From Maya Angelou to Ta-Nehisi Coates: Celebrating Black History and Literary Excellence

By The Rebirth Project

Photo by Oladimeji Odunsi on Unsplash

Happy Black History Month! This year we’ve got an extra day to celebrate due to the leap year, and we from the Rebirth Project want to share a list of UMass, and our own members’, favorite Black authors for your year-round reading lists. Ranging from classics to contemporary literature, our list is full of novels, poems, and essays from centuries of incredible authors. 

Taking a moment to recognize historically significant writers, here is a compilation of some older books you should add to your bookshelves!

Maya Angelou 

Popular works: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Still I Rise

What we recommend: Phenomenal Woman 

James Baldwin

Popular works: A Raisin in the Sun, Go Tell it on the Mountain, Sonny Blues

What we recommend: If Beale Street Could Talk, Giovanni’s Room, Nobody Knows My Name, Stranger in the Village

Countee Cullen 

Popular works: Heritage, A Brown Girl Dead, Incident

What we recommend: For Amy Lowell, Fruit of the Flower, Any Human to Another

bell hooks

Popular works: All About Love: New Visions, The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love, Teaching to Transgress

What we recommend: Communion: The Female Search of Love, Ain’t I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism, A Woman’s Mourning Song, Appalachian Elegy 

Langston Hughes

Popular works: The Weary Woes, The Ways of White Folks, Simple (a series of books)

What we recommend: Mother to Son, The Big Sea, Dream Variations

Toni Morrison 

Popular works: The Bluest Eye, Beloved, Jazz, A Mercy

What we recommend: The Nobel Lecture in Literature, Five poems (a collection)

Interested in Black history and theory? Check out these essays:

Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin 

On Being Young– a Woman– and Colored by Marita Bonner

We Were Eight Years in Power by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Thick by Tressie McMillan Cottom 

The Negro Artist and the Racial Mountain by Langston Hughes

Who Will Pay Reparations for My Soul? by Jesse McCarthy

For our poets and poetry lovers, below are collections and individuals we from Rebirth love! 

Collections from Elizabeth Acevedo

Clap When You Land 

The Poet X

Dispatch by Cameron Awkward-Rich

Lucille Clifton

Golden Apple of the Sun by Teju Cole

Golden Ax by Rio Cortez

Collections from Vievee Francis 

The Shared World

Another Antipastoral 

Forest Priveal 

When Angels Speak of Love by bell hooks

Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi & Yusef Salaam

March being Women’s History Month, this section includes some of our favorite Black feminists.

The Heart of a Woman by Maya Angelou

Bad Feminist: Essays by Roxanne Gay

Georgia Douglas Johnson

Ripe: Essays by Negesti Kaudo 

Zami: the New Spelling of My Name by Audre Lorde

Sula by Toni Morrison 

Sometimes I Trip on How Happy We Could Be by Nichole Perkins

In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens: Womanist Prose by Alice Walker

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Last but not least, here are just good books to read.

With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo

The Crossover by Kwame Alexander 

Many Thousands Gone by Ira Berlin

Books by Octavia Butler

Kindred

Conversations with Octavia Butler

Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

Drinking from Graveyard Wells by Yvette Lisa Ndlovu 

If You Come Softly by Jacqueline Woodson

Books by Ibi Zoboi 

Black Enough: Stories of Being Young and Black in America 

American Street

And don’t forget, it’s important to read about Black history or history that might not be yours, year-round. Support BIPOC authors anytime you can. We wish you all happy reading! 🙂

Red Hair, Country Music, and Soul: The Reyna Roberts Effect

Photo by Oath Management

By Diamond Smith

Nashville, TN — In the heart of country music’s capital, where the soulful twang of guitars resonates through the air, a rising star has emerged, breaking through the stereotypical image of country music. Reyna Roberts, a 26-year-old African-American country singer with a shock of signature red hair, has made waves in the industry with her debut double album, “Bad Girl Bible,” released on Sept. 8, 2023.

Roberts, a native of Alaska, is turning heads and challenging perceptions about what country music should sound like. Much like her predecessors: Lil Nas X with his release of “Old Town Road”, Blanco Brown, Kane Brown, Mickey Guyton, and one of the greats: Jimmie Rodgers (Who is called the Father of Country Music).  According to Time Magazine, the blues with its chords of drums and stringed instruments deprived of, “slave spirituals, field songs, religious hymnals, or the works of professional black songwriters.”

Within the modern-day music landscape, we have seen a reclamation as well as a fusion of country music with acoustic rhythms, R&B influences, and a unique blend of acoustic rhythms, R&B influences, and a voice that speaks to the heart. Roberts has carved out a niche for herself in an industry that has often been criticized for its lack of diversity.

