From: Shakur Afrikanus
This Blackprint poem by George Edward Tait, one of the forefathers of spoken Afrocentricity and poet laureate of sacred Harlem, is the essence of Maat and soul; optimal metaphor and symbol of African cultural agency. The poem-The Black Brigade- belongs
in the poetic circle of Léon Gontian Damas' Pigments, Margaret Walker's For My People, Aimé Césaire's Notes to a Native Land and Langston Hughes' Good Morning Revolution. The poem is the one, the all, the everything dat wuh awright wid we. |
From: Sekou Molefi Baako
When I celebrate this powerful work of prose, it takes me back to the times of its origin, 1975 - after the Revolution of the streets had ceased or made news any longer, and we were floundering
waiting for another leader to lead us to freedom. It was, however, a time when Revolution was still in full force through literature and the arts. Brother Tait captured the essence of what was building in my heart as I truly began to understand what was
really happening in the world upon my return from a year in Vietnam, several years earlier.
I was an evening student at Baruch College and working full time. My awareness had piqued and African knowledge and books were my new companions. The Black Brigade took me on a clandestine night mission by 27 black revolutionaries set out to correct the ills
of Black America. I was reminded of earlier black heroes who made their mark on history, inventors Lewis H. Latimer, Granville T. Woods and Elijah McCoy, liberators Marcus Garvey, Cinque, Hannibal, Gabriel Prosser and Nat Turner, reminded of our Egyptian
royalty Tutankhamen; reminded of the liberation colors red, black and green and finally of the revolutionary role of jazz through Trane and Bird. Yes, the revolution was successful, and the world has never been quite the same. Brother Tait reminded me to
reread The Spook Who Sat By The Door and listen to Gil Scott-Heron's "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised," and how successful a revolution could/should be. When I first read The Black Brigade, I rode on a wave of excitement as I saw their mission unfold in
my mind and in the last lines heard the sounds of Trane and Bird as the musicians dispersed into the night.
This powerful poem still serves as a reminder of the role poetry played and still plays in the scheme of things. This poem is timeless...
Right On! Write on! |
From: Amiri Baraka
Tait's "The Black Brigade" is one of the now nearly legendary works that corresponded to the Black Arts Cultural Revolution that emerged in the 60's and continued as part of that era that Mao Tse Tsung described as "Revolution Is The Main Trend In The World
Today!" !
Important to see such works again and again to resurrect the spirit and determined struggle of that time, so that we continue the fight to bring it back again! |
From: Sonia Barnett
After thirty years, the powerful poem “The Black Brigade” by George Edward Tait emphasizes brotherhood and the power of fearless Black men armed with the knowledge of our past – and revolutionary only to make us stronger as a people and ready for change in
this land.
The message of the poem remains relevant for today’s youth and should be shared as often as possible. The lyrics, rhythm and metaphors used throughout speak definitively of hope now and for the future.
Congratulations George, as we celebrate with you the 30th anniversary of "The Black Brigade." |
From: Herb Boyd
Not too long ago a musician friend approached me about collaborating on a project that would be a kind of rap on Black history. He had been listening to a lot of rap music and had heard nothing that was both
compelling in style and lyrics, and resonating with the (R)evolution of Black history and culture. I think I'm going to put him in touch with George Edward Tait. The Black Brigade may be just what he needs to complete the project. And even if it isn't to his
liking, it certainly gets a nod from me, and I mean a strong, meaningful nod--a nod to one of the world/s finest writers, poets, and
musicians. While I'm partial to Tait's "I Am A Black Man," this poem is imbued with some of the same feeling, yet delivering even more content and power, particularly the power of retribution. Of the sages of the ages, G.E.T. has a place, a most pivotal,
riveting place. |
From: John Watusi Branch
George Edward Tait's "The Black Brigade" has stood the test of time, and by all
means is a Black Poetic Classic. A poetic masterpiece that immerses one in rhythms
of revolutionary metaphors and jargon, while blossoming out of an African American music
tradition. |
From: Ralph Carter
"When I first heard you recite,"The Black Brigade" and then on that same day, I purchased, my royal orange golden scroll, of "The Black Brigade," I must confess, that my consciousness exploded and expanded. I knew from that day that I, Ralph Carter, would
forever be a loyal George Edward Tait, devotee.
