About the song

**Black and White: A Timeless Tale of Racial Tension**

Released in 1969, “Black and White” by Three Dog Night is a poignant and thought-provoking song that delves into the complexities of race relations in America. The song’s lyrics, penned by Chuck Negron, offer a powerful exploration of societal prejudices and the enduring hope for unity.

Three Dog Night, known for their harmonies and soulful rock sound, perfectly captures the emotional depth of this song. The band’s rendition, featuring Negron’s heartfelt vocals, brings the lyrics to life with a raw authenticity. The song’s arrangement is both melodic and driving, creating a compelling musical backdrop for the powerful message.

At the heart of “Black and White” is a story of two young lovers from different racial backgrounds. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of their forbidden love, hindered by societal expectations and prejudices. The couple’s desire for a future together is met with resistance from their families and communities.

The song’s chorus, with its haunting refrain of “black and white,” serves as a powerful symbol of the racial divide. It highlights the stark contrast between the two races and the challenges they face in overcoming these differences. The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the song’s central theme and reinforces the message of hope for a more equitable future.

The lyrics of “Black and White” are filled with imagery and metaphors that evoke strong emotions. The song references historical events, such as the Civil War, to illustrate the long-standing tensions between black and white Americans. The use of symbolism, such as the “burning cross” and the “white picket fence,” further enhances the song’s impact.

Despite its somber subject matter, “Black and White” offers a glimmer of hope. The song concludes with a plea for understanding and acceptance. The lyrics suggest that by embracing our differences, we can create a more harmonious and just society.

“Black and White” remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its powerful message and enduring melody have solidified its place in music history. The song serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by people of color and the importance of fighting for equality and justice.

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Lyrics

The ink is black
The page is white
Together we learn to read and write
A child is black
A child is white
A whole world looks upon the sight
A beautiful sight

And now a child can understand
That this is the law of all the land
All the land

The world is black
The world is white
It turns by day and then by night
A child is black
A child is white
Together they grow to see the light
To see the light

And now at last we plainly see
We’ll have a dance of liberty
The world is black
The world is white
It turns by day and then by night
A child is black
A child is white
The whole world looks upon the sight
A beautiful sight

The world is black
The world is white
It turns by day and the by night
A child id black
A child is white
Together they grow to see the light
To see the light