I started the Black History Project in 2020. Without thinking about the impact it would have on me and maybe you. Yet, the effect of the research has been indescribable. At best, I would describe it as causing “my heart to bleed.”
The research was overwhelming. It was divided among musicians who offered their brilliants. These brilliants were only cheapened through emotional, professional, and racial treatment.
Musicians who dared to show and offer their talents to society would face discouragement by the same society. They were often robbed of their soul’s investment into the music they loved. Black Musicians and their love of music played a crucial role. Some of the genres would not exist without the determination of Black Musicians.
Dorsey founded the first black gospel music publishing company, Dorsey House of Music. Dorsey combined the rhythms from jazz and the blues. This combination marked the beginning of Gospel Music, which was not accepted by the Black Church.
Black musicians do not enjoy it, but they take the ridicule. They are taunted and teased. Watching with eyes of disbelief. They see how their music style and ability to play any instrument downplayed disbelief.
The more seasoned musician suffered through enduring jealousy from the white world of music. They accepted but did not enjoy it. They were entertained but not allowed to stay. Maybe published but cheated.
A musician’s soul and spirit become a significant part of who they are. I’m glad they encouraged and pushed themselves to go beyond the limits and rise above society’s restrictions.
Older musicians did not get their recognition until after they passed. (This is why I give my love and tell people I love them while they are alive.)
Yet, I found a sense of pride, appreciation, love, and celebration in the fact that they never gave up. Music integrates with the soul and spirit of a musician, becoming a significant part of who they are. I am glad they encouraged and pushed themselves to go beyond the limits and rise above society’s restrictions.
In closing, I’m thankful for the Black Musicians who were and are lovers of music. Without them, we would be less than we are today. I love music and always will. Music is one of the ways The GREAT I AM allows peace to enter the human spirit. And harmony to rest in the human heart.
Prodigies in Black Music Evolution
- Stevie Wonder,
- Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart,
- Jon Batiste,
- Alicia Gugello Cook (Alicia Keys),
- Hazel Scott,
- and many more!
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