“Black Gold” (2012)

When writing this inspiring and inspirational history lesson, Esperanza Spalding “wanted to create something that spoke to young boys.” She succeeded, and crafted a song that sings not only to boys, but also to girls, women and men, regardless of age, gender, or any other grouping.

Riches and Pride

Released to coincide with Black History Month in 2012, “Black Gold” focuses on the pre-slavery heritage of African-Americans. In doing so, it urges listeners to transcend any resentment, bitterness, or even shame. Instead, it encourages them to be proud of their heritage – a rich heritage of “Black Gold.”

Gold Record

That Esperanza could do the above, all through a listenable, danceable, and very enjoyable song, ensures that this is a golden recording for posterity. _{(Image source)}

Esperanza Spalding

Esperanza Spalding is a US jazz bassist and singer. As a child, she was a musical prodigy; at the age of 5, she performed with the Chamber Music Society of Oregon.

During her childhood and youth, Esperanza essentially taught herself to play a variety musical instruments. She then went on to study at Portland State University and Berklee College of Music.

Practice Made Perfect

By 2017, she had joined the faculty of Harvard University, where she is a Professor of the Practice of Music.

Esperanza has released 7 solo albums, as well as numerous music videos. She has won 4 Grammy Awards.

In 2011, she was named “Jazz Artist of the Year” by the Boston Music Awards. _{(Image source)}

Hold your head as high as you can

High enough to see who you are, little man

Life sometimes is cold and cruel

Baby, no one else will tell you, so remember that

You are Black Gold, Black Gold

You are Black Gold

Now, maybe no one else has told you so

But you're golden, baby

Black Gold with a diamond soul

Think of all the strength you have in you

From the blood you carry within you

Ancient men, powerful men

Built us a civilization

They'll be folks hell-bent on putting you down

Don't get burned

Not necessarily everyone will know your worth

Think of all the strength you have in you

From the blood you carry within you

Ancient men, powerful men

Built us a civilization

Think of all the strength you have in you

Powerful, powerful men

Built us a civilization

Hold your head as high as you can

High enough to see who you are, little man

Life sometimes is cold and cruel

Baby, no one else will tell you, so remember that

You are Black Gold, Black Gold

You are Black Gold

There'll be folks hell-bent on putting you down

Don't get burned

Not necessarily everyone will know your worth

Think of all the strength you have in you

From the blood you carry within you

Ancient men, powerful men

Built us a civilization

Think of all the strength you have in you

Powerful, powerful men

Built us a civilization

Hold your head as high as you can

High enough to see who you are, little man

Life sometimes is cold and cruel

Baby, no one else will tell you, so remember that

You are Black Gold, Black Gold

You are Black Gold

Think of all the strength you have in you

From the blood you carry within you

Ancient men, powerful men

Built us a civilization

All the strength
All the blood that you carry
Ancient men
Powerful men
In you
Built us a civilization
Hold your head as high as you can
High enough to see who you are, little man
Life sometimes is cold and cruel
Baby, no one else will tell you, so remember that
You are Black Gold, Black Gold, You are Black Gold
   [4x]
Hold your head as high as you can
High enough to see who you are, little man
Life sometimes is cold and cruel
Baby, no one else will tell you, so remember that
You are Black Gold
You are Black Gold, You are
Hold your head up
Don't give up
You are Black Gold
You are, You are Black Gold
Black Gold, Black Gold, Black Gold
  _{(Image source)} _{Lyrics by Esperanza Spalding, courtesy of – AZLyrics.com

Reference – Wikipedia

Reference – Wikipedia

Reference – NPR.org

Into your ears … through 5 channels

The various posts are categorized into 5 channels _{(Right-Click to see details)}

         1 – “Music to Your Ears” (MTYE)

         2 – “Cover Versions”

         3 – “Honor Roll”

         4 – “Documentaries”

         5 – “Mock’n’Roll”

More “Music to Your Ears” ...

          Previous posts in this series – "MTYE posts 1–20"

          Previous posts in this series – "MTYE posts 21–40"

Links to my other series ...}

Lou Reed – "Anthology of Memorable Lyrics, Part 1"
Lou Reed – "Anthology of Memorable Lyrics, Part 2"