The Soundtrack Behind the Script: Songs That Shaped My Screenplay

Whenever I start writing, I always think of the playlist first, and it will take me hours to curate the right music. Heck, I'm listening to the music now! While writing The First Save, I leaned heavily on music to anchor me in the emotional truth of each scene. These weren’t just background tracks — they were portals. Each song helped me step into the shoes of my characters, to feel what they might have felt, and to stay grounded in the social, emotional, and historical landscape of 1968.

The following tracks played a considerable role in shaping the film’s tone and texture. Some reminded me of the fight for justice, others underscored moments of personal reflection, tension, or triumph. They helped me visualize Alexander, Terry, Jackie, and even Billy. They were my creative fuel during the long hours of research and writing. Here are a few that stayed on repeat: "Eden (Harlem)" by Nicolas Britell Britell’s haunting strings and subdued power helped me access Alexander’s interior world — quiet resolve wrapped in tension.

"To Be Young, Gifted and Black" by Nina Simone This was my anthem. My pride. My fire. My hope for something greater. When I was younger, it was hard for me to accept my blackness, my heritage. This song is something I come back to regularly. As I was writing my story, I had to remind myself that they were gifted too.

"Harriet Comes Home" by Terence Blanchard

A spiritual guide through moments of reflection, grief, and grace.

"Agape" by Nicolas Britell

Played often when writing scenes of loyalty and brotherhood, especially between Alexander and Terry.

"MLK Assassinated" by Terence Blanchard

This track anchored me when writing the riot scenes — capturing the raw pain, confusion, and rage that shook the Hill.

"A Change is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke

The emotional heartbeat of the story. It’s the promise — and the doubt — that lingers through every page.

"Over There" by Terence Blanchard

Filled with a quiet intensity, this track helped me write the moments of transition — from stillness to action, from fear to purpose.

"War" by Edwin Starr

A protest in every beat. This one helped build the pressure, the urgency, the stakes.

"Speak Now" by Leslie Odom Jr.

Reminded me of what’s at risk when you stay silent. A song about voice — and using it when it counts.

"Lean On Me" by Bill Withers

The emotional bedrock. When friendship, sacrifice, and service are all that’s left to hold onto.

"Good to Be Here" and "It's Been a Day" by Phillip-Michael Scales

These kept me grounded in the present. They made me think about legacy and what it means to reflect on where you came from.

"Ain’t No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

This one reminded me that no matter the obstacle, love and determination can carry us forward.

When you see The First Save, I hope some of these tracks echo the emotion you might feel in the film.

Stay inspired. Orlando