Visiting the Blue Dome Entertainment District in Tulsa Oklahoma, you find this Leon Russell mural, created by artist JEKS. Russell was nominated for 6 Grammy Awards and won 2 of them.
I see Russell's face and I am reminded; I grew up during the time his music reigned. The time was the late 60's to mid 70's. The old saying "times were different then" is true. Though there is always turmoil growing up; times were simpler then, or at least for this straight white female. Knowing what I know now, I wish my peers and I were more open during those years, and I could have talked to those struggling and trying to make their way against the norm. It's so sad teens are still struggling, whether it's with mental illness, sexuality, racial tension, and bullying or even gender inequality, life is hard for our teens and their peers. I had my own struggles as a teen such as being cornered in the backroom by my art teacher, rumors spread that I was a lesbian and having social anxiety besides being shy. So I feel I am allowed to say, remember teens
you are not alone and
you are stronger then the storm, young ones! You can and will survive and there are people who understand and love you and will help.
I'm sharing this beauty with Monday Murals,
here.
Enjoy your day!
Life was so much simpler for us. Fabulous mural!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful mural and great words Millie. We need more kindness in the world! Thanks for contributing.
ReplyDeletethe artist is very talented. I do love murals. I don't know his name but might recognize a song. during those years I was getting married and having babies and working, rarely heard music. I too wish the same as what you told us here. my high school years were a horror to me from 59 to 62.. and I know it is even harder now and so much to deal with.. great post
ReplyDeleteRussell, being a home boy, was probably played in Oklahoma more often then other places, however, some of his songs were made famous by other singers like the Carpenters, Willie Nelson, Joe Cocker, and the Rolling Stones to name a few. Delta Lady is one of my favorites. Many musicians came here to record with him in his studio and were seen around town, even George Harrison, BB King and Eric Clapton. Pretty neat for our generation growing up.
DeleteExcellent mural and I will admit I am not familiar with him. Going to look him up right now.
ReplyDeleteI was never his biggest fan, but oh, I so love a version of his of Wild Horses...of course I have never heard a version I didn't like. But his is one of my 3 favorites.
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