In the last phase of my teenage life, in the 1980s, no contemporary consciousness Afrikan male poets, writers; other than our Brothers: Gil Scott-Heron, James Baldwin, Sam Greenlee and The Last Poets, could move me to transformation, as your poem, Brother
George Edward Tait, "The Black Brigade," did.
Like them, YOU, Brother George, are an advanced soul, a super being and in fact a living GOD. In you, I saw a reflection of my GOD self and the dormant wounded Afrikan manhood and womanhood of us ALL. Brother George, through, "The Black Brigade," YOU
restored and repaired a collective consciousness and psyche in Afrikan manhood and womanhood; once robbed from the GLOBAL Afrikan people. For indeed WE, had ALL been wounded and WE were those warriors who had been collectively crushed over the centuries and
then resurrected through the POWER of your words.
Brother George, as I breathed in your words, "The Black Brigade," became absorbed into my consciousness, my subconsciousness, my superconsciousness and would become a part of my cellular being. I read your poem "The Black Brigade," nearly every day, for TEN
consecutive years. My world view was forever, healthily transformed. Your poem saved my life and "The Black Brigade," gave voice, validation, vindication, and victory, to ALL the fallen warriors and ALL the Afrikan people known and unknown, who ever struck a
blow for Afrikan FREEDOM. Without hesitation, Brother George, I must also confess, that the ninth unit remains my most endeared squad."
Therefore, as WE congratulate YOU on the 30th Anniversary of this masterpiece, this treasure of a poem, keep in mind that it is still among your highest testaments and gifts of Brotherhood and Sisterhood; of nonjudgmental, eternal love and respect. It is my
honor to call you Brother.
Thank you for writing "The Black Brigade."
Yours in Progress |
From: Ave Maria Cross
It is eminently clear that George Edward Tait is a spoken word artist who represents African-American poetic genius at its best -- he
teases your mind with his intellect and captivates your soul with harmonious eloquence. The Black Brigade offers insight into the heart of a Black man who is a master of counterpoint as he juxtaposes a seamless tie between an exciting adventure tale that
segues into the art of jazz improvisation. A powerful work of art filled with passionate intensity.
Peace and Progress |
From: Baba Herman Ferguson
Dear Brother George,
I am honored to be able to make a statement about your powerful poem "The Black Brigade". Essentially it is the blue print for the liberation of our Black Nation. It has become my personal creed and I have instructed that it be read when I make my
transition to the ancestors.
Free The Land! |
From: Layding Kaliba
"The Black Brigade" is a blood and guts metaphor, a poetic call to arms. During the nineteen seventies most writers feared to whisper the words, armed struggle. The poem "The Black Brigade" grabbed fear by the balls and did a death dance on its grave. Truly
a revolutionary classic. |
From: Kaba Hiawatha Kamene
Comments Viewed Through A Black Light Concerning The Thirtieth Anniversary Of The Creation Of “The Black Brigade.”
Much praise is due George Edward Tait for his eternally timed metaphorical drama entitled, “The Black Brigade”. His prophetic call to arms of Africa’s children is appropriate today, in 2005, as it was in the spring of 1975, when it first called the troops to
active duty. Each and every warrior was needed on the battlefield then, as now. In 1975, when libation was poured and the spiritual forces were first summoned by Brother George Edward Tait, many twists and turns were impacting Africa’s children worldwide.
There are a number of bullets I would like to highlight among many interesting points made by Brother George Edward Tait,
- Libation called on the Past (Ancestors), to act in the Present (Objective to be fulfilled), to impact the Future (Outcome).
- Utilizing the number 27 as the trinity of trinities – 3X3X3 – 3 to the third power. Although 27 warriors is not a large fighting force, victory comes from the quality of commitment, rather than just pure quantity.
