YOU! HAVE THE POWER | Politics and the power of music

BY DR. ELLEN BROWN

“From the start of our memories, music has been the force for Black people who have taught us, fought for us, prepared us, led us, protected us, consoled us, and buried us. That has not changed!” — Dr. Ellen W. Brown 

The reference to “us” in this context highlights explicitly African-American culture. It does not overlook or downplay other groups, but emphasizes the distinct cultural relationship between people and music. “Music helps us progress in today’s political climate.” 

Like many of you, I turned to music to help my mind and thoughts navigate the political process — which ultimately led to a second term under the same leadership. 

Much of this came from within, as I reminisced about my childhood in a community and family that took their right to vote very seriously. I remember the family story my grandfather, Paw-Paw Miles Nelums, told me many times about how he pulled out his shotgun one morning and declared that he was going to vote! Stories like that resonated with many of us during the 2024 election. 

Patrice Isley, a friend and songstress with numerous music industry credits, is who I turned to when I realized how much we need our music. Its power exists to stabilize and uphold our hopes for the future. It serves to create a platform of truth. Patrice achieves this in every conversation and musical interaction. “As an internationally charted recording artist who has toured and collaborated with over 30 multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning artists, I have experienced the power of music,” she says. “Whether influencing a nation or motivating someone to hold on for ‘just one more day,’ music is truly profound.” 

Patrice goes on to offer her path to hope in times of the unknown: “Champions such as Nina Simone, Marvin Winans, Andre Crouch, and even Marvin Gaye have used music to share the truth and offer hope.” Patrice offers that she puts faith in Psalm 37:18-19, where God promises to keep us during times like these. Along with keeping good music alive, it will help us to survive! 

I also intend to place my faith in Psalm 37:18-19, where God promises to support us during times of evil. This, along with the goal of “keeping good music alive,” will help us not only to “survive” but also to “live” and find a semblance of joy along the way. 

Dr. Ellen Brown encourages your responses to topics in the column. You can send them to ebrown.nci@gmail.com