https://youtu.be/Jodpe_RUq9Q
History happened Saturday May 9th. And I have to be honest; I’m so glad that I was a part of it. The amazing Jill Scott and incredible Erykah Badu gave us a Mother’s Day gift…quarantine style. These women restored and poured into our souls Saturday during the Verzuz battle.
While most of us were expecting a battle format like some of the past Verzuz, these iconic women did what they do best…changed the game. Instead of two women choosing songs to battle in each round, these pioneers decided to make sure that we enjoyed each song the way that it should be–listened to it in its entirety.
I won’t lie, at first I was shouting back at my screen in disagreement and wanting there to be competition. I just knew Erykah was going to win and I had to make sure everyone knew that I was right in picking her as the winner. Then I realized I was missing the point. Instead of these women competing with each other–like we are always expected to, be it a man, a job, motherhood, whatever–they decided to uplift each other. And the mood, vibe, and ambiance was completely different. Instead of women being pivoted against each other to see who was going to win, we all got to experience an opportunity to come together with one common goal…enjoying good music.
With over 709,000+ viewers including some of the likes of Michelle Obama, Swizz Beatz, Usher, and many, many more, I’d say this was something we all were able to share together.
It was a meeting of the minds. It was a time and space for us to listen to the body of work and accomplishments of two black Queens.
I felt seen. I felt healed. I felt whole.
In the three and half hours listening to their music black women and people all over the world were able to connect and for a moment not think about COVID-19, recent deaths, or murders. It was about allowing music to do what it has always done—heal. Their song choices took us through a journey but most importantly it was our way to feel connected in these very challenging times.
The stories that were shared were about upliftment, empowerment, and love. And I felt that. I felt like I was there in the room with them and my girlfriends talking about life. If you were unable to attend yesterday, don’t fret you can check it out here.
-Merete Fields
