We all know that spirituals were our ancestors’ methods of communication, celebration, and liberation. Music has always been a part of our DNA. But did you know music has always been tied to our justice movements?
In the sultry air of New Orleans in the late 1910s, the first jazz notes spilled onto the stones of Congo Square. Rhythm and blues had given Black musicians some joy in the midst of strife, but with its spread came a new awareness of racial injustice in the U.S.
The “godfather of soul,” James Brown, penned "Say It Loud—I'm Black and I'm Proud" to get Black communities in the Los Angeles area to fight for freedom instead of each other. The song‘s raw power created a new genre of music: funk. “Say It Loud” became a battle cry, instilling Black pride and inspiring us to continue fighting for our freedoms.
The 1960s saw sit-ins, protests, riots, and homophobia, particularly against Black queer spaces. In underground safe spaces, disco was born. It countered the political darkness and turmoil of the time. It embodied self-expression, community, and gave people a haven.
Music and artistry have always been an outlet for our community. We've created many genres of music to cope, combat, and congregate to fight for our freedoms. It's always been our way and will continue to be so in our (near) future.