Sam Cooke’s iconic song, ‘A Change is Gonna Come’, is set to inspire a new picture book scheduled for release this fall. The book, titled ‘A Change Is Gonna Come’, will be published by Little Bee Books in collaboration with the estate of Sam Cooke. The cover of the book has been exclusively revealed by PEOPLE and features illustrations by the acclaimed artist Nikkolas Smith. Smith shared his hopes for the book, saying that he aims for it to serve as a companion to Mr. Cooke’s enduring anthem for freedom.
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The forthcoming picture book will incorporate lyrics from Sam Cooke’s renowned 1964 hit, which was originally penned in response to the experiences faced by him and other Black Americans living under Jim Crow laws. The narrative of the children’s book revolves around a young boy from the 1960s who utilises photography as a means to navigate through the era. This story is interwoven with the timeless message conveyed through Cooke’s lyrics, as described in the book’s summary.
Nicole Cooke-Johnson, the granddaughter of Sam Cooke, highlighted the significance of ‘A Change Is Gonna Come’. She expressed that the song continues to resonate deeply, offering a soulful and hopeful message that transcends time and remains relevant in inspiring change, compassion, and resilience even today. The book aims to introduce this iconic song to younger generations in a format that directly appeals to them, instilling values of hope, perseverance, and the belief in the possibility of change.
Sam Cooke, who passed away in 1964, is remembered as one of America’s most influential soul musicians. Aside from ‘A Change Is Gonna Come’, he released other popular hits such as ‘Twistin’ the Night Away’ and ‘You Send Me’. His legacy includes posthumous induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 1999 Grammy Awards. The illustrations within the book, created by Nikkolas Smith, draw inspiration from mid-20th century art styles and are designed to reflect the spirit of the era.
Smith, known for his art featured in various projects, found working on a narrative about Sam Cooke particularly meaningful. The artist emphasised that ‘A Change Is Gonna Come’ holds a special place within the Black community and has followed him throughout his life. He approached the task of visually interpreting this soulful masterpiece with reverence, aiming to depict the juxtaposition of injustice and hope for a more equitable society within the illustrations. Smith’s vintage art style and brushstroke design pay homage to the era in which the song emerged, evoking emotive imagery reminiscent of the works of the revered photographer Gordon Parks.
The book, ‘A Change Is Gonna Come’, is slated for release on September 2nd and is currently available for pre-order. With its powerful narrative and poignant illustrations, the book serves as a tribute to Sam Cooke’s enduring legacy and his message of hope, resilience, and the inevitability of change. Through this forthcoming picture book, a new generation will have the opportunity to engage with the profound words and themes encapsulated in Cooke’s seminal song, ensuring that his spirit and message endure for years to come.