Artwork by Deborah Singletary
Ella jumps
Sarah’s sassy
Billie thumps
Carmen’s brassy
Gloria croons
Aretha’s queen
Gladys booms
Diana’s supreme!
Nat’s king
Jimmy plays
Marvin sings
John sways
Miles blows
Nancy’s mellow
Ray crows
Patti bellows!
Jazz strokes
Gospel provokes
Calypso whines
Reggae shines
Blues soothes
R&B smoothes
Rap grooves
Music makes me want to move!
Learned to listen at Daddy’s feet
Where he would listen to different beats
Learned to appreciate with Daddy’s ear
All kinds of music I would hear.
Learned that music was in his heart
That’s how my love for music got its start.
Copyright © 2004 by Rolanda T. Pyle
From the poetry and prose collection, Finally by Rolanda T. Pyle
A tribute to the music my father listened to, especially JAZZ! Also a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, Billie Holiday, Carmen McCrae, Gloria Lynne, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Diana Ross, Nat King Cole, Jimmy Smith, Marvin Gaye, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Nancy Wilson, Ray Charles and Patti LaBelle, who I listened to as I grew up.
The magic of music is undeniable, especially when shared with those we love. I love the rhythm of this poem.
Top: Deborah Singletary
Ella Fitzgerald as a Spirit Guide, 2005
Mixed Media on board
5 x 9 inches
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