By: JaNae Fleming
In this article, Alisha Jones explores intersectionality through music, specifically through singer Marian Anderson and composer Florence B. Price. Since the beginning, African American music has been pivotal because it is sometimes reflective of the sociopolitical environment surrounding them. This history is reflected not only in the music itself but also in performance. Throughout the article, Jones is sure to reference the many political movements in today’s society that were started by black women, some of which being for black women. I found this article extremely fascinating because not only was Marian Anderson challenging the political environment through her performance but also through her choice in women composers. While I have been taught about many black women performers like Eartha Kitt, Etta James, and even Josephine Baker, many of which were accompanied by male singers and songwriters. Her ability to challenge racist, sexist, and classist acts of others through performance is incredible. In the article Jones also mentioned Eleanor Roosevelt and her “lady white savior” which I think is important because most stories about black history makers, especially in terms of musical performance, accompanies the help of white people. I believe Marian Anderson deserves the title of being groundbreaking because of the fact that not only did she become a history maker but so did many other women who worked with her.
