Building Community Through Art | Something to Say (1-21-2025)
This episode of the “Something to Say” podcast feature two exciting guests who are pushing the boundaries of art and activism. They discuss important topics like community building, personal empowerment, and social change.
The latest episode of the Something to Say podcast delivers a powerful conversation about the intersection of music, community activism, and cultural pride. Hosted by Mazi Mutafa, the episode features two distinguished guests: Luci Murphy, a celebrated vocalist and social justice advocate, and Ama’d, a rap artist and artist in residence at Project Create. Through their compelling insights and personal stories, the discussion highlights how music can be a transformative tool for community building, personal empowerment, and social change.
Luci Murphy, renowned for her activism and vocal talents, eloquently articulated how music fosters unity and emotional connection. She emphasized the significance of communal singing, explaining,
"Music is so important because it moves people. What you see makes you think, but what you hear makes you feel, and it's the feelings that get you moving."
Murphy described how music breaks down barriers and strengthens communal bonds, stating, "When people sing together, there's a special feeling of unity and good feelings about each other."
Ama’d echoed these sentiments, underscoring the impact of music on young people. As an artist in residence at Project Create, he plays an active role in mentoring aspiring musicians. He reflected,
"I still help out with the songwriting and the music production course that's taught by my teacher, Mr. Dennis Turner. So I still help out, and I am able to see the growth that the youth are making... finding the confidence to find their voice through music."
His dedication highlights the power of music education in nurturing self-expression and resilience among young artists.
Murphy’s long-standing commitment to activism was another focal point of the discussion. She shared her experiences in community organizing, particularly in Latin American solidarity and peace movements. "I have a long history of community activism, especially working with children at risk," she noted. She also emphasized the role of cultural engagement in forging connections:
"It starts with music. Because I know so many people because I sing. And they listen to me and they feel touched and they come up and they talk to me. I wanna connect."
Similarly, Ama’d spoke about the importance of strategic visibility in his music career. He highlighted the need to carefully evaluate opportunities, stating, "First off, just continuing to be visible when I'm taking these gigs and knowing will this gig propel me forward." This insight underscores the challenge of sustainability in the arts while stressing the importance of community involvement.
Both speakers emphasized the role of cultural pride in self-empowerment. Murphy passionately addressed the impact of colonial indoctrination, arguing for the recognition of African languages as full-fledged languages rather than mere dialects. "We should also call Yoruba and other languages from Africa, their languages, and give them the same respect," she insisted.
Ama’d expanded on the idea of self-worth and empowerment through his artistic philosophy. Referencing hip-hop’s influence, he stated, "I got pride, purpose, and power, and your boy doing just fine." He also reflected on the importance of knowledge in artistic growth, saying,
"Reading is my fuel. It is the seeds to my artistry. Without reading, you wouldn't get you for the stars because it helps me to think critically."
His words reflect the necessity of continuous learning in shaping an artist’s voice and message.
Throughout the discussion, Murphy and Ahmad reaffirmed the indispensable role of music and art in social transformation. From fostering unity and intercommunity trust to challenging societal norms, their perspectives demonstrate the power of artistic expression in activism. As Murphy insightfully put it,
"Music attracts people, you know, it makes them stop and listen. If I put the ideas in a song, I think I'm more effective than if I try to put it in a speech."
The Something to Say podcast continues to be a platform for critical conversations that bridge music, culture, and activism. By amplifying voices like Luci Murphy and Ama’d, it showcases how the arts can inspire change and empower communities. As this episode reminds us, music is more than entertainment—it is a catalyst for meaningful transformation.
Something to Say is recorded live on Washington, DC’s Radio Station WPFW 89.3 and is produced by Words Beats & Life Inc.
