Maya Angelou’s iconic poem, “Still I Rise” will forever speak to generations to come. The timeless passage boasts stanzas of confidence and pride. Now in 2015, those words ring true thanks to Nicki Minaj.
The Queens native made an appearance on A&E’s “Shining A Light: A Concert for Progress on Race in America,” where she recited the award-winning literary work. “You may write me down in history/ With your bitter, twisted lies/ You may trod me in the very dirt/ But still, like dust, I’ll rise,” Nicki states.
The network’s special was geared towards raising funds for United Way Worldwide, an organization aimed at installing educational facilities worldwide, and aiding disenfranchised communities that lack proper health awareness. The airing, which premieres on Friday at 8 p.m. on A&E, also hosted performances from John Legend, Miguel, Tori Kelly, Pharrell Williams and more.
Watch Nicki’s rendition and check out the other performances below.