On Tuesday, 14th May, during Mental Health Week at the Bristol Beacon, a wave of excitement and anticipation swept through the audience as I launched Restore Black! With the stage set for a truly unforgettable experience, the event marked a new chapter in the journey of mental-health, healing and self-discovery.
Fresh from a tour with Simple Minds, and singing songs from her debut album, ‘Sarah Brown Sings Mahilia Jackson,’ Sarah’s captivating presence added an extra layer of excitement to the occasion. Her powerful voice, and confidence, coupled with her unique elegant style, entranced the audience from the moment she stepped onto the stage. The hush of silence that fell over the crowd during her acapella performance of 'Amazing Grace' was a testament to the mesmerising effect of her music.
After the applause, I greeted Sarah, we took our seats in my temporary therapy office, and dived into our on stage therapy session. As Sarah transitioned from performer to storyteller, the energy in the auditorium shifted, giving way to moments of vulnerability and introspection. Sarah openly and candidly shared with me about her early relationship with her parents and siblings. We explored how being told, at a young age, that she was ugly impacted her, and the various coping mechanisms she used to feel beautiful. We also discussed how experiences in school, her intimate relationships and marriage further reinforced these beliefs of not being good enough or desirable.
The inaugural event of Restore Black Presents: Soul Gold transcended a mere launch; it was a celebration of resilience, healing, the art of storytelling, and the transformative influence of music and live on-stage therapy session inspiring individuals to reflect on their mental well-being. Sarah’s candid revelations about her journey from feeling invisible as a child to finding empowerment in adulthood resonated deeply with the audience, instilling a sense of hope and courage in all who bore witness to her journey.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Sarah Brown for inspiring hope through her story and for playing a significant role in the inaugural event of Restore Black Presents: Soul Gold. I have already heard from individuals in the audience who resonated deeply with Sarah's narrative, finding solace and encouragement to see themselves in a new and positive light, knowing they are not alone in their journey. Through her journey, the mission of Restore Black was made visible, Sarah has empowered others to step out of the shadows, embrace therapy, and embark on a path towards healing and self-discovery.
In the echoes of Maya Angelou's timeless words, “History, despite its wrenching pain cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage need to be lived again.” The launch of Restore Black was a testament to the courage needed to confront the past and embrace the future with open hearts and minds.
