D’Angelo & The Vanguard
Questlove challenged the music industry to release more protest music — and D’Angelo answered his call. “Black Messiah” blew my mind – actually, I feel as though it was originally made even before any of us were born — D’Angelo’s an old soul. Even though there are videos of him performing it as early as two years ago, “Charade” is a track that could’ve been written last month. With lyrics like “All we wanted was a chance to talk/’Stead we only got outlined in chalk/Feet have bled a million miles we’ve walked/Revealing at the end of the day, the charade,” D’Angelo is laying bare how many of us feel with what’s happening around us these days. BTW — for folks complaining about not being able to understand him, stop multi-tasking and really listen. This album is perfect if you throw on a pair of headphones.
Let me end this before I jump into a music rabbit hole. But, before I get out of here, may I recommend “Wake Up,” a 2010 release courtesy of John Legend and The Roots. Some classic protest songs given an updated, but respectful, treatment. This is a must have for any music collection.
As I said at the top of this post, I know I’m missing some great songs that are out there. Please let all of us know which ones have been speaking to, and for, you through this confusing time.
Source: Kristen from Black Girl Nerds