Illustrated by Keisha Okafor
Sleeping Bear Press, 2023
ISBN: 978-1534112704
40 pages
A Song So Black, So Proud!
The story of an anthem of the civil rights movement - as told by the anthem itself, “Say it Loud - I’m black and I’m proud”
Written on a napkin and released just months after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the song "Say It Loud (I'm Black and I'm Proud)" became an anthem and rallying cry for the civil rights movement, as well as a celebration of Black culture and community. The song was penned in 1968 by singer James Brown in response to the rising racial tensions throughout the United States.
Now, in first-person lyrical text, the iconic song speaks for itself, narrating the elements and moments that inspired its creation. The song continues to inspire and resonate today. It's been covered by artists like Usher and anchored Spotify's Black Lives Matter playlist. Readers of all ages will be encouraged to lift their own voices in a celebration of Black pride and identity.
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Reviews
“Infused with energy and life, text and art explain that the song is a testament to Black history and pride. Owens and Okafor celebrate protest and activism.”