The Sound of Music

"Music is well said to be the speech of angels."-Thomas Carlyle


If this is the case, Heaven just got three more.  Since the time of the slave trade, music has been an inspiration in the black community.  Rhythmic melodies soothed the soul, and calmed the heart delivering messages of determination, strength, faith, and hope during a time of struggle and strife.  The words in songs like "Wade in the Water" and "The Drinking Gourd" narrated secret messages  of escape and deliverance from slavery in the Deep South.  These songs can still be heard today, and carry the same resonance.  And were songs both heard and sung by many African American music legends.


Etta James, Don Cornelius, and Whitney Houston all lived through music, sharing it with the world, in much the same way as their ancestors.  To have lost them all, so close together, and two ironically in the month of February, will have a profound effect on music history, and black history just the same.  These legends may have passed on, but will live forever, through the sound of music.


Etta James (January 25, 1938-January 20, 2012)-Recognized mostly in the genres of blues, soul, gospel, and jazz, Etta James epitomized legendary.  Her smashing 1960 hit "At Last" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.  Singers Beyonce, Christina Aguilera, Stevie Nicks, Aretha Franklin, and many others have covered this song calling her a true inspiration to classic blues.  Her music has surpassed the test of time encouraging talented artists generations over, to follow their dreams. 


Don Cornelius (September 27, 1936-February 1, 2012)-Two words describe what brought Don Cornelius music fame: Soul Train!  Recognizing in the late 60s that there was no television venue for soul music, Don help to create, produce, and host Soul Train, which aired in syndication in 1971.  He helped bring fame to music greats such as James Brown and The Jackson 5, and became a Saturday morning staple for the young and old in the black community.  With the words many of us heard so often over the years, Don Cornelius, we wish you peace, love, and soul.


Whitney Houston (August 9, 1963-February 11, 2012)-Whitney Houston's recent death rocked many the world over, a day before the Grammy's.  An award she's won many times over, she was set to attend this year's ceremony.  Given the out-pouring of love, and the heart-felt tribute she received, it's safe to say her music is cemented in history and will continue to be motivation and instill hope in future generations.  Her iconic rendition of Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You" made her legendary, and she became a role model for young women in the music industry.  Singers Brandy Norwood, Jennifer Hudson, Cece Winans, Mariah Carey, Kelly Clarkson, and Robin Thicke (to name a few on the never-ending list) all credit Whitney for influencing their careers.  Her music was food for the soul, even now as many grieve through her passing. Her message, like that of her ancestors, will always be a lesson in  hope, striving for greatness, and the guidance of love.


We've learned of the power of music throughout black history.  It sustains, heals, fights, praises, and delivers.  I learned of the profound impact of music at an early age, as many children should.  It has the power to do good, and bring people together.  It has been a bridge between black history and American history, helping to shape the country we live in today, and it's future.