Here to Stay - Ayanna Witter-Johnson


Singer, songwriter, cellist Ayanna Witter-Johnson is a rare exception to the rule that classical and alternative R&B music cannot successfully coexist.
Ayanna was commissioned by Cultural Solutions UK to compose and perform a song in response to her own lived-experience of being the grand daughter of the Windrush Generation. The result is 'Here To Stay'.
A performer of extraordinary versatility, her live shows are intimate journeys that chronicle her experience as a female artist in the 21st century. Because of her musical prowess, mesmerizing vocals, non-compromising lyrics and ability to deftly reinterpret songs on the cello, Ayanna is able to bridge both the classical and urban worlds effortlessly.

HERE TO STAY
Intro:
So we come, so we come, in search of a better life
So we come, so we come, in search of a better life
So we come, so we come, in search of a better life
Who’s there?
So we come, so we come, in search of a better life
What will we find?
So we come, so we come, in search of a better life
Will we be safe?
So we come, so we come, in search of a better life
Verse 1:
An open invitation
To come re-build a nation
But closed doors was all we found
A hostile situation
Destroyed our reputation
Too late to turn back now.
Too late to turn back now.
Chorus:
Still we thrive
We paved the way
Yes we rise
We’re here to stay.
Verse 2:
We brought the celebrations
A colourful sensation
This land is now our home
We live in segregation
Denied true education
How long can this go on?
this land is now our home.
Chorus:
Still we thrive
Yes we thrive, paved the way
We paved the way
Paved the way, here to stay
Yes we rise
Yes we rise, still we thrive
We’re here to stay.
Here to stay, paved the way
Still we thrive
Yes we thrive, paved the way
We paved the way
Paved the way, here to stay
Yes we rise
Yes we rise, still we thrive
We’re here to stay.
Here to stay, paved the way
Ayanna Witter-Johnson
Copyright 2020
Ayanna talking about her family and the making of ‘Here To Stay’