How To Hold On

by Melanie DeMore

Born in the Bronx, and currently living in Oakland, CA, Melanie is a queer, black woman, and vocal activist. She is a highly accomplished vocalist and song leader, with a powerful baritone voice. She lovingly shared this song with me, and I had the pleasure of a conversation with her about the intent behind it. Please read her notes at the bottom.

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LYRICS:

How to hold on 

How to hold on

How to hold on in the storm 

Oh, how to hold on 

How do you hold on 

How to hold on in the storm 

Notes from Melanie:

Low - The song is asking the question, but not giving the answer. We have to begin by asking the question.

Mid - “How. Do. You.” - that represents the pain, drawing from the African-American tradition of “moaning.” Collective grieving is the way towards healing.

High - this represents the ancestors, ethereal, high above us.

Every individual has to feel how they connect to the deep feeling in this song. What is your story?