We are joy!
igniting the world,
like stars caliente and bright,
like trumpets blaring at midnight!
You hear that?
skit-skat-caddy-wack!
It’s the music of our past.
it’s our rhythm and our blues
but you can’t choose (just one).
Our joy is the anthem of life
heard on monument steps,
opera stages, stadium filled
with thousands of faces
One heart,
uma alma,
un esprit…
muchas lenguas.
We speak the language of books and streets,
feet stamping concrete.
Countless steps
that set the world on fire
as we sing and chant
for all to remember
our names
[…]
No matter what they say…
because someday,
when it’s your turn to rule the world,
people will be amazed and they will question the power of you.
And when they do,
you be sure to let them know…
You are brilliant,
extraordinary,
for-beyond-ordinary.
The very best of who we are.
Comprehension Questions
1. What type of music is important to black culture?
A. Classical
B. Rock
C. Rhythm and Blues (R&B)
A. More than one dialect
B. More than one language
C. More than one number system
Your Thoughts
Vocabulary
4. List any vocabulary words below.