Free To Thrive
The Evolution of Black Music as Resistance
Music has been a medium of resistance for Black Americans since the origins of American history. In a country whose existence and wealth are built on the backs of enslaved people, frustration, turmoil and hope are common themes in black art and music. While resistance in black music has been a constant theme throughout history and is still (sadly) highly relevant in today's society, the target of this resistance has shifted or expanded over time to reflect the evolving Black American identity. "Free To Thrive" is a mixed-media concert of music, art and spoken word that shows how the purpose of black resistance music has expanded over time from themes of survival and freedom to themes of self-actualization.
This is a clip of a rendition of Beyonce's "Freedom", an example of modern black resistance music.