Kansas City Here I Come

Yesterday, I, along with my colleague Congressman Cedric L. Richmond of Louisiana introduced House Resolution 696. This resolution honors the heritage of jazz in the United States, acknowledging the seeds of jazz and its evolution into a signature American sound.

As you know, Kansas City, Missouri, is known as the place where musical geniuses, such as Charles “Yard Bird” Parker, Count Basie, Mary Lou Williams and countless others, lived and perfected their style of jazz in the historic 18th and Vine District.

New Orleans, Louisiana, is known as the place where jazz was born when West African slave rhythms were combined with the harmonic hymns of the church. Melodies were performed in areas such as the famed Congo Square in as early as the 1900’s.

“I’m going to Kansas City, Kansas City here I come,” is one of the most recognized lyrics around the world, because everyone knows that Kansas City is where jazz grew up, and I’m glad it will forever be acknowledged as the home of this musical phenomenon. Jazz has carried the sound and spirit of the city all over the world. I’m proud that this musical marvel will live on and with it the creativity and soul of its origins.

If you’d like to read the full text, a copy of the resolution can be found here.

Finally, I wish a Happy Passover to all those celebrating this weekend!

Warmly,

Emanuel Cleaver, II
Member of Congress