By Zach Collier
Last night in Texas, five Dallas police offers were fatally shot during a street protest against police violence. Seven others were wounded, making yesterday the deadliest event for United States law enforcement since the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. The shooting comes in the wake of mounting tensions related to disproportionate police brutality among black American citizens. On Wednesday, a video of Alton Sterling’s death at the hands of Louisiana police officers was uploaded to the internet. A day after the death of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile was shot at point-blank range during a routine traffic stop for a busted tail light in Minnesota.
At a time when social media is being used as a tool by people on both sides of a complicated issue to escalate tensions, three Provo musicians are instead using social media to unite and heal. Today, Provo-based rapper Na-G, soul/R&B singer Yahosh Bonner, and producer Jonathan Litster released their cover of “Glory.” The song was originally written by John Legend and Common for the 2014 historical drama, Selma.
“You may not be able to go out and protest for the lives of the cops who were killed in protecting the innocent in Dallas or attend a BlackLivesMatter rally to mourn the death of Alton Sterling or Philando Castile,” said Na-G on a post to social media. “But you can share this video to promote peace and LOVE for ALL.”
The video was directed and edited by Sam Wilder. Wilder is currently the associate video coordinator for the Brigham Young University football team. He has worked frequently with Provo musician Jamesthemormon, directing and editing music videos for his songs “Treasure” and “Dreamin’.” He also shot the music video for “SHAKEFACE” by House of Lewis member Donnie Bonelli.
The video ends with this quote from Martin Luther King, Jr: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
In the aftermath of a tragic week, Reach Provo sues for peace. No matter who you are or where you come from, never let hatred or violence overcome you. When tempted to lump an individual into a faceless group of people just because they share similar physical features, instead picture that individual at home with family, doing the dishes or mowing the lawn. Picture them crying themselves to sleep at night on their most embarrassing day of school. Picture them happy, blowing out the candles on their birthday. See them for who they really are: an individual with hopes, dreams, regrets, relationships, and worth.
We all deserve love, respect, and protection.
Love is the answer. Let life live.
You can watch the video for “Glory” below. You can like Na-G on Facebook by clicking here.
Provo Music Magazine 