So what's in a name, That begs you heed it's call And binds you in it's thrall Tells of where you hail What flag your faith may sail. Tell me what's in a name!

So what's in a name, That beats a courage down, Or a people to the ground, etching pride away, and makes a difference pay.

In a foreign land, some are deemed to stand Not by how they live, but the name they give
Like an easy brand, a label close at hand A veil across a mask, to silence all they'll ask

And it dares, to live long after I've gone, Amplify the things I've done. And sit in judgement of me, Exhale with all who fear me, Weep with those who knew me,
by name, my true name.

I heard of a boy, Who knew he'd left his name, behind, when history came, To take it all away, one dark African day.

He went to find his name, So tell me what's in a name that etches pride away Or makes a difference pay. Can take it all away On dark African days. That begs you heed it's call And binds you in it's thrall.