Sing for Dr. King! Vitamin L Songs for a Beloved Community

Gr 1–5—This album was produced to celebrate Dr. King and his vision for the world, and to support character education and the Martin Luther King Community Build (a collaboration of several educational and volunteer organizations to address issues of inequity) in Ithaca, NY. Vitamin L is Jan and Janice Nigro, plus a number of chorus members. Jan wrote 13 of the 14 songs. With solid vocal and instrumental performances on guitars, synthesizers, and piano, the songs focus on empathy, human rights, diversity, and respectful communication. Musical styles include reggae, rock, jazz, and country. The playlist includes "Walk a Mile," "Martin's Heart" (biographical facts), "That Is a Mighty Power," "Look a Little Deeper," Step Up, Speak Out" (encourages listeners to take action when they witness injustice), "The Way You Say It," "Some Rights in This World," "Martin Is Calling," "People Are a Rainbow," "Freedom Riders Got to Ride" (recalling events from 1961), "Talkin' Bout a Put Down," "A World United," and Harry Dixon Loes's "This Little Light of Mine" (with additional lyrics). This Parents Choice award winner is a useful album for classrooms or at home listening.—Beverly Wrigglesworth, San Antonio Public Library, TX