"I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to be Free

Billy Taylor
(musicians not credited)
Gelatin silver print,
ca. 1950-54
Music Division
Gift, 19 (107A)

Billy Taylor (b.1921)
"I Wish I Knew How It Would
Feel to Be Free"
Page 2
Holograph manuscript, 1954
Music Division
Gift, 19 (107C)

This manuscript is a holograph score for strings of "I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to be Free" composed by jazz pianist and educator Dr. Billy Taylor. Although penned in 1954, the piece did not enjoy popularity until the Civil Rights Movement of the late 1950s and throughout the decade of the 1960s. The title expresses one of the fundamental themes of the Movement: the wish to live free in America with dignity. A vocal rendition sung by Nina Simone brought attention to the piece, during her 1967 RCA Records album release of Silk and Soul. Seated at upright piano, Dr. Taylor is surrounded by fellow musicians in what appears to be a rehearsal session during the early 50s.

Nina Simone (b. 1933)
"I Wish I Knew How It Would
Feel to Be Free"
45 rpm.
RCA Victor Recording, 1976
Music Division
Gift, 19 (107B)