The Music We Shared
Music was and still is (as I like to think) a love language shared between my father and me. He was always very honest when he did not like a song or an artist I sent to him. He went into depth with details about the reasons as well. With the same passion, he would explain why he enjoyed the songs and artists he liked.
The
Music
We
Shared
By Kendolyn Walker
Music was and still is (as I like to think) a love language shared between my father and me. He was always very honest when he did not like a song or an artist I sent to him. He went into depth with details about the reasons as well. With the same passion, he would explain why he enjoyed the songs and artists he liked.
My father grew up in a family that enjoyed music and concerts. So, it’s understandable why he wanted to share that love with his wife and children. Daddy set the foundation for us all to appreciate music from all genres, created by people from different backgrounds.
When Pandora first came out, he fell in love. He put it on his work computer and enjoyed all of his favorite artists daily. Daddy was so deep into the Pandora realm that he refused to switch to Spotify when I pleaded with him to make the change.
So these are some of our conversations. Some I shared with him and some he shared with me. Others were fond memories. They all spoke to the empathetic and warm heart my father had. Here are six songs to give you a taste of the music we enjoyed together.
“Stomp” by The Brothers Johnson
This is the earliest and possibly only song I ever danced to with my father. In talking to my aunts, they shared that I was about two or so, and would request the song by yelling “Thomp, Daddy, thomp!” What a time.
A groovy dance tune with a celebratory tone about heading out to have a good time on the weekend or any evening. It hits home more as Brothers Johnson was a sibling group, similar to my own.
Fast Cars - Tracey Chapman
Tracey Chapman was an artist my dad constantly had on rotation in his car. Her calming voice and guitar tracks most likely created the foundation of my love for the acoustic genre.
Chapman sings about escaping a current hard situation and beginning anew. The drums and guitar, along with her one-of-a-kind vocals, really emphasize the theme of despair and hope.
You got a fast car / Is it fast enough so you can fly away?
You gotta make a decision / Leave tonight or live and die this way
Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold
This was an artist my father told me about in my adult years. I am sure I had already moved to New York City when he introduced me to Eva Cassidy’s work. My father loved her voice and was sad that she died at the age of 33. When she passed, her music garnered a lot of attention. She was always too shy for the stage or large audiences but used her voice to interpret songs from all genres creatively. “Fields Of Gold” was an original track by Sting. Cassidy took this song, created a slower tempo version, and sang it with a ballad, nostalgic tone.
Fly - Sara Groves
I have been a lifelong fan of Sara Groves. Her lyrics and melodies, along with her calming voice, have been a part of my growing years.
This song, “Fly,” became a special one between my father and me when I sang it at a close friend’s wedding. My dad was so excited and happy he continued to play this song for years. It reminds me of the way he championed me and cheered me on in all things.
Groves also sings about championing your loved ones with these lyrics and “flying” when encouraged by her partner’s love.
Speak in a summer tone / Pause in the after glow
Tenderly whisper my name / Tell me once again why I am your bride
So I can fly
So I can fly
Pause in your busy day / Look extra long my way
Wink at me across the room / Kiss me longer
Touch my arm when I am by your side
So I can fly
So I can fly
Oh, how the little things / Strengthen my tiny wings
Help me to take on the world / When you love me, there's nothing I wouldn't try
I might even fly
I might even fly
I might even fly
Save The Best For Last - Vanessa Williams
My father told me once that the main reason he liked Vanessa Williams was that she reminded him of my mother. I specifically remember him telling me this during our drives in his car while this song was playing. This fondness has been passed down to me, as I, too, have enjoyed Vanessa Williams’ music and voice for as long as I can remember. Not to mention it has been fun watching her become an amazing actress as well!
In “Save The Best For Last,” Williams sings about a friend becoming a partner. The feel of this song immediately sends me to the 80’s. The keyboard, drums, and strings cushion the words with comfort and peace. She laments about the times he shared his dreams and hopes with her yet continued dating others. But finally, love wins out, and they become '“the best” for each other.
