MLK Day event explores music’s role in civil rights
Renato Milone
Renato Milone, an assistant professor at Berklee College of Music, addressed Thayer’s Middle School and Upper School students Jan. 17 as part of the Academy’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration. The talented artist and educator spoke from the heart in a presentation entitled “The Sound of Change: From Blues to Whitney — A Musical Journey Through Civil Rights.”
Milone reflected upon the legacy of King, the influence of African American music, and the impact of Black artists on the music industry. He explored how music has both shaped and supported the civil rights movement. Much of his talk focused on blues legend Muddy Waters and singer-songwriter Etta James, two of many Black artists of that generation who were paid flat fees for their work rather than being given royalties, essentially robbing them of their financial due. But Milone also discussed the progress made in that area, paying special attention to the later critical and commercial success of the great Whitney Houston.
In introducing Milone, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Matt Ghiden reminded students that music has always played a part in the civil rights movement. As an example, he offered the famous story of gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, who performed at the 1963 March on Washington prior to King’s address. It was Jackson who said, “Tell them about the dream, Martin,” which led King to depart from his scripted address and recite the now historic “I have a dream …” portion of his speech.
“Music and activism have always been intertwined, especially during the civil rights movement,” Ghiden said.