After watching an amazing show I can say that I am inspired, motivated and the level of encouragement that was giving out from all of the "Black Girls" that ROCK was awesome. A show that I enjoyed watching with my daughter. She had questions and at no point was she not in tune. But, let's get to the juicy stuff.
Everything went as planned. All of the performers that I named earlier had giving their best and I was truly impressed. The show opened with Erykah Badu "Apple Tree". If you aren't familiar with the song here are a few lyrics: "I'd like to dedicate this to all the children, I have some food in my bag for you, Not the edible food the food you eat no, Perhaps some food for thought, Since knowledge is infinite"...ok ok I'm done but you get the point and reason for the song selection. She went on to freestyle on a beat machine which blended with the live on stage all GIRL rock band. She gave us a female version of a Dougie Fresh, beatbox piece straight off the top. She exercised her artistic ways live and right in front of an audience full of eager onlookers. Right after, we were blessed with the presence of out host Tracee Ellis Ross and Regina King. Tracee' wearing an all black long sleeve sequin dress. Yes, of course her was in those beautiful natural curls that she just owns! Regina on the other hand had on and all white pant jumpsuit with a plunging neckline. I love the fact that they chose to wear opposite colors it made complete sense.
The host went to say that three women from the African Continent won the Nobel Peace Prize this year in 2011. Yes, I did mention an all female rock band which played for each act that performed. The first award was presented by LaLa Anthony and was giving to Taraji P Henson "Star Power". Taraji went on to talk about being a single parent and struggles with that as a woman. She also gave praise to all single parents even the fathers. Which is an awesome task to handle for anyone, especially alone. She also express her feelings towards her dad and what he meant to her. She stated "my dad told me to (leave those that share your same problem and get around those that have your solution)". I had to repeat two to three to fully understand it myself but once I clicked. It made perfect sense. (I cried) Taraji has gotten nominated for an academy award for Benjamin Button in 2009 but all remember her from "Baby Boy" and if not that "Hustle and Flow". Taraji brings so much to each character that she plays. Leaving a piece of herself with us each time. I'm sure you guys appreciate it as I do. Tatayna Ali was giving the "Young, Black & Gifted" award. Presented by Trichina Arnold (Pam) form the hit sitcom "Martin". Tatayna looked stunning and left us with a sweet saying that I appreciated. She said "Cherish your sisters, your family and true friends. You'll know who they are because they will only speak truth to you". (The letter to the younger me, is what she title her entire speech). She went on to say her mom told her to be a sponge, soak up knowledge, observe and take in everything. Tatayna put her acting career aside to further her knowledge. She is now a Harvard University graduate. Congrats!!!
Tracee' and Regina went on to explain what a M.A.D woman is...it's a woman "Making A Difference"! They also went on to acknowledge those young females who has already made a difference in their communities. Like, Leanni Archer who's only 14yrs old and has create her own line of organic hair care products. She has took some of her earnings and donated and helped feed under privilege children in her community. There were snippets of Patti Labelle, Gladys Knight, and Anita during commercial breaks. They were all touching on their experiences and how they stayed on their paths. Anita Baker said "this is about education and never be afraid to experience {the freedom of shedding tears}".
The next award was giving to WNBA's President Laurel J Richie "Shot Caller". Laurel accepts her award with what looks like tears in her eyes. She says "I'm always thinking about helping, supporting, and uplifting women". She goes to give her advice "it's not what you want to be (profession) but the type of person you want to be and start from there". Elle Yarner came on to perform her single "Only Wanna Give It To You". Her presence was know bringing so much life to the stage. Her outfit was very creative and vibrant.
Angela Davis "Human Rights Activist" was awarded the "Icon" award. She gave her speech and explained her story. She became an activist at the age 25, she was apart of the "Black Panthers". Later, to go on the run for a few months trying to allude the FBI. She was on the 10 most wanted list and when she was finally captured she spent 10 months in jail. This was definitely a story worth listening to. Just understanding the struggle and hardship of women of color explains the main reason for this organization. Jill Scott had an OH SO AWESOME performance which started out with poetry (some of us call it "spoken word"). I quote "Yes, I do crave for a man in my space who's blessed with God's grace"...Owww Miss Jill Scott!! Then she finished up with her single "Hate on Me" which I love so much. Imani Walker and Malika Saada Saar received the "Trailblazer" award. The organization that these ladies run "RebeccaCiCi Winans presents the "Living Legend" award to Shirley Caesar and with tears nearly dropping from her eyes she accepts it and still remains humble & full of life. Shirley says "I'm not as young as them but I'm still rocking". (Smile)
Mary J Blige performs her hit single "My Life" and then closes with "Just Fine". Yes, MJB looked amazing and she gave us LIFE!!
Just want to thank Beverly Bonds for this awesome showcase of great women with great intentions no matter the line of work they chose to better themselves. We need this in our community. Encouragement, Motivation, Education and Uplifting. We appreciate you. Also, to Deborah Lee you did it again. BLACK GIRLS ROCK!!!!!!