Wiyathul - Gurrumul
I honestly cannot remember where I first heard this song. My sister told me that I am always listening to new music and new artists, so maybe I found Gurrumul, an Aboriginal Australian singer, via one of my Pandora or Spotify shuffles. But I sent it to my father soon after, and I don’t think I heard feedback on it for a while.
Then I think I was talking to him one day, and he started playing it. Again, we were most likely in his car on a drive. Daddy told me the song had brought him to tears. Even as the lyrics in this artist’s native tongue of Yolŋu, the tenderness of his voice indeed soothes my soul despite the fact I do not understand the meaning. I can’t recall all of my father’s critiques of this song, but he definitely told me the tune made him cry.
Gurrumul was a blind musician and singer. He played the drums, keyboards, guitar, and didgeridoo. Something that made him extremely unique was his ability to play a right-handed guitar, even though he was left-handed.
My father was an amazing man who loved Jesus and music of all genres. These songs highlight his compassion, insight, and wisdom. I am thankful, as Daddy laid the groundwork of my passion for music excellence. His love for music, along with his faith, I now walk in.
Kendolyn Walker is a singer-songwriter based in Harlem who serves as producer and founder of The City Love Collective: City Love on the Radio, City Love NYC and the City Love Picnic.
Music Is Healing
A few months, ago I was interviewing my friend Leslie about her music interests. At one point she said, “music is healing.” After taking her very quotable words in, I realized I could not agree more.
So many times, music has lifted my spirits or met me where I am. Whether afrobeats first thing in the morning or on a bus commute to liven the mood or chant-like meditation tunes to center my mind, music remedies any situation we are going through.
Music is God’s gift to us and His hand, along with love is evident in every bit. In the creative unison of chords or the harmonious blend of a choir, His anointing is felt.
I remember watching the movie “The Shack” and Octavia Spencer, who played the role of God, kept mentioning her favorite artists. Guess what, they all were! Whether a rock band, or a blues artist, THEY WERE ALL HER FAVORITES. I believe this to be true. God’s tapestry of majestic sounds and melodies has a hand print on every tune, in my opinion. He gave us minds to brilliantly dream and create. You see this most in music. It is no wonder, that music indeed, is healing.
I want to now, take you through three songs that have met and continue to meet me in different moments. One helps me be present, the second one cushions a workday at the apartment and another reminds me of family along with the good time that New Orleans always is.
Moses Sumney is genius. Let me say this again, he is genius. If you listen to his body of work, you are sure to understand why I feel this statement so strongly.
His track, “Self-Help Tape,” is accurately titled. Another friend, Chris, upon hearing this outstanding collage of audio paintings, called it “therapy.” The words, many in the language of Ghanian Twi, are enchanting and somewhat hypnotic in they lull you to be still.
I always listen to this track before I sing or when I am stressed out. It centers me, and reminds me that God is with me. Who else besides God put this beautiful orchestration of harmonies and instruments together? It’s my ear’s delight each time I press play on this song.
Jill Scott has been a longtime favorite of mine as she has consistently reminded black women of our strength and power, when this world (due to white supremacy) always pushes the narrative as far from this truth as possible. Her tune “Light of Sun” is a radiant beam of light on days when I have to focus or just mellow out. Light of the sun/ on my back are the lyrics repeated. It’s the bonus track for Light of the Sun album.
When I listen to this song, I think of the good days. The sunny days spent outside. The times with family and friends who have become family. The happy occasions that make you want to quit your jobs and live in whatever present bliss you are experiencing forever. Yep, that’s “Light of The Sun”. Easy, chill vibes that will leave you wanting to loop the song over and over and over again. I am quite thankful the track is 6 minutes and 26 seconds.
I have only visited New Orleans a couple times. This is sad to me because I have enjoyed my times there deeply so I should spend more time in this magnificent city than I have. The history and the richness of the neighborhoods and people leaves me always wanting a longer stay.
