Even though January 16th is recognized as Martin Luther King Jr Day, King was born January 15th 1929. Originally a federal holiday was first proposed just four days after his death in 1968 (Assassinated April 4, 1968). Finally two decades later the holiday was signed into law 1983, In 1986 is where the first observance actually had taken place. As you can see such time gaps indicate the fight within govt for this recognized holiday. Most states opposed the idea, some southern states  even recognize Robert E. Lee on the exact same day as King’s designated holiday.

I had the privilege of being introduced to this subtle fire’s activism (works) at a young age. I may have not been sharing the same era, but it was something about the way he painted colorful pictures with words, made the vision reality. King fought for equal rights across the board, despite obstacles thrown his way, he is the definition of a true leader. I honor you for your courage, strength and fearlessness. Thank you a thousand times! The “I have a dream”  Speech may be one of his most quoted deliveries, in retrospect I would like to share some quotes that I like most.

“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right temporarily defeated is stronger than evil triumphant.”
— Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech, December 10, 1964

“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.”
— “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” April 16, 1963

“Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And he’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over, and I’ve seen the promised land . . . So I’m happy tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I’m not fearing any man.”
— “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech, April 3, 1968 (the day before his assassination)

“Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.”
— Strength to Love (1963)

Quotes Courtesy of: History1900.com ©

Photo Courtesy of: Historynet.com ©

Aaliyah Dana Haughton,

Where to start? Back in 1994 when the release of “Age ain’t nothing but a number” had the music scene open.. Or could it be the release of “One in a million” in 1996, which FOREVER transformed R&B/Pop sounds PERIOD  ..No..no.. It has to be when you graced the stage of the Apollo.. No matter the memory… Undoubtedly Aaliyah was just that bad! Wearing multiple hats as a Soultress, Dancer, Model, and  Actress.. She had accomplished it all in such a short time, paving the way and becoming a musical inspiration for several different artist whom succeeded after.

Born January 16th 1979 – Untimely passing August 25th, 2001 – I will never forget, middle school age at the time, reading headlines of the stars transition. Not fully understanding life’s processes yet..

Photo Courtesy Of: Aaliyah.com ©

Aaliyah’s smooth tomboy lustrous appeal gave young girls, such as myself growing up, confidence. Also the courage to be who you are no matter how anyone else may perceive you. That aspect alone set her aside from the rest, while watching her evolve into a young woman. All I’m just saying is who didn’t want to immolate Aaliyah?  Not to mention that her music was indeed “Hot Like Fire” 🔥 Including the features! It is hard trying to explain the connection I felt to a woman I barely even personally knew, Her spirit was definitely felt through sound…Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world!!!

“An unexplainable but unforgettable feeling you get when you hear good music that puts you in a particular mode” -Shaddai

Literally I can go on for pages about who she is and why she is just that important!! If you find yourself reading this piece and you are not too familiar with whom Aaliyah may be please I encourage you to do yourself a HUGE favor and get familiar.

I honor & pay homage to this Queen

Happy Bornday Baby Girl,

Sleep In Peace.

© By Shaddai Randolph 2017

Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited.