THE ATLANTA VOICE

“Diary’s” D. Louis Morgan A Real Musical Genius

By Sonya Jenkins

If you saw the electrifying play “The Diary of Black Men” at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre, then you had to appreciate the musical selections by D.Louis Morgan.

Texas born Morgan has been the musical director of “The Diary of Black Men” since 1979 and has yet to miss a performance. His music is a blend of jazz and soul, and it operates on so many elements that it can often be difficult to classify.

D. Louis Morgan, the talented percussionist, composer and producer, began his musical career at a very young age, but “The Diary of Black Men” has been his ally to phenomenal success and has given him the musical outlet that he desires. With sell-out crowds in the United States and abroad, the play gained popularity and acclaim and its message of love and unity in African American male/female relationships has been a solid standing ground.

The play features six male characters, all from different walks of life, who speak about the hardships of dealing with African American women. Morgan emphasized that the message that “Diary” wants to convey is “for Black men to love, honor, respect and protect the Black woman.” He feels that “Diary” is meant to inspire African American men and women to develop and nurture better working relationships between each other. ‘I hope to see the people who come and view it walk away with a positive message,” he said.

The musical unit for “Diary” is comprised of other talented stylists as well. Roger “Keyz” Weaver is keyboardist, Daryl Taylor is bassist, Paul Cart is woodwindist, David Scott is guitarist, and the melody and closing song “How Do You Love a Black Woman?” is performed by Clarence Whitmore, who directs “Diary” and acts as the militant/husband in the play.

“Diary” has been so successful that Morgan feels that it may very well be one of the longest running plays in African American theatre. It has run in Atlanta at least five times, and it is very possible that “Diary” will return in the fall.

Morgan is devoted to composing and becoming a better musician. “I’m always trying to find time to practice,” he stated. “Relationships,” the soundtrack and musical score from “Diary” is available on music cassette and can be ordered through M.T.G. 360, c/o The Diary Sound Track. 8406 Bigwood. Houston, Texas 77078. The cost is $10 and $2 for shipping and handling. “A portion for the sale of this sound track will go to designated non-profit organizations who support the building of a better world through the development of people throughout the world.”

“The Diary of Black Men,” written by Thomas Meloncon, will continue to tour the world. . . entertaining, informing, inspiring, and spreading the message of love, while D. Louis Morgan continues to stir the souls of music lovers with his unique talents and abilities.