the act of wearing wigs. The song suggests that by wearing wigs, Black women are perpetuating a false image and becoming an imitation of someone else. Scott-Heron draws attention to the various types of wigs, from gold and blonde to blood-red and blue, emphasizing their artificiality. He criticizes the notion that wearing wigs is an attempt to imitate and conform to beauty standards that are not natural to Black women. The lyrics also touch upon the societal pressure for African American women to chemically straighten their hair, referred to as "chemicalize your nappy top." Scott-Heron questions the need for Black women to alter their natural hair, implying that they should embrace and celebrate their unique and beautiful "fuzzy heads." The song concludes with a plea for acceptance and appreciation of natural Afro-textured hair. Scott-Heron emphasizes that society should embrace the "cotton-soft, not woolward lead" texture of Black hair and celebrate the beauty of natural hairstyles, rather than conforming to artificial standards. Overall, "Wiggy" serves as a critique of societal beauty standards and the pressure faced by Black women to conform. It encourages self-acceptance and challenges the notion that Black women must conform to Eurocentric beauty ideals.
