"Peace Go With You, Brother (Wa-Alaikum-Salaam)" is a song by Gil Scott-Heron from his album "Winter in America" released in 1974. The lyrics highlight the importance of unity, understanding, and peace among individuals, specifically referring to the brotherhood between African Americans and Muslims. The song begins by acknowledging that time is limited and it is futile to argue or create divisions. Scott-Heron emphasizes that the consequences of our actions and mistakes will eventually affect not only us but also our future generations, as mentioned in the line "All of your children and all of my children are gonna have to pay for our mistakes someday." The phrase "Wa-Alaikum-Salaam" is an Islamic greeting meaning "peace be upon you," which reflects the message of unity and goodwill across different communities. Scott-Heron uses this phrase to convey his desire for peaceful coexistence between African Americans and Muslims. He wishes peace for everyone, symbolizing the need for harmony in society. Overall, the song urges listeners to pursue peace and understanding, bridging the gaps between different racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds. Scott-Heron aims to inspire unity and empathy as a means to overcome the challenges faced by society.
