MLK Tribute

Today, we commemorate and celebrate the life, and work, of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A man who audaciously fought for civil rights, dreaming of a better day for our community. Years later, we see King's dream come into fruition with the election of America's first African American president. But of course, we have a long way to go! 


Around the world, many are celebrating this day in honor of this great man, even those in Hip Hop. Vibe Magazine conducted an interview with Talib Kweli, about Dr. King's dream, whether Hip Hop is fulfilling it and what he plans to do to celebrate the holiday [Talib Kweli Vibe Interview]. Vibe poignantly asked Talib, "do you think Hip Hop still cares about remembering his legacy"? Talib responded acknowledging King's work for the Black community and said Hip Hop could not exist if it were not for Dr. King and the culture recognizes that. And of course we do! 


Look back at Common's "I Have A Dream" song featuring Will.I.Am; a song that merges the lyrics of Common and that of King's famous "I Have A Dream" speech. "In search of brighter days, I write through the maze of madness... I have a dream that one day, Imma look deep within myself, I got to find a way". 

Or even look at the 'Rock the Vote' campaign the Democratic party used to mobilize youth to vote. This was a campaign that was influenced by music, art and pop culture; a campaign that significantly impacted the election of Barack Obama. 

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockthevote/2817172303/" title="Pharrell Williams with N.E.R.D. by Rock the Vote, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3052/2817172303_5641d310d8.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Pharrell Williams with N.E.R.D."></a>


You can even look all the way back to Gil Scott Heron, the "Godfather of Rap" whose memoir was released today; the same man who established a year long tour to make this day a national holiday. [The Last Holiday]


It is obvious from the birth of this entity, those who contribute to it always recognized the great Dr. King. Talib closed his interview with Vibe saying, "Holidays are just another day for me because I try to celebrate in life". In March 1968, right before his death, Dr. King prolifically spoke about justice and work. "All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence". As we move forward, don't only take January 16th to honor the work and legacy of Dr. King. Use all 365 days to uplift the community, whether it is within your Hip Hop lyrics, political work or teaching. 

"Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of HOPE"....

Dr. King National Memory <From http://history.com>