SPIRITUALS A NATIONAL TREASURE
As human beings one of the most powerful emotions we have is our deep-rooted yearning to have our voice heard and acknowledged. It was no different for the African slaves first arriving in the Colonies in 1619 introducing slavery to … Read More
I am really excited to share with you my passion for preserving a vital part of American history and cultural heritage that isn’t talked about very much – the slaves and the spirituals. The slaves, my beloved ancestors, are my … Read More
I have asked myself the question a million times: What can I do or what can I say that will loose the chains of bondage we are still in today that keeps us from knowing the awe inspiring African people … Read More
For my culture, my ancestors were slaves in America and the spirituals the slaves created hold within them our African-American oral history and our cultural heritage. What makes the spirituals different from all the other musical art forms, is in … Read More
Now, y’all know I’m gonna tell you a story about our ancestors. It is with gratitude and a pride so deep in our ancestors who endured so much and in spite of their human condition, made a way out of … Read More
After years of performances dedicated to honoring America’s multi-cultural heritage, focusing on my own cultural perspective of our slave brothers and sisters and the original music they created on American soil, we call African American spirituals, I felt I wasn’t … Read More
America’s cultural heritage and musical arts are deeply rooted and connected to the black spirituals which were created in the cotton fields of the Old South by slaves. During slavery the spirituals helped the slaves secretly communicate routes on the … Read More
The spirituals have been part of my life as far back as I can remember. I always loved the way the spirituals made me feel. They gave me hope and comfort, they still do today. I remember when I was … Read More
In the spirit of history remembered, it is hard to believe that it was 50 years ago, that brave Americans of all races and religions marched in Selma, AL for the civil rights of all Americans. The marchers, the freedom … Read More
What I have learned as a storyteller/musician is the gift of music created from within the human soul can enhance, change and transform the life of the listener. Music heals, it creates a space for joy and fulfillment and has … Read More