‘Young, Gifted & Black’ by Jamaican duo Bob & Marcia turned 50 at the start of April and the half century of this pivotal record – one of the first major reggae hits in the UK – is being marked by Trojan Records. The song was a cover of Nina Simone’s ‘To Be Young, Gifted & Black’ recorded at the very end of the 1960s and which became one of the anthems of the Civil Rights Movement.

On a dedicated website, Trojan is getting fans to submit their memories of the track and explain what it has meant to them over the years.

“Join in the celebrations by uploading a photo/video of yourself along with your story which showcases black excellence,” says the website. It adds that the best submissions could make their way into a new lyric video for the song that will be created in part from UGC to illustrate the enormous cultural impact of the song. Select entries are also highlighted on the website.

There is a tie-in #younggiftedandblack2020 hashtag for users to post their memories of the song on social media.

The campaign has taken on added poignancy because Bob Andy passed away on 27th March, mere days before the single’s anniversary.

“Bob not only played an integral role in the development of Jamaican music, but also significantly contributed to the Trojan Records story, writing, performing and producing songs that were instrumental in establishing the label as the world’s most successful and influential reggae company,” said Trojan’s Laurence Cane-Honeysett. “He will be hugely missed by us all.”

He adds, “In times of such uncertainty, the campaign builds on the important narrative the track encompasses, all whilst restoring faith in humanity and proving that music is a universal language used to unite nations and sparking stories to inspire us amongst difficult circumstances.”