From her visual albums Stompin Grounds in 2020 and Pretty Little Devils, to her most recent, “Bad Girl Bible” is a game-changer. The double album features a rich tapestry of storytelling, blending traditional country themes with modern narratives. Each track is a testament to Roberts’ versatility as an artist, seamlessly fusing the raw emotion of country music with the sultry vibes of R&B. With her influences ranging from Beyonce to Carrie Underwood.

Photo by Reyna Roberts

Roberts’ music is her soulful voice as well as her authenticity which effortlessly traverses the highs and lows of love, loss, and self-discovery. The song’s lyrics delve into the complexities of embracing one’s authentic self, challenging societal norms, and celebrating individuality.

On Taste of Country, a mobile app that provides news, interviews, country music songs, and videos about country music, Roberts expressed in an interview, “Definitely getting acceptance and help from other artists gives me more confidence in myself,” she continues, “but then also realizing, like, ‘Hey, you’re a pretty bada– girl!’ Just having to remind myself [to not] feel too shy all the time, not going back to my introverted self, saying, ‘Girl, you got this! Remember who you are!’ That’s been essential for my mental state.”

Photo by Reyna Roberts

The album has garnered widespread acclaim not only for its groundbreaking sound but also for Roberts’ identity as a black woman who proudly shares her passion for country music and music in general. Reyna Roberts represents a new era in country music, conversations can be had about diversity and the true history and origins of country music in the black community. She encourages black women to be themselves midst a society that may try and put them in a box and other artists to explore and experiment with their unique styles.

In an industry where representation has been a long-standing issue, Roberts is breaking barriers and providing a fresh perspective. She is not only making a name for herself but also opening doors– as many have before her –for other artists who may not fit the traditional mold of a country star.

To Read More: Reyna Roberts Says It Took Time to Find Musical Self-Confidence | https://tasteofcountry.com/reyna-roberts-pretty-little-devils-new-music-2023/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral

Photo by Reyna Roberts

Celebrating 50 Years of Hip-Hop

DJ Kool Herc performing at a block party (Photo credits: Icon Collective)

By Fiona Bautista

On Aug. 11, 1973, the world was changed forever.

In an era of political tension and economic troubles, residents of the Bronx were divided in more ways than one–the construction of the Cross Bronx Expressway being the most significant contributor.

Prior to the building of this freeway, the neighborhoods that would be most impacted by its creation were considered “among the most racially integrated in the country.” However, many white residents fled to other neighborhoods as challenges arose, leaving Black and Brown communities in the wake of the destruction. The conditions of these neighborhoods deteriorated, resulting in the rise of crime and poverty.

Despite these hardships, the youth of the displaced communities found joy through block parties. One party, in particular, resulted in the creation of the genre we know and love today.

DJ Kool Herc, born Clive Campbell, decided to host a back-to-school party with his sister at their apartment complex on 1520 Sedgwick Ave. There, he premiered the “break-beat” technique, which elongates the climax of a song by switching between two turntables to loop the break. This technique marks the birth of hip-hop.

Hip-hop was quick to catch on after that, developing its own culture and providing communities with a platform to express themselves.

Artists in the early stages of American hip-hop often called out corruption, violence, and the poor quality of life in their neighborhoods. Hip-hop gave individuals a voice.

Hip-hop is more than just music, though. Four core elements now define the genre–DJing, MCing, breaking, and writing.

DJing involves the beats and music; they are the foundation. Defined as “disc jockeys,” DJs work intimately with turntables to switch from one song to another and create new and exciting sounds that audiences can appreciate.

MCing, in simple terms, is rapping. Originating as somewhat of a sidekick to the DJ, MCs–also known as masters of ceremonies–were people that simply made announcements. Over time, they became more prominent figures, freestyling and commanding the room to keep people engaged and the energy up.

Breaking is the dance style that defines hip-hop. Because the genre is so heavily based on off-the-dome decisions, breaking takes inspiration from numerous dance styles and combines them to create something unique.

Lastly, writing is the graffiti art that is so often associated with the “look” of hip-hop. Consisting of bright colors, bubble and block lettering, and the challenging of boundaries of traditional art, it predates the other three defining elements of the genre.

With the speedy development of hip-hop, it comes as no surprise that it became a global sensation. By the 1980s, the music genre’s influence expanded to international territories.

Aug. 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. However, this is a year-long celebration. There will be numerous events around the world intended to highlight hip-hop culture. This includes concerts, battles, exhibitions, and several iconic hip-hop figures coming together to honor the golden anniversary.

