In a time when one’s feelings are bruised just reading the news it helps to remember that everything has a cycle. Good times, bad times, war, peace, economic booms and busts, they all take their turn at the wheel.  

In 2017, Jon Batiste released his version of the traditional marching tune, The Battle Hymn of the Republic. Although it’s a beautiful rendition I was puzzled; didn’t that tune originate from the southern side of the Civil War? Why would a Black musician want to re-interpret that particular song?

Think back to 2017. Monuments to Confederate soldiers were being torn down in several states.

In a modern multi-cultural America, the reconciliation of the causes behind the Civil War is a messy process. So is sausage making, but there is hope it will be worth it in the end. It’s challenging and painful to look at the past in a new light. Just ask Canadians struggling with the truth and reconciliation of the treatment of Indigenous Peoples. It hurts. 

In his rendition of the Battle Hymn, Batiste has blended African rhythms, American blues, folk and more. The tune itself becomes a melting pot of sound. In the background there is a mournful wailing which speaks to Batiste’s brilliance. A battle hymn focussed only on marching and victory is selling the supposed glory of war and overlooking the pain and destruction. 

There have been many, many news cycles since The Battle Hymn of the Republic was first written by the abolitionist writer Julia Ward Howe in 1862. As uncomfortable as it may feel, taking ownership for the ugly parts of history contributes to the evolution of culture even if we are marching three steps forward, two back.

Jon Batiste has also reimagined Louis Armstrong’s It’s a Wonderful World. In honour of Black History Month, have a listen to both.

Stay safe everyone.

Anne Milne is an every Sunday blogger.  Facebook or email.