- In its process of becoming, the mythological legend has a series of components that come in 3’s
-1) The Challenge
2) The Response to the Challenge
3) The Result of the Response
-1) That which Enslaves
2) Action that liberates
3) State of Freedom
-1) The Individuals who wish to Oppress
2) The Individuals who wish to Overcome Oppression
3) The Ancestors who are Free
- The Essence of the legend is circular…never-ending
The Black Brigade can be read from beginning to end, as well as, from the end to the beginning. The nature of the story remains the same and the story line becomes eternal and is morally applicable to any group who are going through a similar experience.
Bullets
- There is a clear enemy with a power to be destroyed, overcome and replaced with a righteous, balanced, natural order. Looking at its trinity, there is a force, a location, and an ancestor who contributed to the force.
Force
Energy
Transportation
Communication
industry and Industrialist
Economy
Military |
Location of Force
Generators
Water (piers, ports, and docks)
Roads and Rails
Airways
Factories, Mills and Plants
Gold, Stocks and Money
Arms and Ammunition |
Ancestor
Lewis Latimer
Cinque
Granville T. Woods
Granville T. Woods
Elijah McCoy
King Tutankhamen
Gabriel Prosser |
- George Edward Tait also clarifies who are not the target, the police and Europeans, in general, although they might appear to be the most likely,.
- While major human ancestors are called upon, none are more important than Nature, Ra (Fire), Shu (Air), Geb (Earth) and Nun (Water).
- The Black Brigade began with their shadows stretching long and ended with their shadows growing big. You can only cast a shadow when you stand in the light.
In reading and analyzing this literary masterpiece, we find it as powerfully applicable to conditions today, as when Malcolm X uttered those fateful words, “Chickens have come home to roost.” Because of today’s sophisticated theater of war, the Black
Brigade’s strategies must be precise, concise, powerful and artistic. As we celebrate this analogical myth, we invite, invoke and involve the Cosmic Spirits of the seen and unseen Universe to make themselves known.
Let the next thirty years make it possible to make it possible for the generations yet unborn to recite the Black Brigade’s Ra-activation and Ra-union; One within the All and the All within One. Our children will answer this call highlighting their victory
of Ma’at over Isfet (Harmony over No Harmony). As we speak of the Black Brigade, allow our Ancestral Collective Unconscious to use us as their instruments to play a Ra-demption song. a Ra’s-Erection song. Let the Band play on…Congratulations Brother George
Edward Tait… It isn’t over ‘til we win!
Hotep (Peace).
Kemetically,
Your Brother in Our Victory, |
From: Kamau Jah Jah Khalfani
The poem "The Black Brigade" clings to our most sacred tradition. It is a transmission of instruction carried to those that were no where near at it's creation.
It is a formal set of marching orders for those that have chosen the path of revolution. Any slave that reads it is forced to react to it.
The poet is not just a speaker of words...the poet is perhaps one of God's greatest gifts...the poet is an inspiration designed to impassion one to such a degree that one is forced to act...
George Edward Tait is a poet's poet because he is not writing words. He is capturing a reflection of life and allowing those who were not there to witness it at a later date. We encourage everyone to make
this a staple in their home, school and, office.
The Black Brigade is my personal favorite because it is telling us of what is to come. It is an organizing document. It is a tool of seperation...seperating the cowards from the brave ones. It is a thing of
beauty offering a description of our discipline...our beauty and our bravery.
In this, the 30th year celebration we in The School Of African Philosophy are proud to have George Edward Tait as our Poet Laureate. Congratulations George...We salute you. |
From: Sekou Kwame
I can remember clearly the first time that I heard George Edward Tait recite his revolutionary poem “The Black Brigade." There I was in 1982 at one of his 360 nights of Black Words for a Wednesday Night in
Harlem.
