Podcast Music - Juesel Ryan

Cynthia Arrivo, an English singer, songwriter, and actress, played Harriet Tubman in the movie Harriet. She also covered a song from the film's soundtrack called Stand Up. The song represents hope, strength, and inspiration, and has been used as an anthem during protests and in TikTok videos. It has become a symbol of the Black Lives Matter movement. Cynthia's soulful voice evokes emotion and captivates listeners. Stand Up truly makes an impact. Good afternoon, everyone. I hope you're having a blessed evening. Today, we'll be answering the question, can music truly make a difference? To me, there's a lot of songs we can talk about, but today, I'm going to just try and prioritize one. So recently, I learned about this amazing artist. As some of you may not know, born and raised in London, UK, Cynthia Arrivo is an English singer, songwriter, and actress. In 2019, she leaped by starring in her first lead role in which she played Harriet Tubman in the movie Harriet. In this film, Cynthia Arrivo depicts the story of an American abolitionist, Harriet Tubman, in which she expresses her upbringing in slavery and pursuits slash escape to freedom. Cynthia Arrivo not only does an amazing job portraying Tubman in this film, but also covers a song from the film's soundtrack called Stand Up. Now, before I continue down a long list of why I love this song, I want to play a little bit of it. So here is Stand Up by Cynthia Arrivo from the movie Harriet. Oh, I got eyes in the back of my head. Just in case I had to run. I do what I can when I can, when I can for my people. Well, the clouds roll back and the stars fill the night. That's when I'm gonna stand up. Take my people with me. Together we are going to a brand new home. Far across the river. When you hear freedom calling, calling me to answer. Gonna keep on keeping on. I can feel it in my bones. Every time I hear this song, it gives me chills. Once again, that was Stand Up by Cynthia Arrivo. From the Billboard Music Awards, Cynthia Arrivo expresses the theme and inspiration behind the song, which was to signify hope, strength, inspiration and kindness towards others. The repetition of Stand Up and Keep On Keeping On emphasizes the need for endurance and resilience in the face of adversity. This song was a call to arms for activists everywhere. On the social media platform TikTok, this song has been used continuously in recreational videos, and people are using it to express other protests or political crises that also needs to be addressed. This song has been played over many videos during the BLM protests and against gun violence. People are using this song as an anthem as they march down the streets, as they express their despair and need for change. This song has been used throughout videos of contemporary performances as well. During the Shelter Island BLM, after the march, many gathered to speak and sing songs. Many voices were spoken and heard. People ranged from students, residents, little children, and just random passerbyers who came to speak about their experiences. Out of the song sung, one of them was Stand Up. This song was not only a tribute to Harriet Tubman, but also paved the way for the Black Lives Matter movement that arose after the death of George Floyd. Another thing I want to point out is just how captivating and soulful her voice sounds. You can just hear the ounce of pain and strife that Cynthia is feeling for Harriet and the Black community. Whether you are old, young, or of a different race, just hearing this song brings about emotion from the audience. And it is truly amazing. Once again, that was Stand Up by Cynthia Avivio. And if you have a song that you believe made an impact, be sure to call in. We would love to hear your opinions. Thank you.