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In a move that intertwines sports, culture, and history, the upcoming 2024 Super Bowl is setting the stage for a deeply symbolic performance that’s already sparking discussions nationwide. Andra Day, renowned for her soul-stirring voice, is slated to perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black national anthem, before the game begins. This decision by the NFL is more than just a musical performance; it’s a nod to a complex tapestry of American history, civil rights, and the ongoing dialogue about equality and representation in the country.
Penned in 1899 by James Weldon Johnson, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” started its journey as a poem. It was written to commemorate President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, paying homage to the man many consider a pivotal figure in the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Over time, however, the poem, set to music by Johnson’s brother, J. Rosamond Johnson, transcended its original purpose, embedding itself deeply in the African American cultural fabric.
By the mid-20th century, the song had garnered the moniker of the Black national anthem, a testament to its ubiquity and significance during the Civil Rights Movement. Its verses, laden with themes of liberty, resilience, and hope, resonated profoundly with a community striving for equal rights and recognition. This anthem became not just a song but a rallying cry, a source of comfort, and a reminder of the long journey from slavery to freedom.
However, the designation of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” as the Black national anthem has not been free from controversy. Some argue that it creates unnecessary divisions, while others see it as an essential acknowledgment of the African American experience and the ongoing struggle against racial inequality. These discussions are indicative of the larger national conversation about representation, history, and the ways in which America grapples with its complex past.
Previous renditions of the anthem at the Super Bowl by stars like Alicia Keys, Mary Mary, and Sheryl Lee Ralph have set a precedent for this moment. Each performance, in its own way, served to honor the legacy of the African American experience while making a statement about the nation’s ongoing journey toward equality.
The NFL’s decision to feature “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at Week 1 games in 2020 was a bold stance on social justice issues, reflecting the league’s evolving approach to addressing racial inequality. This came at a time when the country was deeply engaged in a dialogue about police brutality, systemic racism, and the Black Lives Matter movement.
The lyrics of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” are a potent reminder of the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of the African American community. More than just words, they convey a centuries-long struggle for dignity, rights, and recognition.
When Super Bowl LVIII airs on CBS and streams on Paramount+ on Feb. 11, 2024, from Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, with kickoff at 6:30 p.m. ET, it will be more than just the biggest game of the year. It will be a moment where sports, history, and culture intersect, reflecting the ongoing dialogue about who we are as a nation and how we honor the diverse experiences that shape our collective identity. Andra Day’s performance will undoubtedly be a poignant reminder of the journey thus far and the path that still lies ahead.