I could not escape being part of “The Black Brigade” as George acting as an African Liberator poetically gave me his thoughts on an eventual means for freeing the people with Jazz. I have not been the same after that night. “The Black Brigade” will be a
classic for many generations to come. |
From: Tony Mitchelson
The urgency of a poem to take aim at conditions,
past to present, is always noteworthy and imposing.
Today’s volley is not whether “The Black Brigade” has braced a period of time, but how do we lament the years between it’s outswell?
Should we Blues coat it’s red whorl
rooted so deeply in our past - churning so strongly
at our souls for thirty years?
On the real Blackboard, where should we ascribe advance? After all, the point thrusting out of bitter soil remains: The breaking of the chains.
In a year filled with natural and unnatural disasters, we watch folks in New Orleans being fed like straw into gold producing machines generated by pirates of industry. We watch the lives of our people being shred into mulch to featherbed a profit for the
rich - when all they beseeched is return of home and foundation.
In the creep of one to thirty we have seen our children misshaped by educational neglect and social decay. The labored and humbled have scuffed on same scorching surface throughout these numbing years. Media gurus in ear-popping buildings try to convince us
sound trickle relief exists.
The frailty and needs of our people remain as constant as the clang of the stock exchange bell on Wall Street. The haunting shadows of the hungry and homeless look no different today than the frames of the 1970’s.
So a poem drips African colors, heroes, and numerology into the air.
A fiery tale moans from the earth of our ancestors on 25th of May.
Change is charged with the glint of flames, thunder and collapse.
Life is re-tuned with bellows, blares, peals and wails.
A band of Monks orchestrate a world order symphony.
May sound like chaos to the tumbling few.
For those who know and tap time -
Modulations feed risings.
Brother Tait, best to you on the 30th anniversary of your poem!
Tony Mitchelson |
From: S.J. Morris
The day I heard George Edward Tait recite "The Black Brigade", I was "endarkened" with a new vision of hope for continuing the work in the community that is necessary to change the devastating
conditions that our people suffer daily. This poem is truly inspirational and should be required for memorization by every Black high school student. Tait's writing scholarship is exquisite. Not only have I used his poem to teach the mechanics of poetry
writing; but, I have also used it to teach my students about commitment, unity, the system of racism, our struggle against it and the kind of courage we must garner in order to liberate our people. Thank you George for following your creative path and thank
you ancestors for giving us George! |
From: Duma Ndlovu
One of the inspirations for me, living in Harlem and working in that community for almost 15 years was the continued power of some of the poets of the Harlem era and the uptown poets. One of the more moving pieces, that has stayed in my mind ever since is
George Edward Tait's THE BLACK BRIGADE. As a South African exile who had left his home, Tait's work was one of those that kept the fires within me and helped me cope with life away from home. As we celebrate 30 years of the existence of the piece, may it
continue to influence generations and bring out more young Black poets with fire in their eyes. |
From: Ngoma
The more things change, the more they stay the same. Tait's metaphors are just as poignant now as they were 30 yrs ago. Giving us a reminder of what still needs to be considered. |
From: Abiodun Oyewole of The Last Poets
The Black Brigade is one of the most compelling pieces of poetry ever written by an artist. It juxtaposes our music {Jazz in this case} with a revolution. The way the poem is constructed, it meticulously breaks down the revolution socially, economically and
metaphysically. The poem creates a total environment of change that gets the listener or reader caught up in the adventurous activity of insurrection. Then cleverly at the end the audience discovers it was just another band "getting down" on their gig.
