The name Afro Blue comes from the influential jazz composition “Afro Blue,” written by Cuban percussionist Mongo Santamaría in 1959. The piece introduced Afro-Cuban rhythmic traditions into modern jazz and reflected the deep cultural connections of the African diaspora. In 1963, the song was famously recorded and reinterpreted by John Coltrane, with lyrics written by Oscar Brown Jr., during the height of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Coltrane’s version expanded the song into something more spiritual and exploratory, reflecting a period of social upheaval, cultural transformation, and a growing call for racial justice. Over the decades, “Afro Blue” has continued to be interpreted by musicians across generations, each version reflecting the moment in which it was performed. The song has become a symbol of cultural continuity, evolution, and creative resilience within the African diaspora.

Growing up in Chicago, music and jazz were a consistent presence in my home and community. Music connected me generationally and informed me of where I fit in The Struggle / La Lucha and what that means. I also believe that we are not static. We are indeed dynamic.

I feel that the lyrics and musical compositions of this song, and the transformation of this art piece over generations, are truly a powerful testament to the abilities and resilience of marginalized communities. Creators. Builders. Connectors. Legacy Makers.

AfroBlue Counseling, LLC encapsulates this very notion of these dynamics, with the freedom to transform and make new meanings from previous ones, and to decide for yourself how you want that reflected in your developing existence, connections, and identity.

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