Monifa Brown sends her love, Shirley

If Shirley Horn mastered any technique, it was the ability to embody the emotion of a song. Horn would take a simple line - "a time for summer skies" comes to mind - and make it, well, poetic. Afternoon Jazz host Monifa Brown couldn't agree more. "Shirley Horn was one of my all-time favorites," she says. "And like many, I am so sad to hear of her passing." To capture her profound admiration, Brown penned a poem "We Won't Forget You, Shirley Horn", which she debuted on-air several days ago. If you didn't hear the poem then, click here to read it. Thank you, Monifa.

We Won't Forget You Shirley Horn by Monifa Brown

You whispered you won't forget me and we won't forget you...
How could we?
In a single phrase you enraptured us in the magic of your silky, spine tingling, and meditative voice
Ever commanding, ever inviting, so completely yours
You were a thrill
Your mood drenched notes unfolded into the crevices of your moonlit chords and haunting melodies
Each pause drawing us closer to the intimacy of your soul
No where to go and nothing to do but be in the moment and openness of your sonic trance
You are and forever will be The Queen of the Ballad
Subtle whispers of love found and love lost
Hammering chords swingin' in rhythm and silent moments where truth unfolds
Hushed sadness, exuberant chants and downright soulful and gritty grooves
Yours was the music that made us dance, dream and live
We won't forget you - how could we?
So here's to life and every joy its brings
Your music is close enough for love
Here's to love, here's to life, Here's to you Shirley Horn