Secrets Behind the Making Of Selma
- By
Nneka Samuel
Image: Apega/WENN.com
Playing Mahalia Jackson
Singer Ledisi discovered a lot about Mahalia Jackson while preparing to play her in Selma, and grew to respect the late singer even more. “I was so proud and afraid to play the part, because it’s such big shoes to fill. But when [costume designer] Ruth E. Carter put the costume on me, I just started crying. I said, “Oh wow, I’m no longer me. I’m Mahalia. I have to be her and hold up this banner of what she created.” She’s from New Orleans; I’m from New Orleans. We grew up in the same area. I visited her grave and thanked her and honored her. I really studied Mahalia and learned about her. I now fully appreciate and have a newfound respect for her. She did more than just sing.”
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