This photo deserves a Pulitzer Prize.
Not only does it represent our current state of politics but it mirrors many photos of past which confirm the ugly truth about progress…
It must be fought for by every generation.
It can take a lot to get me to come outside these days… but Jesse Collins may be one of the few who can.
I had a wonderful experience working with him and his team on the Grammy tribute to our legends, Roberta Flack and D’Angelo. When he asked me to do this, I had to say yes.
Before I say anything else, forgive me for being late with this post. I’m in Morocco today after a performance in the Canary Islands last night and have been fully occupied, but I could not let more time pass without expressing my gratitude.
To Jesse Collins, BET, and the entire team, thank you for creating a space for artistry, legacy, love, and celebration.
And now…
To the Kings and Queens who celebrated and serenaded me at yesterday’s tribute:
Wyclef Jean
The War and Treaty — Tanya Blount Trotter & Michael Trotter Jr.
Doechii
SZA
Tems
Tierra Whack
Selah
Doja Cat
Nas
YG Marley
Lizzo
Rapsody
Zion Marley
Alexia Jayy
Queen Latifah
Common
Adam Blackstone & Band
Eric Gales
The MLH Band
I am deeply honored.
THANK YOU.
Each of you is remarkable. You represent far more than yourselves. You carry the hopes of families, the strength of communities, and the stories of generations. Your gifts are rooted in legacy, and your presence was deeply felt.
Thank you for acknowledging me.
Thank you for celebrating me.
The love I felt in that room is something I will carry with me for a very long time.
My desire is that each of you experiences that same love returned to you abundantly by all the people, families, and communities that you pour into, and that you feel as celebrated, as appreciated, and as cherished as you made me feel.
To God be the glory. Always.