With February being the month of Black History Month, I figured I would give everyone a double review with a song that is about Black History and mentions spirituality too! I heard this song some time last year and knew I had to bookmark it so I could come back to it. This song is from a movie called, “Selma” which is about Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life of leading civil rights marches in Selma, Alabama in 1965.
“Hands to the Heavens, no man, no weapon
Formed against, yes glory is destined”
The song features Common and John Legend, who also plays piano in addition to vocals. The lyrics describe the peaceful protests that Dr. King led for black people and the reasons behind the feelings of the people in those marches. The meaningful lyrics inspire change and goodness in the face of danger and hurt while relying fully on the glory of God. The song poetically draws similarities between Jesus Christ and the way that Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led the way to civil rights for black people, one of my favorites being “Even Jesus got His crown in front of a crowd” referencing Jesus’ crown of thorns being placed on His head at His crucifixion being similar to Dr. King’s last name. Another one of my favorite lines being, “The biggest weapon is to stay peaceful.” Which is another correlation that these two great leaders shared. Even faced with death, they led peacefully and honestly.
“One day when the glory comes
It will be ours, it will be ours”
This song went on to win Common a Grammy in 2015 for Best Original Song, which Common refers to as one of the greatest joys in his life, and rightfully so. Common has made conscious music for a long time, even before then, but this song was a masterpiece that showcases his storytelling skills and tied black freedom to the freedom that Christ brings all of His followers.
“Welcome to the story we call victory
The comin’ of the Lord, my eyes have seen the glory”
The overall sound of the song is triumphant and prosperous while it’s backed by the soulful singing of John Legend and the choir or the conscious invoking flow Common supplies us with, you can’t help but feel the optimism in the music!
References:
Common, and John Legend. “Common, John Legend – Glory.” YouTube, 12 Jan. 2015. Accessed 28 Jan. 2025.
Common. “Common & John Legend – Glory Lyrics | Genius Lyrics.” Genius.Com, 11 Dec. 2014. Accessed 28 Jan. 2025.