It’s where we first heard Malcolm’s “by any means necessary” and Marcus’s back-to-Africa call,
And Adam let us know that there is definitely “ black power” for all.
And now what we hear as we walk down these streets,
Are the ringing echoes of the Reverend Al’s “no justice, no peace.”
As I walk through Harlem, the tears begin to fall
For this is the Mecca of my people, where we stand tall.
The Schomburg Center, the Studio Museum and so much more
Londell's, Sylvia's, Copeland’s, lots of food for sure
Then there’s the World Famous Apollo on 125th Street,
Where so many of our entertainers first showcased their beat.
As I walk through Harlem, the tears begin to fall
For this is the Mecca of my people, where we stand tall.
The Savoy, the Audubon, The Baby Grand and St. Theresa Hotel of old
Then there’s Strivers Row, and Sugar Hill where you’ll find the gold.
Abyssinian and Canaan Baptist are two of the prominent churches here.
You will also find City College up on the hill way up there.
As I walk through Harlem, the tears begin to fall
For this is the Mecca of my people, where we stand tall.
People from Africa, the Caribbean, down South and out West.
All moved to Harlem to try to do their best.
So to me, there’s no place like Harlem, where my people stand tall
From our ancestors to descendants, Harlem welcomes them all!
© Rolanda Pyle - All Rights Reserved.
