The
song “keep your eye on the prize” was a song of encouragement for African
Americans during the civil rights movement. The song lyrics are easy to sing
but still carry a powerful message and therefore were a favorite among
protestors. The song most likely loudly chorused on the streets during the
protest of many cities. The song resonated with the people who were feeling
overwhelmingly oppressed and beaten from the nastiness of racism. It is
difficult to imagine what it was like to be an African American during this
time period in American history. This song definitely helped its audience. It encouraged
the African American community to keep fighting for racial equality. Because of
it’s religious connotations the song was most likely sung throughout church
audiences in the south and throughout the nation. The catchy lyrics probably
gained popularity with the younger generation as well as with the old. The song
also became popular with other parts of the population. The song was sung by
white, folk singer Pete Seeger at Carnegie hall in 1963. Many Contemporary artists
such as Bruce Springsteen, and Joss Stone have also sung the song.
-Adam
Its really nice to read about works that were specifically aimed for African Americans during this time. My group is also working under the civil rights theme but the article I have analyzed is mainly directed towards the White community. Ironically when thinking about the Civil Rights Movement it is easy to ignore the emotional and spiritual struggle of African Americans. We read and hear plenty about the physical aspect of their sufferings but probably never fully consider what could have been even more painful to bear. Songs like this seem to have come as a ray of hope in the midst of the darkest circumstances, and reflect the comfort and power people of all types can find in music and song.
ReplyDeleteWell done analysis.
-Karla
I find it truly amazing how a song could have such an impact on all African Americans, young, old and in-between. There is not much in today's world that ties people of all ages together by a single string. It makes sense that they all stuck together, because in this time of suffering they needed support. I find it interesting also that contemporary artists have covered this song. This song had a lasting impact on the people, and I find that incredible interesting.
ReplyDelete-Jeff Brower
Music has always been a powerful tool in rhetoric. There's something about powerful lyrics and a catchy melody that captures our attention. It's also important to note the context around the period of time the song came out because if this song were to come out today it wouldn't carry as much meaning as it did in this time period.
ReplyDelete