Coalition Black Theatre United has released the empowering, anthemic song “Stand For Change” in partnership with the Republic Records Action Committee. The track features over a dozen musicians and Broadway stars, including Black Theatre United founding members Vanessa Williams, Billy Porter, Audra McDonald, Darius de Haas, Norm Lewis, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Lillias White, Allyson Tucker, Michael McElroy, NaTasha Yvette Williams, LaChanze, Wendell Pierce, and Capathia Jenkins.
“Stand For Change” is said to be a theme song for the coalition, which was formed in 2020 with the goal of providing support and protection for Black talent and lives in and out of the theatre community through combating systemic racism across the United States.
“Over this past year, the pandemic has had a devastating impact on many industries, and the entertainment industry and the shutdown of Broadway has been hit significantly,” said Vanessa Williams. “We’re hopeful ‘Stand for Change,’ will bring more attention to the plight of Black theater artists and will inspire and empower people to believe we can make meaningful changes to create a more equitable society. We’re particularly grateful to Republic Records for embracing and supporting our efforts.”
Proceeds from “Stand For Change” will support the ongoing efforts of Black Theatre United to provide social justice. Speaking of the collaboration, Republic Records co-founder and president Avery Lipman said: “We are honored to work with Black Theatre United on such an important mission to help bring light to the racial disparities in the Black theater community with ‘Stand for Change.’”
“The song conveys a vital message that will inspire change not only in the theater world, but all over the world,” he added. “Stand For Change” was written by Dave Schroeder and Phil Galdston, who produced the track alongside Swagg R’Celious.
The accompanying visual, directed by Michael Cooke, highlights prominent activists and change-makers in the Black community across industries.
I can’t tell you how, I can’t tell you when / But we’ll lay this burden down and lift our hearts again/Cause life has one refrain, one eternal flame /Nothing stays the same /So say their name /Kneel down in righteous rage /And when you stand, take a stand for change,” Black Theatre United sings on “Stand For Change,” delivering a message of hope.
Black Theatre United’s “Stand For Change” is available here.
