How Black Men Lose Their Smile - Bashy and Music education

It's not often that I find myself listening to a track, and feeling as though a part of my existence has been so eloquently and poignantly expressed. It's not as though I've been through all of the things that Bashy talks about, but in my minds eye, I can see the faces of the many Black men and boys I have interacted with in my life ,and understand them just that little bit more.

From many conversations I've had over the years, one of underlying issues I often encounter, is from teachers or educators who are not sure how to really relate to their young Black male students. Whether there's a fear of talking about race or avoiding cultural trends, young Black boys can grow up feeling as though there are no safe or welcoming spaces for them in education. As Bashy talks about, those comments or policies about our hair, mistaking 'messing around' for a lack of respect, failing to make culturally relevant connections or over policing behaviour, can contribute to the slow erosion of Black boys' joy.

Sped through work then would mess about They should’ve given me extra help But said I was trouble then kicked me out That’s How Black Men Lose Their Smile

Listen to this song and picture the Black boys you teach or come into contact with in your educational settings. As you listen, I challenge you to think about how you could support Black boys by having a deeper understanding of what they may be going through, and how your content and pedagogy can be adapted to become more culturally relevant and meaningful to them. While music education cannot solve racial and economic issues, how can we empower young Black boys so that they leave our classrooms with a smile?

The world has made me hate myself I’m scared of men that look like me Self hatred rooted so deep Him or I, I must protect myself I’m going grave or I’m going jail That’s How Black Men Lose Their Smile