Musicians React to the Death of Civil Rights Leader and Politician John Lewis

John Lewis passed away on July 17. Lewis was a civil rights leader and a politician, when he passed he was an active member of the House of Representatives. Lewis was 80 years old when he passed. Lewis, who was involved with the civil rights march in Selma, died from stage four pancreatic cancer that he said, “I have been in some kind of fight — for freedom, equality, basic human rights — for nearly my entire life,” when asked about his battle with cancer.

In the wake of Lewis’ death many artists have spoken out and shared their mourning. Ice Cube tweeted, “So much love, honor and respect for John Lewis. Although we never met, I’ve always admired your courage. Rest In Peace Mr. Lewis. We got it from here…”

Country artist Maren Morris shared, “Rest In Peace, John Lewis. Here’s to more “good trouble.”

Rest In Peace, John Lewis. Here’s to more “good trouble.” 🙌🏼 https://t.co/5tC3jGZNmy

— MAREN MORRIS (@MarenMorris) July 18, 2020

Another country artist, Brad Paisley, shares his gratitude towards Lewis by saying, “John Lewis sat at the Nashville @woolworthon5th lunch counter in Feb, 1960, and was arrested for it. And he never gave up the fight. I can’t imagine this world without his bravery or sacrifice. Rest In Peace.
The second photo from 2019 is the same @woolworthon5th, with my friend @thenashvilleiwishiknew David Ewing, where we’re able to have lunch together because of #johnlewis”

Paul McCartney made a proposition of renaming a famous landmark after Lewis stating, “Sad to hear the news that civil rights legend John Lewis died yesterday. He was such a great leader who fought with honesty and bravery for civil rights in America. Long may his memory remain in our hearts. How about renaming the famous Pettus Bridge…”

Swizz beats left it sweet and simple with a tweet for John Lewis that read, “Sleep well King.”

The iconic singer and actress Barbara Streisand said about Lewis, “THIS is a president,” and shared a full length statement on his passing.

EL-P from Run The Jewels, says simply, “Thank You John Lewis.”

Jason Isbell decided to take the time to not only acknowledge Lewis’ death and recognize the incredible work that he has done, but everything he could have done if the situation was different. Isbell says, “Imagine what a man like John Lewis could’ve done for us all if he hadn’t needed to use his whole life to fight for something as simple as fairness.”

Saul Williams added to the stream of mourning tweets and posts sharing a quote that says, “The vote is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have in a democratic society.”

The band Evanescence shared a tweet from John Lewis’ official account and commented, “A few of the many wise words he left us with. Let them ring! RIP John Lewis.”

Paige Willis: I am a student at Fresno City College in California majoring in commercial music transferring to a four year university in 2021. I grew up in a musical family and have been singing since I was 5. I also play the guitar and the piano. My music taste ranges from indie, r&b, hip hop, rock, pop, punk, and alternative music. Some of my favorite artists are, Lennon Stella, Jorja Smith, Tech N9ne, Still Woozy, Brent Faiyez, Jeff Buckley, The Killers, and Fleetwood Mac. As a writer I hope to provide information that can educate and bring to attention important news that deserves to be shared. Music is the constant in emotional times such as the Great Depression, the Recession of '08, and most recently COVID-19. It is our duty as lovers of music to expand the community and keep it in tact through all phases of life.
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