"Imagine If Black Boys Just Smiled At Each Other," A Soul-Stirring Journey into the Black Male Experience

Marcelo Cervone, a London-based composer whose musical influences span from the epic orchestral sounds of John Williams and Howard Shore to the innovative rhythms of Ludwig Göransson and Hans Zimmer, has crafted a profound piece in his recent release, “Imagine If Black Boys Just Smiled At Each Other.” Known for his work on CBBC’s “Andy and the Band” and collaborations with Sir Brian May and Nandi Bushell, Cervone continues to demonstrate his versatility and emotional depth. This track, a winner of the Best Short Film Award at the Boundless Film Festival 2023, is a poignant spoken word song layered with contemporary pop and experimental beats.

Recorded in Cervone’s home studio in Woolwich and perfected at The Bookhouse Studio in Bermondsey, the production quality is top-notch, but it’s the thematic richness that truly sets this piece apart. Through “Imagine If Black Boys Just Smiled At Each Other,” Cervone addresses a topic that is both deeply personal and universally relevant: the experiences of black men encountering each other on the street.

The song weaves together the real voices of black men sharing their stories—moments of tension, camaraderie, suspicion, and solidarity. These narratives are delivered with a raw honesty that is both heart-wrenching and enlightening. The extreme, surreal polar reactions they receive—from warmth to hostility—are portrayed with such authenticity that listeners are compelled to reflect on their perceptions and behaviors.

Cervone’s musical composition enhances these stories, creating a soundscape that mirrors the emotional spectrum of the spoken words. The contemporary pop elements provide an accessible framework, while the experimental beats inject a sense of unpredictability and depth. This juxtaposition mirrors the unpredictable nature of human interactions, particularly those laden with historical and social complexities.

The beats themselves seem to pulse with the heartbeat of the community Cervone portrays—rhythmic, resilient, and rich with layers. The crescendos and decrescendos in the music parallel the highs and lows in the stories told, making for an immersive listening experience that resonates long after the song has ended.

“Imagine If Black Boys Just Smiled At Each Other” isn’t just a song; it’s a social commentary, a call for empathy, and a celebration of resilience. Marcelo Cervone’s ability to blend poignant storytelling with innovative musical composition makes this piece not only a work of art but also a powerful tool for social change.

In a world where the simple act of smiling at another can carry so much weight, Cervone’s latest work encourages us to see the humanity in each other. This track stands as a testament to the power of music and spoken word to inspire reflection and foster understanding. Marcelo Cervone’s compassionate artistry shines through, making “Imagine If Black Boys Just Smiled At Each Other” a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper connection with the world around them.