Why Is ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ Called the Black National Anthem?

“Lift every voice and sing….Till earth and heaven ring” is a song full of hope. For over a hundred years, this hymn has held significant importance in American history. The hymn with lyrics is also known as the Black National Anthem. If you are wondering why, there is a rich history behind it.

With time, the NFL and other important sports events started off their big games with Black National Anthem. This time again, the Super Bowl LVIII, featuring the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers showdown, is going to play the anthem in the pregame event. Here’s everything about this tradition that continues to live on.

The hymn is a voice of hope for the Blacks!

The “Lift every voice and sing” was penned during a crucial period in American history as Jim Crow laws replaced slavery, and African-Americans sought their identity. James Weldon Johnson, an author and activist, wrote the poem in the 1900s, and his brother, John Rosamond Johnson, added the music.

The music was performed in 1900 by a 500-student choir in a school, whose principal was Weldon Johnson, marking President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. Later on, in 1905, Booker T. Washington endorsed it, and by 1919, it became the official NAACP song. Over time, it evolved into a crucial symbol during the Civil Rights movement, frequently sung during meetings and gatherings.

According to Smithsonian magazine, this hymn “sets a tone of reverence and gratitude, celebrating the American journey of Black people, honoring the selfless sacrifices of ancestors, and acknowledging an inheritance of indomitability and resilience.” Its presence on the Wattstax stage, elevated the celebration of Black pride, making it a cornerstone hymn in the cultural and historical tapestry of the African-American experience.

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This hymn then continued to be adopted by multiple events, and hence, it started being considered “The Black National Anthem.” The NFL also adopted the spiritual song that has inspired generations to share a historic significance.

Super Bowl LVIII will also echo the spirit of unity!

“Lift Every Voice and Sing” rose in popularity at public and sports events after George Floyd’s incident in 2020. Last year, before the Super Bowl kicked off, Sheryl Lee Ralph performed the Black National Anthem for the first time.

This year, at Super Bowl LVIII, Grammy-winning R&B singer Andra Day will be performing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Additionally, Reba McEntire will be performing the national anthem, and Post Malone is prepared to sing “America the Beautiful.” Fans are also buckled up for Usher’s Super Bowl half-time performance today at Sin City’s Allegiant Stadium.

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