A collective of African, Caribbean and American musicians has just released the album Black Lives, from generation to generation, whose clear words denounce the endless racist excesses against the black community in the world. They are 25 artists to howl their indignation. American bassist Reggie Washington, Malian pianist Cheick Tidiane Seck and Guadeloupean drummer Sonny Troupé are our guests for an essential radio examination of conscience.
Since the assassination of George Floyd on May 25, 2020 in Minneapolis in the United States, protest movements against police abuse have multiplied across the planet. The slogan “Black Lives Matter” resonates with force and now arouses civic engagement. Claiming equality and justice has always mobilized minds and encouraged creators to concoct militant works. The Afro-planetary community no longer intends to be silent and suffer. Following the example of the elders who, at the risk of their lives, expressed their anger and their suffering, voices are being raised today to counter authoritarian and intolerant arguments. Whether they are 25 like saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins or 80 like his counterpart Oliver Lake, the point is the same: there is an urgent need to inform, educate, provide keys to understanding so that African universality and its riches are no longer despised and caricatured.
Each title of the album Black Lives, from generation to generation, directed by producer Stefany Calembert, is a call for unity and harmony. The tone of each instrumentalist may be different but the message is the same: Let’s stop hunkering down, let’s be proud, let’s honor our heroes and give a positive reading of our ancestral social and cultural contribution. For 400 years, the victimized image of the black man penalizes his real place in the concert of nations. However, there is no shortage of icons… Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Nina Simone, Cheick Anta Diop, Édouard Glissant, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, Kendrick Lamar, Marcus Garvey, Bob Marley, and so many others have proven that the strength of convictions sheds light on reflection and influences the certainties of the self-proclaimed “holders of the truth”.
Bringing together Beninese, Togolese, South African, Guadeloupean, Martinican, American and Malian virtuosos is a real challenge but a useful ambition. Vibrating to these heady rhythms and benevolent harmonies is also an opportunity to open our ears and indulge in the pleasure of curious and enriching discovery. Let’s give our generosity of heart a chance and, without prejudice, let us be convinced!
► The website of Jammin’Colors
► The video: Cheick Tidiane Seck “Sanga Bo”.