Chicago’s own BJ The Chicago Kid isn’t afraid to use his voice. The singer-songwriter has received acclaim for his work over the years, including a recent nod from Michelle Obama in her 2020 workout playlist. We had the chance to speak with BJ about the importance of Black History Month.
Be sure to check out more of our celebration of Black History Month.
The following interview has been lightly edited.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month means so much to me. I remember back in elementary school, they taught us about the importance of understanding what it was to be black and to realize that the month is not just a reminder. Still, we must celebrate black excellence every day. We must celebrate what it took to get here, who helped, the moments that changed our lives, the people we lost, and the inspiration to go further.
Why is Black History Month so important?
Feel like I kind of answered that in the first one, my bad [laughs].
What’s underrated about Black History Month?
I think the way it’s looked at is the most underrated thing about it. It’s perceived as only a month. I think we deserve more. We’re the only race that was systematically enslaved in the United States of America! Think about that! We must celebrate our many acts of survival from then till now, every day.
How does Black History Month inspire you?
Black History Month inspires my freedom as a man, a son, a brother, an uncle, and as a musician. It reminds me of where we came from and where we can go.
How do you hope to inspire future generations?
I hope to inspire future generations from my champion moments and my mistakes—the freedom I have in advancing our generation in whatever way I can. I hope people take that and use my example, the good and the bad, to make their own lives better. Peace and blessings.
