By Peggy Oliver
 

Let’s face the facts about the state of the non-profit art institutions in this day and age. The economy has hit this area hard as if most people need to be reminded. But while this matter is becoming more of a reality, everyone could still use a little music, dance or some form of the arts to inspire and lift up our souls through troublesome times. The Black Academy of Arts & Letters in Dallas, Texas was founded in 1977 by Curtis King; producing over one-hundred programs in theatre, film, literary and other disciplines in African, African-American and Caribbean culture. Through the years, regional and national talent (Melba Moore, Malcolm Jamal-Warner, Rance Allen, etc) have contributed to TBAAL productions. In 1987, TBAAL raised funds via a live concert recording by Eartha Kitt entitled, My Way: Musical Tribute To Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.  Now with TBAAL in crucial need of keeping their programs afloat, many of the Dallas region’s top voices and urban superstars Ann Nesby and Ruben Studdard took over one fall night in 2010 for another live recording fundraiser.

 

Medicine – Live at The Black Academy of Arts & Letters (TBAAL) pools all these talents, especially one musician in particular-- Sam ‘Shake’ Anderson -- whom is the primary songwriting glue for Medicine. From soulful inspiration, to fiery praise and worship and commentary on the modern day church, Medicine covers a lot of ground. Anderson’s warm and husky voice conveys believability on “Believe” about putting faith and trust in God in full motion. Anderson is joined by recording artist Taylor Pace and youth pastor Lloyd Spence in a lively interaction on “Living Word.” In a bit of food for thought, “PTYHOMP (Please Take Your Hand Out of My Pocket)” by Andrea Wallace (Myron Butler & Levi) provides a tongue in cheek yet interesting viewpoint regarding those oppressors that sometimes infiltrate the church family. Saxophonist Joseph Vincelli and the eighty-voice TBAAL choir sweeten the atmosphere with a jazz vibe for “When God Sings Over You.” “Deeper Righteousness” features Rick James (the former Star Search and Showtime at the Apollo performer) blazing the worship platform with a jazzy touch. The ten minute “Bask in the Presence of the Lord” showcases Brenda Ellis from T.D. Jakes’ The Potter’s House demonstrating the tenacity of a fiery preacher and her longevity for praise. Nesby has a natural ability to handle anything within all urban genres; whether a soulful ballad, an funky dance jam or leading one to the throne room for “What Would You Have Me Do.” Ruben is right at home with his velvety baritone for two tracks. “Medicine for Someone Else” echoes the sentiments of Curtis Mayfield’s “People Get Ready,” while “Teach Me To Love” is a always needed lesson in patience and giving God the glory instead of self in the daily Christian walk.

 

While there is a lot of enjoyable celebratory pieces and power packed praise on Medicine - Live at TBAAL, there are a couple of shortcomings. The biggest disappointment belongs to the eighties’ R&B stars Yarbrough & Peoples’ clichéd ridden performance of “Jump Till You Feel Something.” But overall, Medicine – Live at TBAAL is a well-thought out, meaningful cause for raising awareness of this non-profit institution who continues to bless the urban community -- historically and artistically -- despite the economic obstacles.

 

Peggy Oliver

The Urban Music Scene