November 7th, 2024

‘A Change is Gonna Come’: Worship leader determined to keep George Floyd’s memory alive

By: N. L. Preston

HOUSTON — The body has been buried, the movement is far from over and a song written by a local worship leader is sure to live on for ages, signifying the birth of a new generation of fighters.

George Powell, married father of one, is an Austinite who’s been living in Houston for the last 10 years. The national recording artist has made it his mission to use his gift of song to keep George Floyd’s name alive. Early June, Powell released his rendition of Sam Cooke’s “Change is Gonna Come,” which told the story of Floyd, a Houston man who was killed by Minneapolis police in broad daylight, sparking protests around the world. Within days, the song went viral, gaining over 2.8M views and over 80K shares.

African-American News&Issues spoke with the Fallbrook Church worship leader, speaking about the movement, and personal experiences with racism.

Q: When you first saw the video, how did you feel as a black man?

A: I actually could not watch it because I think, immediately, I connected and said, ‘that could have been me.’ When I finally watched the video, it took me into a deep emotional state because you literally watched the life leave him. He urinated on himself. How could any human being do that to someone, especially when people are begging people to stop? By the time I wrote the song over a week later, I had dealt with the anger. My wife actually told me I should sing that song. When I was singing the regular version and singing “I was born by the river,” I started to think about where George Floyd was actually from so I decided to change it up to make it more about his life.

Q: Your daughter is 7 years old, close to the age of George Floyd’s daughter, who says her daddy changed the world. Have you explained to your daughter about the racism in America?

A: We’ve not used black and white with my daughter. She goes to a predominantly white school, so we try to keep some of the innocence without getting into all the black and white. She’s not connected what happened to George Floyd completely, but she does know some of the history of how some white people have treated black people.

Q: Have you ever been called a nigger?

A: Not by a person of non-color. I don’t even know how I would respond.

Q: As a worship leader and a black man of faith, do you see a shift? Do you see what you sang? Do feel a change is really going to come?

A: I think I see the beginning of change. There have been plenty of times before when we’ve had marches, protests and riots, but now we have the world’s attention. George Floyd’s untimely death and the way he died, people and companies are now woke, like Starbucks and Raising Canes. We are finally seeing what I would consider the beginning of real change with people saying ‘Black Lives Matter’ in Mainstream America.

Q: Besides the beautiful song you wrote, what message would you like to share with George Floyd’s family?

A: Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your goodbye. Because the world was allowed inside the service, it helped our message and our movement.

Q: Message to the people?

A: Keep praying, keep the faith and keep our hope strong. We have more reason now to be hopeful than ever.

Powell is a gifted singer, composer and pianist who’s performed for notables such as President Barack Obama, Houston philanthropist Mattress Mack and Boyz II Men.

Over the 4th of July weekend, Powell released a very powerful video, Freedom: A Tribute to George Floyd featuring the NAACP Vice-President (Houston) Bishop James Dixon, American Idol Finalist Vincent Powell (his brother), Father-Son Duo TJ Boyce II & TJ Boyce III, Poet Lyric Shiarnice, and recording artist J Xavier.

The video was shot at the official George Floyd mural in the neighborhood Floyd grew up in and illustrates the message that “Freedom” is still not equal for African Americans.

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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