Janiva Magness Love Is An Army (CD)

12 tracks 2018

Janiva Magness
I am reluctant to write these liner notes. I don't want to give too much away. I want you to have the chance to listen. Especially to hear. After all, songs are stories and stories put to music can speak to us in ways and places where words alone will fail.

So, I was the kid who always asked "why?" I used to introduce myself to strangers and asked their names. I always asked the awkward questions out of curiosity and pure innocence. I just needed to know. Over the years that has evolved a bit, but I still have that same simple need for accurate information and current truth.

One of the greatest gifts my father gave, was his demand of me to speak the truth. I would come to understand later in my life that this was in fact one of the most important and powerful messages I have ever been given. To be brave and stand in my truth. Now, I doubt there will ever be a time when I won't need to speak of what is on my mind. I am eternally grateful to have the music help me do just that. Right now, my truth, in this world and in these times... Now more than ever — is to stand up, speak up, write it, shout it, sing it and try to be heard. Everywhere.

I believe in the Army of Love. I have witnessed the beauty and power of it countless times in the most unexpected people, places and ways. It binds us in ways that have no words. Sometimes to family, sometimes to total strangers whose path we cross at the most precise and perfect times. It is the tie that binds us to other living creatures. I believe in the power of helping others. That is love in action. And that gives me courage. It gets me out of my head... out of angst and into service to others. Into love.

So, I'm pretty sure it's all here... Songs of empowerment, protest, hope and sweet regret.
I hope the songs speak to both your heart and mind.
I hope you find at least one Hell Yes! in the music.
And if you do find that connection, I will be standing there, ready and waiting... Because... Love Is An Army. Love -