One way the music industry has already celebrated the anniversary was at the 2023 Grammy Awards, where artists shared music’s biggest stage to perform a tribute to hip-hop’s rich history. This showcased legendary figures such as Grandmaster Flash, Public Enemy, LL COOL J, Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliott, Ice-T, Queen Latifah, Salt-N-Pepa, and more.

You can celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop with The Rebirth Project now on Spotify!

Invitation for DJ Kool Herc’s party that marked the birth of hip-hop (Photo credits: Icon Collective)

Making an IMPACT with Maurice Powe

IMPACT Founder, Maurice Powe at an event. (Photo contributed by the IMPACT movement)

By Diamond Smith

Maurice Powe felt it was his responsibility to take care of those who were vulnerable and those who were less fortunate. The greater his passion, the greater his purpose, giving him the drive to make an impact in his community. Maurice Powell, a junior studying Psychology and English, always felt there was an importance to empowerment and advocacy.

Before becoming president of the IMPACT Movement, Powe took a leap of faith and met with National IMPACT President Jimmy McGee on a flight to Indianapolis after emailing him. Before he knew it, he was off to an event with McGee. Powe felt called to become President of IMPACT as part of the desire to be a part of a change within UMASS Amherst. Since just last year, this organization has had a significant impact on its members. 

Throughout his time at UMass Amherst, Powe has seen a pattern among Black and minority students. There are several other Christian organizations on campus that express their love for God and have fellowship within welcoming environments. When racially charged situations occur on campus, Powe expressed the importance for Black Christian students to want to feel safe within their own spaces. The IMPACT Movement was created to serve as an avenue for young Black Christian students to express themselves, build relationships, and be supported by other UMass Amherst community members. Creating these safe spaces is very beneficial regarding representation and solidarity. In many ways, Powe says “it can be a healing environment.”

“In addition to managing schoolwork and other responsibilities, it can be extremely stressful. Anyone who may feel like they are going through a tough season in classes, on campus, or in any situation, there will always be joy in it. You will make it through, said Powe.

A bible verse Powe shares that rests on his heart is James 1:2-3: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, to endure trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” There is sometimes tension on campus due to discrimination against minority students. Powe emphasizes that, through his hardships, he is building faith which is very empowering because he is both a student and a leader.

“Sharing your story has a lot of importance when it comes to living a life that exemplifies God’s love toward us and encourages others to seek him. When you share your trials with someone and how you have overcome them, you can change someone’s life a lot.” said Powe.

Powe expands on how IMPACT works to help promote minority students and their stories. “As both a Black student and a Black Christian, you have power. No one shouldn’t feel minimalized for their experiences.” said Powe. IMPACT is dedicated to equipping Black students to “become disciples of Jesus Christ, and impact is implementing their faith into every aspect of their life.”  In addition to helping students grow as servant-leaders, the movement offers opportunities for them to serve others by participating in projects outside of UMASS Amherst that have positive influences on their communities.

The Impact movement goes on trips to Ghana, other states, and cities like Milwaukee, which has been impacted by police brutality. The IMPACT Movement places a lot of emphasis on coming alongside locals and learning from them rather than forcing a particular framework or agenda that might disrupt or even damage those communities and their cultures.

“With this perspective, it allows students to understand that it is our privilege to take part in mission trips, instead of the narrative of foreign countries being privileged enough to receive us. At the end of the day, it’s all about them, and it shouldn’t be about us. We’re supporting and coming alongside rather than intruding and disrupting.” said Powe.

 As a cultural identity student movement, representation, and community engagement matter. “The intersectionality Black Christian students may experience can be understood within spaces like IMPACT. It is an affinity space to decompress and discuss these issues we face.” When we are called to understand our biblical identity in God’s eyes, a big thing members should take away is grounding themselves in the gospel and knowing Jesus Christ died on the cross for us.” said Powe.

The IMPACT Movement is ongoing during the school year and meets Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. Each session will have different activities that can be attended by all members of IMPACT Club regardless of where you live on campus or what level of involvement someone may have with the organization. IMPACT is more than just fun activities; it’s a way of life. We are left to question how we live out our faith in a way that exemplifies God’s love toward us and encourages others to experience God’s love and grace.

Impact’s Instagram: @Impactumass 

Email: impactumassma@gmail.com

Members of IMPACT (Photo contributed by the IMPACT Movement)

What Does Black Excellence Mean to You? (Vox-Pop)

By: Steven Turner-Parker

Ubuntu means “I am because we are.” As black history month comes to a close, Black student organizations had many events on this campus that embodied Ubuntu community elements and showcased what black excellence looks like. With that said, I decided to find some of these fantastic people on this campus to ask them an important question: What does black excellence mean to you?