19 Feb

As I get older, I’ve started to understand more deeply the impact and legacy that my parents and their generation had on myself, my family and the wider community.

My parents, Samuel Nathaniel Prince and Frances Elizabeth Prince, were part of the Windrush generation, arriving in the Motherland, England, in 1954.

They arrived, full of ambition, beguiled by the promises of new beginnings and prosperity promised by the UK government propaganda machine.

Their aspiration? To make a better life. For them and for their three young sons; Trevor De’lano Prince, Glenn De’Lisser Prince and myself, Ray De’Mercado Prince.

My brothers and I were so highly favoured to have such wonderful role models. We were brought up in the church, an integral focal point for many within the African-Caribbean diaspora. Both of my brothers played gospel music within our community and their love and prowess left me in awe. I was inspired to learn an instrument because of their passion and skill; we continued to play gospel music together in our community for many, many years.

When I think back to the trials and tribulations endured and the burdens my parents carried with strength and determination, so that I and my brothers could have a life our ancestors barely dared to dream of, I am always humbled and immensely proud.

They modelled positive behaviours, unknowingly, every single day. Their values, resilience and self-worth underpinned their every decision. As children, we took for granted these incredible, resilient people who we were fortunate enough to have love and care for us. In hindsight, my heart is heavy with pride, admiration and longing for both of these remarkable people, taken from us too soon. Frances passed in 2015, with Samuel leaving this mortal coil in 2019.

Sadly, that same year, 2019, my eldest brother Trevor died suddenly too. The impact of losing souls so dear to me was significant. Made all the more stark by our shared passion for gospel music. I miss him dearly.

And, though so poignant, it has been the music that has given me solace in ties of great despair. Growing up in the church, I can now see how the hymns brought strength, hope and peace to those who railed against strife and suffering unseen.

Being able to submerge myself in music, offering my burdens up to a higher power through lyrics and song, has helped soothe my soul on more occasions than I can count. Hymns are melodic, moving, healing balms.

I have a responsibly to keep these hymns alive and accessible to all. Gospel Revisited Project is my lasting monument to the legacy of my parents and to all those of the Windrush generation. Through music I keep their memories alive.