Music for Social Justice | Episode VII: Randy Napoleon, Jazz Guitar | "Lift Every Voice and Sing"

Music for Social Justice | Episode VII: Randy Napoleon, Jazz Guitar | "Lift Every Voice and Sing"

When words written 150 years ago sound relevant today, it is clear that while progress has been made there is still much work to be done. Lift Every Voice and Sing, a poem set to music, is an iconic anthem for Black Americans that resonates with today’s calls for racial justice. Jazz guitarist Randy Napoleon reflects on race in America and beautifully uses his art to encourage solidarity, perseverance, hope, strength, and action to help bring positive change.

Randy Napoleon, an MSU associate professor of jazz guitar and sought-after touring musician, is a top-tier band leader and guitarist. Performing with some of the world's biggest names, Napoleon can be found on tracks with Michael Bublé and Freddy Cole. Apart from being one of New York’s most coveted jazz guitarists, he is a dedicated pedagogue and proud Michigan native.

This performance is part of the Michigan State University College of Music video series, Music for Social Justice, an opportunity for MSU artists to express their thoughts and feelings on important social justice issues, doing so with their insightful, often moving comments and of course their art, the music.

The 2020–2021 Music for Social Justice video series is generously sponsored by the MSU Federal Credit Union.

All videos in the MSU Music for Social Justice series have been filmed following safety guidelines and regulations as set forth by Michigan State University and the State of Michigan.

Видео Music for Social Justice | Episode VII: Randy Napoleon, Jazz Guitar | "Lift Every Voice and Sing" канала Michigan State University | College of Music