The Documentary Podcast Praise You: A forgotten love letter to black men
7 snips
Jun 27, 2025 In this captivating conversation, civil rights activist Camille Yarbrough shares her journey as a musician and artist. Known for 'Take Yo' Praise,' she reflects on her love letter to Black men, inspired by personal and cultural histories. Camille discusses the struggles of getting her message across amid systemic racism and the irony of her song's revival through Fatboy Slim’s hit. She emphasizes the importance of celebrating Black masculinity and the transformative power of music in social activism, making her story both poignant and inspiring.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Childhood Witness to Family Anger
- Camille witnessed her father's frequent rage and physical abuse at home, sparking questions about his anger.
- She rejected stereotypes blaming Black violence and sought to understand the root causes.
Josephine Baker's Impact
- At 14, Camille saw Josephine Baker's passionate performance addressing racism, which inspired her deeply.
- The experience gave Camille a role model and courage to speak about racial injustice through art.
Family Trauma Revealed
- Camille's father was raped in his youth by white men in Alabama, a hidden trauma that explained his anger and rage later.
- This painful family history shaped Camille's art and activism profoundly.
