One of my dad’s favorite anecdotes was to give people flowers when they could still smell them. In honor of my dad’s 62nd birthday I decided to give some flowers to one of the great geniuses of African American expression. GIL SCOT-HERON is a consummate artist. He was an accomplished author before he even published music, and we all know his mighty poetic artistry is what has come to define the spoken word genre.
I should give credit to the Giant Step and Lyricist Lounge families that introduced me to GIL SCOT-HERON and another giant genius, JOHN COLTRANE. It was at dank, tiny club in New York City called S.O.B.’s that I saw GIL SCOT-HERON perform live. The pain and relevance contained in his lyrics was so readily apparent on his face. It was almost as if GIL wouldn’t be able to complete his set. He seemed ready to just be overcome with emotion and keel over. When GIL SCOT-HERON spoke of the demons that chased the junkie into oblivion you knew he WAS that addict and he was holding on for dear life.
In 2006, GIL announced that he was HIV positive even as he still struggled with heroin addiction. I appreciate GIL SCOT-HERON for being the messenger from GOD for me that ODB was as well as ‘TRANE and BILLIE HOLIDAY were. Look past the drugs and the alcohol and the substances that they were given to dilute their message. They were representatives of love. When I am loving someone that is where I find GOD everytime. GOD has already blessed GIL SCOT-HERON. When you find some love today give thanks for your blessings.
Message To The Messengers
Home Is Where The Hatred Is
Lady Day
We Almost Lost Detroit
Or Down You Fall
The Revolution Will Not be Televised
The Bottle
