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R.I.P. Gil Scott Heron

America lost the greatest social and political activist of our time, Gil Scott-Heron, last Friday, May 27.  He was 62.


Such an icon is worth mentioning by the current Administration if only for Scott's brilliant poetry, genius, intelligence, insight, and lyrical ability to express through song what America's people have and still are, going through.

In this piece, Did You Hear What They Said, Scott speaks to war and the men (in this case) who have died in the U.S. military. The images in the video production portray a very grim, but poignant reminder of the conditions of U.S. veterans returning home from war.

"Did you hear what they said", sings Heron.   "They said another brother's dead.  They said he's dead, but he can't be buried.  They said he's dead, but he can't be buried. C'mon, c'mon, c'mon.  This can't be real.  Did you hear about his mother and how she cried?  They said because her only son was dead."



The White House recently celebrated Memorial Day, Poetry At The White House, and has implemented Joining Forces, another initiative that focuses on the First Lady's commitment to military families.

We think the White House should join the millions of Americans who continue to celebrate the life and legacy of one Gil Scott Heron,  (Chicago native, and former D.C. resident) who taught America so much about itself.

So, with that we say thank you Mr. Heron for your contribution to American poetry, music, history, and your unmatchable brillance.  You're worthy of a White House recognition.

To the White House, did you hear what we said?

He's worthy.  Gil Scott-Heron is worthy.
Related
Gil Scott-Heron performs B-Movie.  Politics explained - at its best.

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