Rare Groove, Jan. 29, 2011

Five Blind Boys of Alabama --- Someday We Must Bow Before Him

For those of you who may not be aware, my mother is a minister. My entire childhood was one spent growing up in the church. While there have been many times I have strayed from that path, I remain a firm believer in God, and salvation through Jesus Christ. Would I call myself religious? No I would not. But I am very spiritual person.

Regardless of belief, I do know that death makes us all wonder. Being the type of person who likes to know things before hand, I don't want to leave this world and be unprepared for what comes next. Definitely something that I think about.

Marcus Jamison, the Rare Poet

Remembering the Good Times

I like to pride myself in being a strong person.  It is something that I feel is embedded in my blood.  I come from many generations of strong men and women, who have taught their children to be strong like them.  Earlier this week, one of those men passed away.  My uncle was like a second father to me.  He was always there to lead, guide, and nurture.  He was a soft spoken man, but his words always made an impact, full of wisdom, advice, encouragement, and love.  He lived by an example that I am proud to say I will follow for the rest of my life.  His presence will be greatly missed.

And while this time is hard, I know he's in a better place.  He no longer has to suffer with the worries and pains of this world.  I am just grateful for all of the memories left with me and my family.  We were blessed to know and love a remarkable man for many years, and the impact of that blessing will not only be felt in our lifetimes, but passed down to future generations.

This is what life is all about.  As we live, we touch the hearts and minds of those who we come in contact with.  We should all strive to be the best that we can be, not merely for our sakes, but to enrich the lives of our families and friends.

Embrace those who you love and care about, and cherish the good times while you have them.

R.I.P.  Franklin Jamison Sr.

Marcus Jamison, the Rare Poet

Musical Ink: Lizz Wright - Hit The Ground

sing us poetic songs,
mesmerizing us with your lyrics,
let us trace the length of your melody,
locating the musical ink....

Lizz Wright --- Hit the Ground


I was reading something earlier this morning, that reminded me of how much I love this song.  I was introduced to the soulful jazz of Lizz Wright less than a year ago, but have certainly been a fan ever since.  Her voice has this rawness to it that can unhinge the tightest locks within our listening.  This song invokes that rawness.  The lyrics flood us, and make us hear.  And once we finally listen, it is a beautiful moment.


The lyrics:

Hit the Ground


Hit the ground, baby
It's alright now
Hit the ground, baby
Take your veil down

See your eyes in mine
Leave the rest behind
Hit the ground, baby
'Cause I want to love you now

Hit the ground, baby
I said it's alright now
Hit the ground, baby
You're gonna make it somehow

Baby, why so lonely?
The day has just begun
Hit the ground, baby
Hit the ground and run

See your eyes in mine
Leave the rest behind

Hit the ground, baby
Hit the ground and run
Hit the ground, baby
Hit the ground and run


------


I feel these lyrics in those moments when, upon thinking on giving up, I remember all those people who ever looked at me, held my eyes within their eyes, and silently reassured me.  I can make it.  That makes me gladly continue to run this crazy race we call life.  I feel like I have a destination in mind, and I won't stop until I get there.


Marcus Jamison, the Rare Poet

I Really Love Her Voice....

Meghan Tonjes singing a blend of "Hold It Against Me" by Brittney Spears and "Grenade" by Bruno Mars.  She is amazing.

Marcus Jamison, the Rare Poet

The Very First Poem I Fell In Love With

I, too

I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.

Tomorrow,
I'll be at the table
When company comes.
Nobody'll dare
Say to me,
"Eat in the kitchen,"
Then.

Besides,
They'll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed--

I, too, am America.

—Langston Hughes