Like Sam Cooke, 17-year-old Xavian Lewis was born in Mississippi. However, the two have more than their birth state in common. In a video posted on social media, its as if Lewis is channeling Cooke in his cover of the iconic song “A Change is Gonna Come.”
It’s a message many can relate to and hope for in these times.
Because of Them We Can spoke with the 11th grader to find out where the passion for his soulful rendition came from.
“I’ve been singing my whole life, mostly gospel music and that has taught me to feel passion for the songs that I sing.”
Lewis recorded the song during Black History Month and said that in his heart and mind he teleports back to the era the songs he sings were created.
“The main goal of my singing is to allow people to feel the hurt of a people, no matter the people.”
We felt that.
Lewis was recorded singing the song in his 11th grade classroom at Natchez Early College. When we asked him if he still believes a change is going to come he had an answer we didn’t anticipate.
“I believe the change that is to come is on a personal level and only then will it change a nation.”
His wisdom matches the soulfulness of his voice.