I have always relied upon the words and melodies of talented musicians to get me through life's challenges and changes; ... to reach that quiet, honest spot in my soul, where me, myself, and I could have a serious conversation.

From the Jackson Five's grammar lesson, "'i' before 'e' except after 'c'", to Ice Cube's street wisdom, "I'd rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6", or George Benson's admonition to "find your strength in love", their music, and its wisdom, seems to play in my mind at appropriate moments ... unlike lectures, speeches, sermons, etc.

At some point, I began to extend the messages of many songs outside the box contemplated by their creators. For example, apply the sentiments of Labelle's "Isn't It a Shame" or Rose Royce's "Love Don't Live Here Anymore" to what has happened to our community, figuratively and literally. I have employed songs in such a manner throughout the pages which comprise The OTR Group sites.

To each of the artists and musicians who have contributed to "the soundtrack of my life" I say thank you. Thank you for advising me "to treat her like a lady". Thank you for helping me understand "what a fool believes, the wise man has the power to reason away". Thank you for demanding that I "respect myself". Thank you for remindiing me to "keep my head to the sky". Thank you for letting me know that "the funk was so wide I couldn't get around it". I will eternally be in your debt.

Check out the songs found on our sites and move your mind "outside the box".
 
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Isley Brothers, Harvest for the World
 
Songs appearing above reflect a conversation about some issue I am currently having with myself, or a conversation in which I believe our community, should engage. Who knows what might happen. Listen to words; free your mind, and your ....

We invite you to make your suggestions for "page songs" by clicking here, and then begin assembling the "soundtrack of your life".