There are many quotes Dr. King made over his lifetime that can be read, learned from, and appreciated. For this year’s celebration I am chosing one that perhaps is not as well known, or at least not as well presented, yet is just as profound:
“Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world.”
Of course, we know Dr. King was a minister, so his first priority is not a surprise. And many would agree, including me. But what about music? Well music of all the arts, is the closest to the ideal melting pot. It does not require translation, nor interpretation. Its appeal is immediate and intuitive and it always brings people together.
And there is another layer of meaning in this quote. The African-American community redefined popular music in the 20th century. From Ragtime, to Jazz, Blues, Gospel, R&B, Soul, Rock N’ Roll, and now Hip-Hop, it is impossible to imagine the last 100 years of contemporary music without the contributions of African-American artists. Of course, there have been many amazing artists, from many communities, that have made great music. I am not taking anything away from their contributions. But all of these diverse artists have said, almost to a man and a woman, this is where the roots are.
In closing I am including one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard, People Get Ready, by Curtis Mayfield, and The Impressions, that embodies so perfectly both the spiritual and artistic dimensions of life, that Dr. King referred to in his quote.