“Speak of Me As I Am,” an inspiring tribute to Paul Robeson, was recently presented by internationally known KB Solomon at a Black History Event at Jacksonville State, which was followed by a reception where he received an award from the city of Jacksonville. Solomon is a basso profondo, which is a bass voice with the lowest vocal range. Solomon’s extraordinary one-man performance was not only a musical, not only a play, but an experience. 

Solomon, who lived in Anniston from ages 2 to 17, had family members in the audience at his stirring tribute to Robeson, the son of a runaway slave, musician, actor, football player, law school graduate and civil rights activist. Solomon wrote the show and included music such as “It’s an impossible story to tell without singing.” The audience was captivated by Solomon’s melodious voice as he sang Robeson songs such as “Ol’ Man River,” “Witness,” “Go Down Moses” and “Every Time I Feel the Spirit.”

Solomon performed principal roles with major opera companies worldwide for 20 years. He has won multiple awards, composes music, writes lyrics, is a vocal coach and producer, has martial arts experience and performs R&B, pop, jazz, Broadway, blues, classical and gospel music in his distinctive voice. 

Penny J. Nielsen
Weaver