One event I have not been able to make it down for is the annual jazz festival. I hope to soon. Victory Boyd has a tune called “Jazz Festival” that really transport me back to the grand times I had when I was there. This song opens with an acoustic intro, then the singer’s soothing voice starts describing the well-known event. A favorite moment of mine, which also feels somewhat healing and restorative to me, is the break in the song where a group of young adults are teaching an elder to dance, to only then find out he can do the routine with ease. I find this comforting as this audio scene pays homage to those wiser than us, in recognizing that they indeed have seen everything under the sun. This in itself, brings about a sort of peace as I think about my loved ones, those present and those who has passed away and become ancestors.
Why Mickey Guyton Is Necessary
“Sitting at home and watching the world burn down around me during this pandemic led me to write ‘Heaven Down Here’,” Mickey Guyton said in a statement. “It is a song asking God to spare a little love for this world in need. This song came from the very depths of my heart and has given me a renewed sense of self. It has real raw emotion and was written with a therapeutic intent of healing my heart. I hope that everyone can hear that intent and receive the same healing.” (cmt.com)
“Heaven Down Here” is a song that many of us can deeply relate to, as it expresses emotions and frustrations that arise when things are happening unexpectedly and outside of our control. Guyton wrote this authentic piece to describe her own personal reckoning but in doing so, she gave an empathetic voice to us all.
Guyton became the first Black female solo artist to earn a GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Solo Performance (2021) for the powerful tune, “Black Like Me.” This track emphatically speaks to the hardships of racism in this country and deserved many more awards quite frankly.
My younger brother introduced me to Mickey Guyton’s music during Black History Month last year as I was searching for tunes to add to our Wit + Grace Music Monday playlist. So, I was ecstatic to learn that she was selected to sing The National Anthem at this year’s Superbowl game. As I listened to her library, the honest, yet humble tone of “Heaven Down Here” immediately resonated with me.
As I listened to this song, my own moments of questioning God came to mind as I sought peace in the midst of my own personal storms. I was reminded of the desperate times I have reached out to God for answers. In recently losing my father, and dealing with other hardships, I understand the emotions in trying to make sense of catastrophic chaos.
“Hey God, it’s me
I hate to be a bother
But I could use a minute or two
Yeah, I’m just so
Heartbroken, disappointed
In the way this world is coming unglued
And I can’t help but wonder are you”
“Black Like Me” is a song that speaks to a truth Guyton has had to constantly fight against. Even recently, she shared a post someone wrote that claimed she was being used as a token in the country music community. This is why Mickey Guyton is necessary. Her music speaks to injustices wherever they take place. She uses her words to break down the sinful barriers racism creates. She is okay with getting into the “good trouble” that Rep. John Lewis talked about and encouraged, combating the oppression systemic racism has maintained on all fronts.
If you think we live in the land of the free, you should try to be Black me… Just to live that good life, mm, It shouldn't be twice as hard.
Black artists are not new to country music. Linda Martell, Rissi Palmer, Rhiannon Giddens, and Sunny War are just a few of many Black country singers that have had longstanding careers in this genre. Palmer paved the way for Guyton at Capital Records even, as she discussed here. The significant problem is the artists in the Black community are not usually recognized by mainstream country music platforms. In the PBS series, “Black Artists Helped Build Country Music—And Then It Left Them Behind” by Ken Burns, Burns speaks to this important, often left out, historical fact. (Time.com)
“... one of the series’ central tenets is that country music has always been home to African-American artists.”
Sadly, much of Guyton’s criticism and hateful correspondence has come from White Christians. In early 2021, Guyton received a slew of hate mail after calling out the industry‘s racism and sexism. As a Christian, she was deeply disappointed in receiving such harsh words from members of her own faith community. All of these challenges seem to only propel Guyton’s mission and calling forward. Representation of the Black community is in the heart of everything she accomplishes. I believe Mickey Guyton will continue to use her platform to amplify Black voices in the country music genre, and beyond.
Learn more about Mickey Guyton here.
Kendolyn Walker is a creative based in Harlem who serves as producer and founder of The City Love Collective: City Love on the Radio, City Love NYC and the City Love Picnic.
A Sibling Christmas Playlist
Last week, I had the pleasure of chatting with my younger brother, Jason Walker, about The Music Monday Playlist we collaborated on, “A Sibling Christmas,” which is available now on our Wit + Grace Spotify account.
