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LEGACY OF BILLIE HOLIDAY’S ‘STRANGE FRUIT’ ENDURES WITH IMPASSIONED COVER BY ANDRA DAY

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LEGACY OF BILLIE HOLIDAY’S ‘STRANGE FRUIT’ ENDURES WITH IMPASSIONED COVER BY ANDRA DAY IN SUPPORT OF THE EQUAL JUSTICE INITIATIVE
Two-time Grammy nominee Andra Day covers iconic song to join Google in support of the Equal Justice Initiative’s “Lynching in America” initiative.
NEW YORK, September 15, 2017 – Andra Day, the award-winning singer, songwriter, and philanthropist, released today a recording and music video for Strange Fruit, the historic song originally recorded by Billie Holiday in 1939. The recording is available on the Lynching in America site (lynchinginamerica.eji.org/strange-fruit) and Andra Day’s YouTube channel. Andra will also be performing Strange Fruit as part of her set at the Global Citizens Festival in NYC on September 23rd.
The goal of Lynching in America, which brings EJI’s multi-year investigation into more than 4,000 reported racial terror lynchings that took place in the United States during the period between Reconstruction and World War II to life, is to spark a national conversation about the connection between America’s painful history of racial violence and the forms of injustice that exist today, including racially-biased capital punishment, excessive sentencing, disproportionate sentencing of racial minorities, and police abuse of people of color.
As part of Google’s focus on Inclusion, the company has given more than $2MM in grants to the Equal Justice Initiative. In addition, Google volunteers have been working with the organization to digitize the Lynching in America research and ensure that as many people as possible have access to the information and content. The Equal Justice Initiative firmly believes that until we face the truth of our past, we cannot heal the deep wounds of our present.
Bryan Stevenson, the Founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative says, “In this collaboration between Andra Day, EJI, and Google, we use music to express a painful and difficult truth about our nation’s history of racial inequality. Inspired music has the power to expose and confront injustice differently than research, data and words alone.  It can heal and uplift us, it’s critical for human rights. Justice work needs a soundtrack that inspires the struggle, it’s energizing that talented artists like Andra rise to the challenge.”
Andra Day says, “Billie Holiday is one of the greatest inspirations for what I do now. She used her music as her platform and her voice to speak for people who were not able to speak for themselves. I am equally inspired by the work of Bryan Stevenson and EJI and I hope this song ignites new conversations about the connection between our past and present.” In the same spirit of music as activism, Andra also performed Stand Up For Something, the title track off of the upcoming film, Marshall, about Thurgood Marshall, the first African American United States Supreme Court Justice.
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We Speak Entertainment

“Beautiful Twilight: A Universal Anthem of Romance and Reflection”

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18 hours ago

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December 18, 2024

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In an era where music often races to keep up with the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, Official Jones has crafted a piece that invites listeners to pause, reflect, and rediscover the timeless beauty of romance. His latest single, “Beautiful Twilight,” is more than just a song; it’s a universal anthem that transcends age and ethnicity, offering a gentle reminder of the elegance and depth that romance can bring to our lives.

Reviving Romance in the Modern Age

“Beautiful Twilight” seeks to rekindle the embers of romance that many feel have been dimmed by the hustle and bustle of contemporary living. Official Jones, with his signature style, has woven together a melody that is both soothing and evocative, creating an atmosphere where love can flourish once again. The song’s gentle harmonies and heartfelt lyrics serve as a call to embrace the softer, more tender moments of life, encouraging listeners to connect with their emotions and with each other.

A Melody for All

One of the standout features of “Beautiful Twilight” is its universal appeal. Official Jones has masterfully crafted a composition that resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s universal themes of love, reflection, and beauty speak to the human experience, making it relatable to anyone who has ever felt the stirrings of affection or the longing for connection.

The music transcends cultural and generational boundaries, uniting listeners in a shared appreciation for the art of romance. Whether you’re a young couple just beginning your journey together or someone who has spent decades nurturing a deep partnership, “Beautiful Twilight” offers a soundtrack to your most cherished memories and aspirations.

Elevating the Mind of Gentlemen

In addition to its romantic themes, “Beautiful Twilight” serves as an invitation for gentlemen to elevate their minds and embrace a more refined approach to love and relationships. Official Jones encourages men to reflect on the qualities that define a true gentleman—kindness, patience, and respect—and to incorporate these values into their daily lives.

The song is a reminder that romance is not just about grand gestures, but also about the quiet moments of understanding and support that build lasting bonds. By listening to “Beautiful Twilight,” gentlemen are inspired to cultivate a deeper emotional intelligence and to approach their relationships with sincerity and grace.

A Timeless Classic in the Making

“Beautiful Twilight” is poised to become a timeless classic, a song that will be cherished for generations to come. Its universal message and captivating melody ensure that it will remain a staple in playlists around the world, a testament to the enduring power of love and music.

Official Jones has not only created a song but a movement—a call to bring romance back into our lives and to elevate our minds and spirits. As we listen to “Beautiful Twilight,” we are reminded of the beauty that exists in the world and within ourselves, encouraging us to embrace each day with an open heart and a renewed sense of wonder.

In a world that often forgets the importance of slowing down and savoring the moment, “Beautiful Twilight” stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, inviting us all to rediscover the magic of romance and the joy of being truly present with the ones we love.

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