What would Trayvon Martin have said if he could have defended himself?
Veteran Chicago producer pens global anti-youth violence anthem, vows to support CEASE Fire with proceeds
CHICAGO, IL (BlackNews.com) — The killing of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin remains at the forefront of national news headlines. While most news reports center around what Martin’s shooter George Zimmerman may have been thinking when he pulled the trigger, a Chicago-based music producer and father of two teen boys is sparking a nationwide dialogue on what Martin may have been thinking during the final moments leading up to his tragic death.
Darryl Duncan is an award-winning producer and composer. He recently penned the song “18” in tribute to Martin. See the YouTube video of the song at http://youtu.be/9YrV18apV-c
Duncan wrote “18” from the perspective of Martin who had recently celebrated his 17th birthday at the time of his murder. “I just began to write the words as if he were talking…what would Trayvon have said IF he could have defended himself? What would Trayvon want the world to know about the last few minutes of his life?” Duncan said.
Duncan also wanted to create the song to give young people nationwide a voice. “Every child deserves to make it to 18 without having to face the threat of senseless violence,” he said. “My sons are 16. They are Trayvon Martin. This song is not only dedicated to them but to those whose lives have been cut short.”
Duncan tapped lead vocalist Isaiah Robinson, Emmy award-winning vocalist Joan Collaso and a local gospel choir to deliver the powerful vocals, creating a song that poignantly captures the emotion people across the country have felt in the wake of Martin’s death. “18” is available on iTunes, Amazon mp3, Spotify and Google Play. A portion of the proceeds with be donated to CEASE Fire, an internationally acclaimed youth anti-violence organization.
To arrange an interview with Darryl Duncan, contact Monique Caradine @ Momentum Media Group: 708-720-4252 x156 or email Mo@momentum-media.tv
About Darryl Duncan:
An award-winning songwriter and producer, Darryl has worked with music industry legends including Chaka Khan, R. Kelly, Earth, Wind and Fire and many more. His company, The FLOW Corporate Audio Group, creates jingles, theme music and custom audio development services for businesses around the world.
Background on Trayvon Martin’s case:
Viewed by George Zimmerman as “suspicious” and a “threat,” Zimmerman followed, confronted and ultimately fatally shot Trayvon Martin on February 26, 2012. Zimmerman claims he shot in self-defense but it was later determined that Martin was unarmed, carrying only a cell phone and a bag of Skittles candy, as he walked through a gated community in Florida where his father’s fiancé lived. Due to mounting public pressure, Zimmerman was finally arrested and charged with second degree murder on April 11, 2012.
Photo Caption: The single cover for Darryl Duncan’s song “18” in tribute to Trayvon Martin