In this conversation, we talked about our childhood, the holiday traditions our parents maintained, and our love for music. We also, I also… danced. Rare footage y’all of your friendly music editor moving to the beat, or off the beat, at times. In any case, the Los Angeles - Harlem love was felt and we took time to play a few of the tunes to give a taste of the playlist. Enjoy the full video here and then listen to the complete playlist for good times, with a touch of nostalgia.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays from our family to yours!
Kendolyn Walker is a creative based in Harlem who serves as producer and founder of The City Love Collective: City Love on the Radio, City Love NYC and the City Love Picnic.
Christmas Music Review
I Dream Of Christmas by Norah Jones
I DREAM OF CHRISTMAS, Norah Jones
So Christmas came early for me this year when Norah Jones announced that she was releasing a Christmas album in October. Honestly, this album is a dream for serious Norah Jones fans. Each track is touched by the signature melodic, Calgon-take-me-away sound her voice consistently gives.
Jones released I DREAM OF CHRISTMAS on October 15th and specific tracks from the work of art have already been featured a couple of times on The Music Monday Playlist.
The project starts with Christmas Calling (Jolly Jones). As the piano plays, I feel led to put the kettle on for some hot chocolate and marshmallows. Then the album continues with Christmas Don’t Be Late. The run on the “Me, I want a hula hoop” lyric is slow, easy, and fantastic. Christmas Glow sounds like a beautiful snowfall. This song makes me feel like I am walking through a wintry mix looking at lights in neighborhoods that compete with their house decor. It’s Only Christmas Once A Year gives Hallmark vibes, so you can put this on rotation between the endless showings of holiday movies on their TV channel. You’re Not Alone is a beautifully written song that is completely about the gospel of Jesus. The sound takes me to church, specifically the chorus and piano accompaniment. A Holiday With You is a fun ditty from the perspective of someone longing to spend the season with their crush. The good time continues with a tune about the reindeer of all reindeer in Run Rudolph Run. The title track, I Dream Of Christmas, continues the feels from Christmas Glow in giving the same warmth with a bit of an 80s/90s rhythm pattern. And with I’ll Be Home For Christmas, this good time comes to an end. But it doesn’t have to due to the ease of looping the album on your streaming platform of choice. Spotify is favored most deeply in my household.
Please don’t just take my word for it, I strongly suggest you experience this bit of holiday music excellence for yourself. It is quite clear Norah Jones and Christmas music go hand-in-hand. The fine pairing is indeed classic and will no doubt be enjoyed for years to come.
“When those weary nights, take over your mind, I say His love won’t leave you behind”
INFINITE CHRISTMAS, Infinity Song
Coming from a large family, I have a sweet spot in my heart for sibling music groups. When I first learned about Victory Boyd, I was surprised to learn that she also had brothers and sisters who can all SING. Their group Infinity Song released a 3-track EP with Christmas tunes that you will definitely want to play at your gatherings this year.
Christmas Baby is a cute song about longing for a gift of a person. It has a bit of a summer vibe, and the visual reminds me of the R & B videos I grew up on. Home For Christmas is a feel-good tune with a pop, California flare. The chorus is particularly catchy. The guitar intro on Beautiful Christmas sets the tone for the track. The lyrics cause you to stop and sit in gratitude.
Honestly, the fact that a family of siblings created this whole project adds to the goodness of it. Whether you are with your cousins, grandparents, children, aunts and uncles or at home solo on Christmas, INFINITE CHRISTMAS brings the joyful spirit of the holiday, with a lot of happiness, to your home.
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS, Vince Guaraldi Trio
Now we shall get into one of my top favorite Christmas albums of all time. Yes, it reminds me of my childhood. Yes, there are no lyrics. Yes, I believe this work is genius. A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS continues to be a timeless treasure every December.
From the happiness of the keys in Skating to the dramatic overtones in What Child Is This, this album provides the perfect soundtrack for an intimate gathering, a classroom busy at work, or a large office party.
