John Lewis: The Conscience of Congress in a Hip-Hop Musical

A new musical explores the life and legacy of civil rights icon John Lewis through the power of music and storytelling.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:51am

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A bold, abstract composition featuring stark, jagged geometric shapes and heavy black silhouettes in a high-contrast color palette, conceptually representing the life and legacy of civil rights icon John Lewis.This minimalist, Saul Bass-inspired illustration captures the powerful and enduring impact of civil rights leader John Lewis, whose life and activism are the focus of a new hip-hop musical.Atlanta Today

A new musical production is set to debut in Washington, D.C., exploring the life and legacy of civil rights leader and longtime Congressman John Lewis. The musical, initially envisioned as a play, has undergone an evolution, shifting to a hip-hop-infused score that aims to capture the essence of Lewis' activism and impact. The creative team, led by playwright Psalmayene 24, has worked to refine the musical, adding depth and emotion through the fusion of history, music, and social commentary.

Why it matters

This musical represents an artistic exploration of John Lewis' life and the role of conscience in leadership and activism. By using the medium of hip-hop, the production aims to make Lewis' story accessible and relevant to a diverse audience, highlighting the enduring impact of civil rights movements and the power of art to inspire meaningful conversations.

The details

The musical's journey has been one of creative evolution. Initially conceived as a play, the story of John Lewis' early activism demanded a different medium, leading the playwright, Psalmayene 24, to shift the production to a musical format. After its world premiere in Atlanta, the musical underwent further transformation, with the playwright collaborating with a new composer to refresh the score. This decision showcases the commitment to perfecting the artistic vision and the understanding that art is often a work in progress.

  • The musical is set to make its D.C. debut in 2026.
  • The musical had its world premiere in Atlanta prior to the D.C. debut.

The players

Psalmayene 24

The playwright who initially envisioned the story of John Lewis as a play and then adapted it into a musical production.

John Lewis

A civil rights icon and longtime Congressman, whose life and legacy are the focus of the musical.

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What they’re saying

“The journey of this musical is a testament to the creative process. Initially envisioned as a play, the story of John Lewis' early activism demanded a different medium.”

— Psalmayene 24, Playwright

What’s next

The musical is set to make its highly anticipated debut in Washington, D.C. in 2026, where audiences will have the opportunity to experience the powerful fusion of history, music, and social commentary.

The takeaway

This musical production serves as a testament to the enduring impact of civil rights movements and the ability of art to inspire meaningful conversations. By exploring the life and legacy of John Lewis through the lens of hip-hop, the creative team aims to make his story accessible and relevant to a diverse audience, highlighting the importance of conscience in leadership and the transformative power of activism.