R.J. Owens is the author of several picture books for young readers, including Walk the Walk. A Song So Black, So Proud! was inspired by James Brown’s transformation as an artist during the civil rights movement, culminating in his creation of the timeless self-pride anthem “Say It Loud—I’m Black and I’m Proud.” R.J. is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and an avid student of popular music who never leaves home without his blues harp.