Watch Shining a Light: A Concert for Progress on Race in America
- 2015
- 1 Season
Shining a Light: A Concert for Progress on Race in America is a musical event broadcasted by A&E in 2015. The show is not just any regular concert as it tackles the issue of racial discrimination that exists in America. Hosted by journalist and documentarian Soledad OâBrien, the show features several renowned artists such as John Legend, Pharrell Williams, Imagine Dragons, and many others who perform in honor of the victims of racial injustice.
The event was a part of A&Eâs "Shining a Light" initiative that aims to encourage dialogue and promote understanding and empathy between races. The concert was held at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California and was attended by a diverse audience that included civil rights activists, musicians, and political figures.
The artists performed songs that highlighted the struggle and achievements of African Americans throughout history. John Legend's rendition of "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and Pharrell Williams' performance of "Freedom" were particularly moving and soulful. Alicia Keys sang "We Shall Overcome," which has been an anthem of the civil rights movement for decades. The air was filled with emotion and energy as the artists mesmerized the audience with their uplifting music.
The performances were interspersed with short film segments that portrayed the stories of individuals who have faced discrimination in various forms. The documentary included interviews with families of the Charleston shootings, the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, and Trayvon Martin in Sanford. The short documentaries served as a reminder that these events were not isolated incidents, but part of a larger systemic problem.
The highlight of the show was the rendition of the classic song "Glory" by John Legend and rapper Common. The song, which won an Oscar for Best Original Song in 2015, was originally written for the movie Selma. The performance featured a gospel choir and a group of dancers, creating a powerful and moving moment that brought the audience to their feet.
The concert was not just about music, but also about raising awareness and promoting change. Soledad OâBrien led conversations with civil rights activists such as Bryan Stevenson and the family members of victims who shared their stories and call to action. The focus was on promoting a more inclusive society by acknowledging the past, understanding the present, and working towards a better future.
Shining a Light: A Concert for Progress on Race in America was a unique event that combined music, social justice, and community engagement. The concert reminded everyone that discrimination has no place in the modern world and that we all must work towards building a more just and equal society. The show provided a platform for a diverse group of artists to come together and spread the message of peace and unity through their music. The audience left feeling uplifted, informed, and inspired to take action in their own communities.
Overall, Shining a Light: A Concert for Progress on Race in America was a beautiful tribute to the struggles of African Americans throughout history and a call to action for a better future. The show's success lies in its ability to bring people together and spark conversations around issues that are often difficult to discuss. By using their platform to spread awareness and promote change, the artists involved in the show offered a beacon of hope to those who are fighting for justice and equality.