I personally have always viewed this poem as a classic mainly because of its creativity, but even more because Jazz itself is a revolution. |
From: Roger Parris
THE BLACK BRIGADE is a cautionary and lyrical ode that George Edward Tait has crafted with rhythmic structure and precision. You hear the warriors marching
cadence and feel their revolutionary zeal. THE BLACK BRIGADE is a stirring testimony to those BROTHERS & SISTERS who came before me and those who will remain after I am gone who have defended us and will continue to
defend our NATIONHOOD and our very EXISTENCE. |
From: Louis Reyes Rivera
George Edward Tait, Harlem's own poet laureate, long ago gave us The Black Brigade, a poem that has earned its place inside the canon of African American mythology. It is both a tribute and a call to action, with a full regard for both. Written 30 years ago,
it is considered by many as the poetic anthem of the Black Nationalist Movement. A heroic poem, full of the sterner stuff that speaks directly to condition and aspiration, with neither the mincing of words or an abrogation to poetry. Its format, a series of
quatrains composed in paired couplets, is a definitive, stylistic forerunner of both Rap and Hip Hop. The standard seven-to-ten syllable line peculiar to a British/American rhyme scheme is extended here into the more musically Afro-centered use of anywhere
from 12 to 17 syllables. Thus, it achieves that polyrhythmic surge peculiar to African poetics. The music comes right at you, but equally significant are the allusional shout-outs to both political and conventional heroes, warriors and inventors alike, all
of which serves as metaphor to the ever present possibility within the grasp of every individual. |
From: Sheila V. Robinson
‘The Black Brigade is a masterpiece! A beautiful work of art! Your unique style and ability to paint a colorful and action-filled picture, with words, is awesome!
Coming from a soft spoken brother, it cautions us not to take for granted those with a quiet demeanor. Through the art of writing, you make your voice heard.
This poem is powerfully and effectively portrayed, without profanity: a model for us all. You are blessed with a special gift. We are blessed to have you in our midst.
The Black Brigade is, without doubt, the work of a genius. Black Man, I applaud you! |
From: Dr. Lonnetta Marie Taylor-Gaines
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in
high places.
Ephesians 6:12
“Things must change.” “We got to make this world a better place!” “It’s time for humankind to live up to its name.” Most of us believe those things.
Most of us want to live in a world of harmony, love and peace—a world where we can raise our children well, see our parents mellow and ripen…become our own best selves… most of us want to live in a world of
joyous abundance for all. Most of us, but—not all of us…and therein lies the problem.
How do we fight for a better world? What kind of war can we wage against principalities, against spiritual wickedness in high places?
George Edward Tait wages a war with his words—with metaphors and similes—heat-seeking missiles that search for, uncover, and destroy the evil. George Edward Tait calls on our African ancestral warriors and
makers of miracles. George Edward Tait calls on the wild-rhythmic Spirit Force manifesting in our music.
George Edward Tait calls on each one of us—to hear, to listen, and to respond.
Thank you, Tait, for the Capricornian consistency of your love for our people. Thank you, Tait for your vision of our potential to make things better. Thank you, Tait, for the cleansing power and the
redeeming hopefulness of your epic classic—The Black Brigade.
Thank you, Tait, for challenging us to remember and to act—while yet we can.
“the time is at hand, when, with but the power of words, and the divine will of our God,
the vile shackles of slavery shall be broken asunder from you,
and no man known shall dare to own or proclaim you as his bondsmen.”
Robert Young in The Ethiopian Manifesto quoted in
Vincent Harding (1981), There is a River: The Black Struggle for Freedom in America
Thank you, Mr. George Edward Tait, for the power of your words, spoken for our prosperity and for our liberation. Thank you, Mr. George Edward Tait, for the power of your words, spoken to inspire our cultural
rebirth as a people of courage, a people of power, a people of pride, a people of purpose… thank you, Mr. George Edward Tait, for the power of your words—spoken for us all. |
From: Tehut-Nine
Congratulations George, you are an icon in the poetry world. Thank you for your wonderful work, your excellence inspires me. One love |
From: M. Tillinghast
Since I heard the music of this poem some years ago, I have wanted to have it at a table with others discussing large ideas. I have yearned to feast on it, to march lock step to its cadence,
envision its trajectories, and participate in its impassioned and committed journey into the heart of night – to uncoil the oppressors’ knots with clarity and purpose. The Black Brigade is not just for silent reading, it is at its best aloud
in a room among the intellectually engaged. Few have the genius to write such memorable words in such style and imagery, to etch thoughts into the deepest recesses of the mind. The Black Brigade does and will stand against time as a classic,
a revival of the soul, an allegorical tale of a brigade of hope. |
From: Akua B. Weekes
When I first saw George Edward Tait perform The Black Brigade, I was in awe of him. The experience saturated my Being and I had to contain myself. I wanted to rush to this person with accolades and praise songs. Instead, I said nothing. “He already knows he
is great! How could he not know it?” I rationalized my inaction. Approaching him would invade a sacred space, I felt.
