– INITIATIVE LAUNCHED TO CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENTS AND TALENTS OF BLACK YOUTH WORLDWIDE
– MARKS 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HIT TRACK ‘YOUNG, GIFTED AND BLACK’ BY MARCIA GRIFFITHS AND BOB ANDY
Trojan Records has launched a campaign tied around the 50th anniversary of the hit single ‘Young, Gifted and Black’ by Bob Andy and Marcia Griffiths.
The initiative makes a nod to the music which marked a monumental UK chart and cultural moment 50 years ago, whilst equally spotlighting the plethora of young, black individuals making waves worldwide today in 2020.
Launching as a social media campaign as well as content submissions being housed on a newly created Young, Gifted and Black website, the activation invites the public to submit photos and video clips showcasing stories and examples of black excellence.
This content will feature on the website acting as a rich digital tapestry depicting the diverse and remarkable stories of the young, black, and gifted youth who are shaping the future.
“Storytelling began in Africa, it is in the very DNA of her people. As we all go through some type of lockdown worldwide, we want to take this moment to reflect and look for the good.
We encourage all South Africans – of all shades, from all walks of life, to join us in this global celebration of being Young, Gifted and Black. As we celebrate this 50 year anniversary of this classic anthem, let us as a globally community encourage, empower, and motivate our youth for being unapologetically black or brown and celebrate pure excellence.” says Jonathan Jules, BMG Director International Marketing Africa and Middle East.
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Content submissions are being accepted online and across socials under the hashtag younggiftedandblack2020. The entries will then be chosen with winners being featured in a highly stylised music video which is being made to reimagine the message of the song for the modern-day audience breathing fresh air into its powerful lyrics. South African stars that have uploaded and shared their stories include Zolani MaholaFreshlyground), multi-award winning Jazz vocalist Talie Monin, Hip-hop star Shabzi Madallion, Nipho Mkhize, Kenzy Mohapi and many more.
Marcia and Bob’s performance of ‘Young, Gifted and Black’ paired with the song’s powerful theme resulted in the track becoming one of the first reggae tracks to make it to the top 5 of the Official UK Chart on 4th April 1970 over 50 years ago. Originally recorded and released by Nina Simone in 1969, the song was a huge US hit and an anthem of the American Civil Rights Movement, while its positive message struck a chord with communities around the globe.
In times of such uncertainty, the campaign builds on the important narrative the track encompasses, all whilst restoring faith in humanity and proving that music is a universal language used to unite nations and sparking stories to inspire us amongst difficult circumstances