What Is the ‘Black National Anthem’? ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ Explained

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What Is the ‘Black National Anthem’? ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ Explained

As a gamer with a diverse background and a keen interest in both sports and music, I find myself at the intersection of these passions during moments like the NFL season opener between the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens. However, the controversy surrounding the performance of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing,’ often referred to as the ‘Black National Anthem,’ has left me with a mixed bag of emotions.

The highly anticipated NFL season opener between the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens in 2024 attracted much attention, but the performance of the “Black National Anthem,” or “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” beforehand stirred debate. This song, which is often played prior to every game in the NFL, has recently become a topic of discussion. So, you might wonder, what is the Black National Anthem? It’s actually a poem set to music titled “Lift Every Voice and Sing.

Here is the explanation of the Black National Anthem and its significance in the NFL Games.

‘Black National Anthem’ song explained

At the beginning of the Chiefs versus Ravens match, gospel singer Tasha Cobbs Leonard sang ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’.

A day prior, Arrowhead Stadium’s official Instagram account (previously Twitter) shared that Cobbs would perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem, during the NFL season opener between the Chiefs and Ravens in Kansas City. Cobbs expressed her enthusiasm and anticipation about this special occasion, saying she was thrilled to begin the season with a live, powerful rendition of this song, promising it would be an unforgettable evening filled with football, music, and an electrifying atmosphere!

Despite being met with intense criticism on social media, Fox News reported that Cobbs’ performance of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ was chosen by the NFL to be sung before each game in 2020. This decision came following the nationwide outrage over George Floyd’s death and subsequent protests.

As a gamer, I recently learned that a song titled ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ was originally penned by James Weldon Johnson as a poem on Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. Over time, it evolved from a poem into an anthem, embodying the struggles and hopes of African Americans in the United States.

According to the NFL’s official site, the chosen song serves to enlighten the public about its significant historical influence. Additionally, it represents a joyous expression of faith and optimism. Previously renowned football player Troy Vincent discussed the importance of the Black National Anthem. He expressed that this anthem has inspired countless generations of African Americans with the belief that God will guide us towards the fulfillment of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This message remains just as relevant today as it was when it was first composed.

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2024-09-06 23:40