Publication Type: Invited Paper
Abstract: Most of the Music geniuses of African decent have no concept of the multi-billion dollar industry they have spawned. However, they are painfully aware of their non-participation in the money their music makes for others. The financial loss inflicted on Black Music Makers and their heirs is sufficient to make a major impact on the economic status of Africans in the Americas.Another historic truth is that Black Folks in this country get nothing of major impact without a law, i.e. – Civil Rights, Voting Rights, Education, Employment and Housing. We must have laws with sanctions to get into the music money. We must overcome a hundred years of deliberate intent – “not to pay Black Artist for Race Records” and go after our money NOW. Music is changing to digital format, is being bought up by foreign conglomerates and will soon be lost to us forever. A letter has been sent to the President asking for a Commission to study and recommend solutions. However, we can’t wait on others, we must make this fight for ourselves. (Copy of letter available on request).Along with the money, we must also fight to take back the beauty and dignity of our music without sacrificing the creative genres launched by young Artists. In tribute to the valiant fight initiated by the late, great Honorable Dr. C. Delores Tucker we must also demand the clean up of our lyrics.