Both members attended Dillard High School of Performing Arts. After high school Kev Marcus attended Florida International University and Wil B enrolled at Florida State University. At FIU, Kev met their manager Sam G and the three of them co-founded the production company DKNEX which stands for Di-Versatile Music. The group name "Black Violin" is derived from the influence of a famous jazz violinist, Stuff Smith; six months before Smith's death, he recorded a solo album entitled Black Violin. The duo decided to name their group after the music of the most inspiring violinist they had ever heard.
Black Violin clinched the Showtime at the Apollo 2005 Legend title. Black Violin's notoriety has risen with their performance accompanying Alicia Keys at the 2004 Billboard Awards, and by performing on the same bill with some of the industry's biggest artists. The duo also are avid producers and writers. Most recently, they made a star appearance on "Angelina Ballerina" on the PBS channel.
Black Violin returned to Florida to do a concord in 2011.
Stereotypes
Black Violin Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
All people or things with a particular characteristic are the same
Stereotype: An often unfair and untrue belief that many people have about other people or things
Stereotype: A standardized mental picture that is held in...
Predecir el comportamiento de una persona basada en su raza or universo social, estereotipo
I mean mine is clear - mine is really easy
My number one stereotype is
Doesn't mean you're supposed to be afraid of me
I feel like when I walk into an elevator and there's like four or five, ya know, different other people in there
They're thinking, "Hmm... Let's see what this guy's gonna do. Lemme double check." Maybe they're not afraid, but they're on notice
In a way it's like, ya know, where in one sense I wish that it didn't exist and I wish that I didn't sense, ya know
That they were threatened just by my presence without even knowing who I am
Um, although I wish that it didn't exist I'm kind of glad for it because now it gives me like a goal
Or it gives me something to like try to debunk and like the reason I smile on stage is because I'm completely crushing people's perceptions of not only what, um, a violin can do, or what music could possibly sound like, but also of what a black man is capable of
The lyrics to Black Violin's "Stereotypes" address the issue of preconceived notions that people form about others based on factors such as race, gender, or appearance. The opening lines define a stereotype as an often unjust and false belief that people hold about something or someone. The rest of the lyrics delve into the singer's personal experience with stereotypes as a tall, large black man. He talks about how he perceives others reacting to him in public spaces such as elevators, and how he wishes that the fear or wariness wasn't present but also sees it as an opportunity to challenge stereotypes by performing on stage as a classical violinist. The lyrics are a reflection on the impact of stereotypes on one's self-image and the potential to subvert them by breaking down barriers and defying expectations.
Throughout the song, Black Violin presents a commentary on the different types of stereotypes and how they manifest in everyday interactions. The lyrics highlight how stereotypes can be harmful because they create unfair expectations and can deprive people of opportunities based on incorrect assumptions. The singer also acknowledges the pressure that stereotypes put on individuals to conform or act a certain way. At the same time, there is a sense of empowerment in challenging stereotypes and proving them wrong, as the singer attributes his success to his ability to defy expectations.
Overall, "Stereotypes" is a thought-provoking and impactful commentary on a pervasive issue in modern society. The lyrics encourage listeners to examine their own beliefs and biases and to work towards eliminating stereotypes and treating others with respect and fairness.
Line by Line Meaning
I mean mine is clear - mine is really easy
I have a personal stereotype that is easy to identify and understand.
My number one stereotype is
The most prevalent stereotype that applies to me is
Just because I'm six foot two, two hundred sixty pounds
People may stereotype me based on my physical appearance, specifically my height and weight
Doesn't mean you're supposed to be afraid of me
My appearance should not be a reason for others to feel threatened or fearful.
I feel like when I walk into an elevator and there's like four or five, ya know, different other people in there
I believe that, upon entering an elevator with other people, they are scrutinizing my presence.
They're thinking, 'Hmm... Let's see what this guy's gonna do. Lemme double check.' Maybe they're not afraid, but they're on notice
The others in the elevator may be observing me closely, perhaps even suspicious, but not necessarily afraid.
In a way it's like, ya know, where in one sense I wish that it didn't exist and I wish that I didn't sense, ya know
Although I do not enjoy experiencing or acknowledging stereotypes, part of me cannot help but be aware of them.
That they were threatened just by my presence without even knowing who I am
People's preconceived notions about me based on my appearance instill fear, even though they do not know me personally.
Um, although I wish that it didn't exist I'm kind of glad for it because now it gives me like a goal
Despite my dislike for stereotypes, they motivate me to defy expectations and succeed in things that are perceived as unlikely for people like me.
Or it gives me something to like try to debunk and like the reason I smile on stage is because I'm completely crushing people's perceptions of not only what, um, a violin can do, or what music could possibly sound like, but also of what a black man is capable of
I enjoy using my musical talents to challenge stereotypes and surprise people with my abilities, not only as a musician but also as a black man.
Contributed by Julia Y. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Howard Browne
Truly Amazing!!!
Your passion for your violins has inspired me to write this.
Due to being isolated in my daughters room because of COVID 19 I have recently started to catching up on missed documentaries about black people all over the world.
As a black man Born in the UK I watched some of the UK documentaries first.
The Theme evolved from the title of the Gordon Parks documentary:
A CHOICE OF WEAPONS.
In other words, ones passion can become a weapon that will help to change stereotyped minds, hearts and lives, without one ever truly knowing how much.
Your style of playing the VIOLIN will continue to give hope to every stereotyped, oppressed black person and other oppressed and stereotyped human being around this world.
wherever
Violin or Voice.
Sport or Studies.
Mind or Body.
Passion is POWER.
Keep doing what your doing One Love
Joe Orsak
"One reason I smile on stage is because I know I'm completely crushing perceptions of not only what a violin can do or what music can possibly sound like but also what a black man is capable of." So love that spirit. Rock on brothers. Rock on.
makeit happen
YOU ARE CRUSHING PEOPLE LIES & IGNORANCE becasue if you study the SMALLEST amount of REAL history the POTENTIAL of the BLACK PEOPLE is CLEAR!
Firm Glutes
Black people gave us blues, did they not? Reasonable people shouldn't hold such perceptions.
Theresa Reineke
Black men have always been capable! It’s the stereotypes, prejudice, and pure ignorance that has crushed his spirit these past centuries. I’m preaching this to myself as well because I’ve had moments of ignorance in the past. I’m not perfect, but God is bringing me along!
❤️ Love these talented men!
Mrs. DEW
Rock on Brothers!
Wilbur Jenkins
I'm not black, but I know the same stereotype. I am 6ft2, 260 pounds, shaved head because I am going bald, scars all over my face from accidents as child, and dark bags under my eyes because I work at a computer all day. I also have a strong case of resting bitch face. When I meet new people it's easy to notice they are visibly tense by the sight of me, as if I am some skin-head neo-nazi drug dealer who kills people for money. To counter this I always try to be polite as possible. I excessively say please and thank you to everyone I meet. Truth is I'm kind of a softy. I write a lot of poetry and sing love ballads in the shower. Never judge a book by it's cover folks.
Misha's Sims
As a black woman and a violinist, i love you guys!!!!
Keep it up and show people we exist!
I've been playing for over 25 years and this gives me hope and determination to let my music be heard like you guys are doing.
LadyLotus
This hits different as a black musician in a non stereotypical “black” genre. I know what it’s like to be doing something that people think only white people can do. NEVER STOP BRO 🙌🏽
Savig
yes im white and it angers me that we cant all just work together Towards the bigger problems
Nate
Quit being racist! Literally nobody thinks that. Black artists are some of the most talented and highest paid musicians in the world. Get your facts straight before you start spouting that crap.