“To Be Young, Gifted and Black,” released in 1969, is one of Nina Simone’s most celebrated songs, carrying a message of pride, empowerment, and hope for Black youth. Written in collaboration with poet Weldon Irvine, the song was inspired by the life and work of Simone’s close friend, playwright Lorraine Hansberry. “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” became an anthem of the civil rights movement, uplifting Black communities and encouraging young people to embrace their heritage and potential.

About The Song

• Lyrics Interpretation: The lyrics of “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” celebrate the beauty and strength of Black identity. Lines like “We must begin to tell our young / There’s a world waiting for you” offer encouragement and support, acknowledging the challenges faced by Black youth while affirming their worth and potential. The refrain, “To be young, gifted and Black / Oh, what a lovely, precious dream,” serves as both a declaration of pride and a call to embrace one’s heritage. The song is a message of self-love and empowerment, reminding Black youth of their inherent value and ability to achieve greatness.
• Songwriting Inspiration: Nina Simone was inspired to write “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” after the death of her friend, Lorraine Hansberry, the playwright best known for A Raisin in the Sun. Hansberry’s works often addressed themes of racial identity and social justice, and Simone wanted to honor her legacy by creating a song that spoke directly to Black youth. The song’s title is taken from one of Hansberry’s unfinished plays, and it reflects Simone’s desire to provide a sense of hope and pride to a generation struggling against racism and discrimination.
• Cultural Impact: “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” quickly became an anthem for the civil rights movement and a source of inspiration for Black communities. It was widely embraced by activists and educators, who saw it as a powerful tool for instilling pride and confidence in young Black people. The song’s message of self-affirmation resonated deeply during a time of significant social and political upheaval, and it has continued to be celebrated as a symbol of Black empowerment and resilience.
• Song Legacy: “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” remains one of Nina Simone’s most enduring and influential songs. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Aretha Franklin and Donny Hathaway, each adding their own interpretation to the song’s powerful message. The song’s influence extends beyond music, as it has been used in educational settings and cultural celebrations to promote Black pride and history. Its timeless message of empowerment ensures that it will continue to inspire future generations.
• Live Performances: Nina Simone’s live performances of “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” were known for their emotional intensity and deep sincerity. She often introduced the song by speaking directly to the audience, emphasizing the importance of its message and encouraging listeners to take pride in their identity. The song’s stirring melody and powerful lyrics, combined with Simone’s passionate delivery, made it a highlight of her live shows and a moment of connection and solidarity with her audiences.

“To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is more than just a song—it’s a profound statement of identity, pride, and hope. Nina Simone’s heartfelt lyrics and powerful delivery have made it a timeless anthem that continues to uplift and inspire those who seek to celebrate their heritage and embrace their potential. Its legacy as a song of empowerment ensures that it will remain a beacon of hope and strength for generations to come.

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Lyric

Young, gifted and black
Oh what a lovely precious dream
To be young, gifted and black
Open your heart to what I mean
In the whole world you know
There’s a million boys and girls
Who are young, gifted and black
And that’s a fact!
You are young, gifted and black
We must begin to tell our young
There’s a world waiting for you
Yours is the quest that’s just begun
When you feel really low
Yeah, there’s a great truth that you should know
When you’re young, gifted and black
Your soul’s intact
To be young, gifted and black
Oh, how I’ve longed to know the truth
There are times when I look back
And I am haunted by my youth
Oh but my joy of today
Is that we can all be proud to say
To be young, gifted and black
Is where it’s at
Is where it’s at
Is where it’s at