Later, when I met George Edward Tait, I told him of my experience. “You should have said something,” he told me. “An artist always needs to hear feedback.” That was the first of many lessons from George Edward Tait.
Since that time, I have had the opportunity to see George Edward Tait perform The Black Brigade in the community and on college campuses around the country. First time listeners are usually as stricken as I was. What manner of mind is this? He weaves words
with wisdom while witnessing the down-pressers’ destruction. At the same time, he acknowledges ancestral commitment and contributions. His poetry is poignant, passionate and probably painful for Africans who know not their self-interests or the interests of
humanity. Tait is a take-no-prisoner kind of poet.
Re-reading The Black Brigade in the 30th year of its writing, was like reading a prophecy come true. The existence of a poem like this 30 years ago suggests that America needed to take a long, hard, cold look in the mirror. Perhaps had America been honest
with herself and her history, she would have done a cleansing, a big ritual bath, a long-continuous “Aum,” some kind of purification, reparations, pennants, ANYTHING to address her internal issues, it would have set the stage for her to be gentler, kinder
and more just in her dealings throughout the world. Instead, we are living in a “post 9-11” era and America walks in fear of breathing out.
It is a pity that the poet’s prediction was not prevented! What a shame that America still does not make a qualitative change towards humanism! How sad that this present-day violence of war and destruction, some say, is a step towards justice and world
peace. Did not the perpetuators of this violence think that Black people and people of color would ever tire of being the only victims?
So congratulations Tait for having the insight and foresight to write a poem called The Black Brigade. It didn’t happen exactly the way you called it, but it happened just the same. The mission of the poet is a sacred one: to tell the truth at all times. You
have fulfilled your destiny. It’s up to the world to listen or suffer the consequences! |
From: Briggie Williams
I can't find the words to express myself after reading and re-reading "The Black Brigade." There are many words, and notes, and shapes in the world. Words on paper, shapes on a canvas or notes taking flight from a horn, all have there place in the world. But
it's how they all hang together that gives them meaning, richness, power and grit.
The dexterity with which you paint with words is astounding, the rhythm and timing flawless. I've never read anyone's work in which I had to remind myself to breathe.
In the gallery of my mind, where I hang the dreams and prayers for those I love, I must give you a place of honor. The truth is the reason why.
The truth of this poem, like fire, burns when you get too close. But you will never burn because you are the fire. And what is left after a blaze, the blaze of "The Black Brigade?" The same thing that is left after any cleansing - ash, life, rebirth: the
truth. |
From: Carol Wilson
c
The words of George Edward Tait have always inspired me, and continue to inspire me. They inspire others through me as I enthusiastically share his words with them. His words excite, educate and hold one in awe. The Black Brigade, which I heard Mr. Tait read
on several occasions is among my many favorites from his collections of poetry. I cannot hear it enough. It rings with the same emphatic poignancy today as it did thirty years ago. This is documented proof of the greatness of his work. I read it then and I'm
still reading it today. But I read it in a whisper because I fear the characters will identify themselves, materialize and begin acting out those beautiful words. On second thought, that may be a glorious sight to see! |
From: Nana Camille Yarbrough
Thirty years ago, poet George Edward Tait gave us a startling vision of courage, commitment and victory outlined in his poem " THE BLACK BRIGADE." Since that time, on numerous occasions, I have been
present in audiences inspired to rise to their feet in appreciation, as he read his magic poem to them. I suspect and hope it has also inspired others to rise to their feet not only in appreciation - but to go join a brigade. |
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