It was a joyous occasion last night as BET celebrated the power and beauty of women of color during its Black Girls Rock! broadcast. By the time that Lalah Hathaway, Faith Evans and Fantasia took the stage, it was a downright celebration. Taking part in the "Pillars of Justice" tribute medley, the ladies proceeded to give a clinic in vocal takedowns, bringing the audience to their feet. Lalah was up first with a stirring performance of her father, the late Donny Hathaway's, classic song "Someday We'll All Be Free." She set the tone of what was to follow as she effortlessly moved the crowd with the poignant protest song.
Faith then followed suit, performing J. Cole's tribute to Michael Brown and Eric Garner, "Be Free." The emotionally-charged song took on a whole new meaning in Faith's able hands, becoming an anthem not only for the injustice afforded to Brown and Garner, but to black women in general.
Fantasia then brought it on home, promptly taking everyone to church with her electrifying performance of "Mary Don't You Weep." While both Lalah and Faith before her gave beautifully restrained performances, Fantasia let it all hang out as she flexed her gospel roots in what was easily one of the evening's many highlights. The best part about the medley was that it took three very different singers and allowed them to showcase their mind-blowing talents without it seeming like a competition. Each was able to prove why they are considered some master vocalists, leaving viewers feeling inspired and, most importantly, proud as we remembered one of the many reasons that Black girls do, indeed, rock.
