When intent isn't enough for some
I'm gonna make this as brief as I can. I have always resonated with and have been deeply moved by your song Dear Black Son. I was at the show in Denver recently and told you that I am also a performer who does an act to that piece and I use it to raise funds for Black causes. I have received nothing but love from audience members at shows but I recently got accepted for a show that caused a lot of issues and some pushback from people who had never seen my performance and do not know your, or my, story. They assumed I was doing a song written by a Black man to his son. Even after being told briefly your history, as well as that I have Black nephews that I do the act in dedication of, and that I don't keep any of the money I get paid, they still felt it was not my place to do the performance and so the producers eventually asked me to do a different act for the show. I'm sure you have, but was there ever a time where people didn't know your full story and judged your work unfairly? Have you ever felt like you are being rejected by the very community you're trying to uplift and support, simply because you're white? If so how did you handle that situation?
The Elder Queen
This is a four part question so I apologize in advance. The Cafeteria Worker (The Elder Queen) that you Mention in The Opening, & from your song “PRAY FOR ME” A.) Did you get to, or have you had the chance to thank her for the positive impact she had in your life in developing who you are as a person? B.) Is she aware of the tremendous impact that she had in your life? C.&D.) Is she still with us today? And if so is she still a part of your life?
Missing Concert - Covid
My wife and I have been fans for a long time, and we were so excited that Brother Ali's Traveler's Tour was stopping in Columbus - we live in Lima, OH. Unfortunately, during a trip back home (to Cleveland) our family got Covid. We're feeling better, but are still testing positive. That means we'll miss the show tonight. Wondering if there's any way to exchange those VIP tickets for another show. We were really looking forward to finally seeing you in person!
Envy
After listening to Dr Ebony an you saying that both you an your wife listen to her podcast. I couldn't help but wonder if your wife ever gets envious or jealous of all these people you get to talk to on the podcast? Or is it just part of the territory for her having a famous husband?