Trojan Records launch ‘Young, Gifted and Black’ campaign

Campaign commemorates the pioneering talent of Bob Andy who recently passed away

Marks 50th anniversary of the hit track ‘Young, Gifted and Black’ by Marcia Griffiths and Bob Andy

Initiative launched to celebrate the achievements and talents of black youth worldwide

Trojan Records are set to launch a campaign tied around the 50th anniversary of the hit single Young, Gifted and Black by Bob Andy and Marcia Griffiths. The initiative makes nod to the music which marked a monumental UK chart and cultural moment 50 years ago, whilst equally spotlighting the plethora of young, black individuals making waves worldwide today in 2020.

With the project being centred around the 50th Anniversary of Bob Andy and Marcia Griffiths legendary track Young, Gifted and Black charting top five in 1970, the campaign now has more resonance than ever due to Bob Andy’s recent passing. Trojan Records have decided to continue the initiative in honor of Bob’s outstanding contribution to music and undeniable talent, a true reggae visionary, he epitomises the message of the campaign and paved the way for so many young, black and gifted creatives.

Laurence Cayne-Honeysett of Trojan Records said “Bob not only played an integral role in the development of Jamaican music, but also significantly contributed to the Trojan Records story, writing, performing and producing songs that were instrumental in establishing the label as the world’s most successful and influential reggae company. He will be hugely missed by us all”.

Launching as a social campaign as well as content submissions being housed on a newly created Young, Gifted and Black website, the activation invites the public to submit photos and video clips showcasing stories and examples of black excellence. This content will feature on the website acting as a rich digital tapestry depicting the diverse and remarkable stories of the young, black and gifted youth who are shaping the future.

Officially launching this Friday 3rd April with content submissions being accepted online and across socials under the hashtag #younggiftedandblack2020 or on Younggiftedandblack2020.com the entries will then be chosen with winners being featured in a highly stylised music video which is being made to reimagine the message of the song for the modern day audience, breathing fresh air into its powerful lyrics.

Marcia and Bob’s performance of Young, Gifted and Black paired with the song's powerful theme resulted in the track becoming one of the first reggae tracks to make it to the top 5 of the Official UK Chart on 4th April 1970 over 50 years ago. Originally recorded and released by Nina Simone in 1969, the song was a huge US hit and an anthem of the American Civil Rights Movement, while its positive message struck a chord with communities around the globe.

In times of such uncertainty, the campaign builds on the important narrative the track emcompasses, all whilst restoring faith in humanity and proving that music is a universal language used to unite nations and sparking stories to inspire us amongst difficult circumstances.