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Hymn To Portia White

from Constitution by The Afro-Métis Nation

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about

Celebrating the remarkable achievements of Canadian contralto, Portia May White (1911-1968).

lyrics

HYMN TO PORTIA WHITE
Words by George Elliott Clarke, music by Chris White

Portia, oh Portia, oh Portia White Voice like silver and skin like night You made each song a flaming dart
A meteor to blaze each heart
Born for glory, never forget
The day’s not done when sun has set
Behind you glimmers His-to-ry Before you glitters Des-ti-ny
Come out of Truro, Lil Zion
Where Love is pure con-tra-diction White-robed Baptists face white-sheet Klan Both preaching love for God and man
Stroll through The Marsh, hear water speak New Testament Hebrew and Greek
Raise the church roof, raise it up high Catch Caesar Jesus stride that sky!
Stand statue-proud in deep, cold snow Tell Nova Scotia, you must go
Sail to Cuba, fly to Brazil
Entrance the crowds, enchant and thrill
Take to New York, hear critics praise Your voice that sets stone hearts ablaze Conquer London, and quake the Queen
Beauty like yours, there’s never been
By and by, you lay down burdens Sweet Jesus heals all your hurtin’
You go home to our Lord, clear and free – African Baptist prophecy!
Oh Coloured gal, our very own Down-to-earth genius at God’s Throne You’re our glory, we, each freed slave –
The North Star is your lustrous grave
Portia, oh Portia, oh Portia White Voice like silver and skin... like... night

credits

from Constitution, released April 25, 2019
George Elliott Clarke - Lead vocals/spoken word
Chris White - Lead vocals, Guitar
John Showman - Violin
Ken Whiteley - Bass

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The Afro-Métis Nation image

The Afro-Métis Nation Ontario

George Elliott Clarke, O.C., has served as Poet Laureate of Parliament and Poet Laureate of Toronto. Shelley Hamilton is a two-time winner of the ANSMA 'Artist of the Year' Award. Russ Kelley and Chris White are performing songwriters and recording artists. 'Sugar Plum' Croxen has performed and toured since his teens. These artists honour their Black and Indigenous ancestors though this work. ... more

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