And speaking of a field theory of black music, here's one of its many cornerstones: Move On Up, from Curtis Mayfield's debut album Curtis, released in 1970. In other words, an impeccable performance by a musically prominent and politically conscious figure in African-American history.
Hush now child, and don't you cry
Your folks might understand you, by and by
Just move on up, toward your destination
Though you may find, from time to time, complication
Bite your lip, and take a trip
Though there may be wet road ahead
And you cannot slip
Just move on up, for peace will find
Into the steeple of beautiful people
Where there's only one kind
So hush now child, and don't you cry
Your folks might understand you, by and by
Move on up, and keep on wishing
Remember your dream is your only scheme
So keep on pushing
Take nothing less than the second best
Do not obey, you must keep your say
You can past the test
Just move on up, to a greater day
With just a little faith
If you put your mind to it you can surely do it
Just move on up
Move on up
But move on up
Oh child, but just move on up
But move on up
Move on up
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