I want to specifically focus on Linus and Lucy for a second. The opening begins with the deeper octave of keys, immediately drawing you in. As the chords continue, they tell a story and set the scene for daydreaming to take place. Towards the end, a break happens in the song as the keys rise the scales bringing me, the listener, SHEER DELIGHT.
Christmastime Is Here, Greensleeves, and O Tannebaum are other holiday classics the trio covers. Overall, this album is the definition of Christmas music. Again, please don’t just take my word for it. I implore you to take it in for yourself. Yes, you will want to pull out the Christmas tree. Yes, you will want to pull out lights to decorate your porch and windows. Yes, you will want to bake cookies. Oh, and of course you will want to watch the actual special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” repeatedly.
Kendolyn Walker is a creative based in Harlem who serves as producer and founder of The City Love Collective: City Love on the Radio, City Love NYC and the City Love Picnic.
Headphone Delights: Tracks By Laura Mvula, Peter Cottontale and Madison Ryann Ward
Pink Noise, Laura Mvula’s latest album.
I came across Peter Cottontale when I was looking for songs by Yebba (a female artist whose mesmerizing voice has been featured multiple times on our #MusicMondayPlaylist). I found “Forever Always” and loved the originality of it. The track takes several turns, features several stellar artists and I loved the complete ride.
So, over the past few weeks, I have come into Peter’s full library, starting with his album, CATCH (2020). Guys, his music is such a breath of fresh air. The creative way in which his music reminds us of God’s truths and beautifully speaks to relevant life circumstances leaves your spirit feeling rejuvenated.
Let me get into my favorites. “Do Your Thing” is a perfect way to open the album. The organ starts out and takes us to Sunday mornings in church. The chorus cheers us on to walk in the purpose God has specifically given each of us. “Keys, Wallet, Phone, God” has a soft melody, and calming tone giving a personal feel in speaking to faith. “Saul/Paul” though? This intensely, creative track tells the story of one of the Bible’s heroes. Although I truly believe you will enjoy Peter Cottontale’s full album, the last one I will mention is “Find You.” The horns, the harmonies and the lyrics will give you hope and remind you of the loved ones who are no longer with us. Enjoy the video of this tune played live at Lollapalooza 2020.
Since Sing To The Moon (2013), Laura Mvula’s voice has shifted my perspective, taken me to happy places and lulled me to sleep when I couldn’t otherwise. A guy I was dating then sent me the record and I gave it a listen. The excellent quality and texture of her voice honestly made me feel like everything is going to be okay. This may sound dramatic, but once you take her debut project or “Magical” from her latest project, Pink Noise, I dare you to tell me different.
To begin with the retro feels that open the song simply put you in a good space. This is a tune that speaks to a life-changing relationship. At least the passion in Laura’s voice give that impression, a moment worth fighting for.
The electric guitar part in the second verse is indeed special. I highly recommend listening with GOOD headphones, as some parts of the orchestration could be missed. And the harmonies … goodness the harmonies. They hit you in the third run of the chorus. The song ends leaving you in a galaxy-like state when Laura’s voice fades repeating “Do you remember?” You have no choice but to reminisce on what once was or simply appreciate the magic you are currently enjoying. The visualizer is posted here with lyrics.
CATCH, by Peter Cottontale
Finding “Player” by Madison Ryann Ward was a pleasant surprise one Spotify-surfing night a few weeks back. I am pretty sure I saw it as a recommendation (those people on that music streaming platform know me so well). So once I took it in, via headphones of course, I knew I wanted this track on the #MusicMondayPlaylist. The guitar intro alone, with the easy drum sets the tone for the song. Her voice, along with the lyrics, easily make this one of my top choices for a morning soundtrack.
“Higher” is another beautiful work with sweet harmonies and a jazzy feel. The electric guitar puts me instantly at ease. The lyrics speaks to the personal relationship between God and women. The intimate sound makes it a perfect devotional experience. The video is posted here for your listening pleasure.
Both of these tracks are refreshing additions to my Christian library as I continue to look and find music that soothes my soul, while reminding me of the One who loves me the most.
Kendolyn Walker is a creative based in Harlem who serves as producer and founder of The City Love Collective: City Love on the Radio, City Love NYC and the City Love Picnic.