John Rosamond Johnson
The powerful history behind ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing,’ known as the Black National Anthem
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” has inspired countless people, particularly within the Black community. It is widely regarded as “The Black National Anthem.” In 1900, NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson wrote the hymn, while his brother, John Rosamond Johnson (1873–1954), composed the music. The song was first performed publicly in Jacksonville, Florida, to celebrate President…
