Chloe x Halle: Finding Hope, Voice, and Healing Amidst Black Lives Matter Protests and ‘Ungodly Hour’ Delay

R&B powerhouse duo Chloe x Halle have emerged as powerful voices during a pivotal moment in history, offering a profound message of hope and resilience in the face of ongoing social unrest. The sisters, known for their ethereal harmonies and groundbreaking artistry, made the conscientious decision to postpone the release of their highly anticipated second album, Ungodly Hour, in direct response to the widespread Black Lives Matter protests that swept across the nation and globally. This strategic delay, a testament to their commitment to social justice, allowed them to amplify critical conversations rather than draw attention to their artistic endeavors.

In a recent candid discussion for TIME 100 Talks, Chloe and Halle shared their deeply personal reflections on the preceding “overwhelming” weeks following George Floyd’s tragic death at the hands of law enforcement. Their decision to halt their album’s rollout stemmed from an innate understanding of the gravity of the situation. “It wasn’t right; we didn’t want the attention on us. We wanted to shine a light on what matters the most to us at this time,” explained Chloe Bailey, 21, articulating the duo’s unified stance and unwavering dedication to the movement for racial equality. Their actions underscore a growing trend among artists who leverage their platforms to advocate for systemic change, prioritizing human dignity over commercial success.

Chloe further elaborated on the emotional toll these events have taken, acknowledging the collective pain and anguish felt within the Black community and beyond. “These past two weeks have been very overwhelming; we’ve been hurting, we’ve been in pain.” However, amidst this profound sorrow, a powerful sense of optimism has emerged for the sisters. “But we’re also very hopeful, because our peers are raising our voices and we’re letting ourselves be heard and not backing down and taking no for an answer.” This sentiment highlights a critical aspect of the current movement: the collective strength and unwavering determination of a generation demanding justice and accountability. The enduring injustices, as Chloe noted, “have been going on for a very, very long time,” yet she finds solace in the unprecedented global attention now being directed towards these deeply entrenched issues. “I’m happy now the entire world is paying attention,” she concluded, emphasizing the monumental shift in awareness and engagement.

The journey of Chloe x Halle has been significantly shaped by the mentorship of none other than music icon Beyoncé, who signed them as teenagers. Their bond with Queen Bey extends beyond professional guidance, becoming a wellspring of personal inspiration. Halle Bailey, 20, reflected on the profound impact Beyoncé has had on their understanding of self-worth and power. “It’s a reminder: I have the power in me, you have the power in you, we can do that too.” This powerful mantra, instilled by observing Beyoncé’s unparalleled work ethic, immense influence, and unshakeable confidence, has become a cornerstone of their own burgeoning careers and their commitment to social activism. Beyoncé’s example empowers them to recognize their own inherent strength and use it to drive positive change, echoing the call for self-empowerment that is central to the Black Lives Matter movement.

Beyond their high-profile music careers and activism, which include gracing the cover ofTeen Vogue and collaborating with esteemed artists, the sisters have navigated the complexities of quarantine life. Like many, they have found solace in everyday activities, indulging in reality TV, soaking up the sun, and, most crucially, turning to music. “That’s immediately what we run to,” Halle shared, highlighting music’s role as a constant source of comfort and escape. During these tumultuous weeks, music has been “the number one thing,” providing a much-needed emotional anchor and creative outlet amidst the emotional intensity of current events. This reliance on music is particularly poignant given their own vocation, reinforcing the universal power of art to heal and provide perspective.

In their conversation with TIME, the sisters also emphasized the paramount importance of self-care and setting boundaries, particularly concerning social media consumption during these unprecedented times. Halle offered poignant advice, stating, “It’s O.K. to take breaks from social media. Especially for our Black brothers and sisters: it’s traumatizing, some of the videos that you see.” This acknowledgment of the psychological burden of witnessing racial injustice unfold online is crucial. She urged individuals to “just step away, meditate, have prayer, turn to music, turn to healing, turn to some art form that brings you peace.” This holistic approach to mental well-being serves as a vital reminder that processing trauma requires deliberate effort and the cultivation of inner peace.

Chloe echoed this sentiment, firmly believing in music’s therapeutic qualities. “We truly believe music is a healer, and we hope that’s what our album can do for anyone who’s still feeling icky inside, and upset, and angry.” The delay of Ungodly Hour, while a conscious act of solidarity, also imbues the album with deeper significance. For Chloe, the 45-minute listening experience is envisioned as a sanctuary, “a release, in a way,” offering listeners a temporary respite from the anxieties and frustrations of the world. This perspective transforms their music from mere entertainment into a tool for emotional processing and collective healing, aligning perfectly with their desire to contribute positively to the current climate of change and reflection.

The album title itself, Ungodly Hour, takes on new layers of meaning in the context of racial injustice. It speaks to those dark periods of societal turmoil and personal struggle, moments when hope feels distant and the world seems out of balance. Through their music, Chloe x Halle aim to illuminate these “ungodly hours” with their unique blend of spiritual and contemporary R&B. They craft intricate soundscapes that invite introspection, providing a soundtrack for resilience and self-discovery. Their artistry becomes a beacon, guiding listeners through the emotional complexities of anger, sorrow, and ultimately, the enduring power of hope. The album, therefore, isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s an experience designed to resonate with the current collective consciousness, offering understanding and solace to those grappling with pain and seeking connection.

As young Black women navigating the complexities of fame and activism, Chloe x Halle exemplify a new generation of artists who refuse to compartmentalize their identities. Their commitment to the Black Lives Matter movement is not a fleeting trend but an integral part of who they are and the message they wish to convey through their art. By delaying their album and openly discussing their vulnerability and hope, they have demonstrated genuine leadership and an unwavering dedication to social justice. They understand the responsibility that comes with their platform and are utilizing it to foster dialogue, encourage self-care, and ultimately, inspire meaningful change. Their message resonates deeply because it is authentic, born from their own experiences and their profound empathy for their community.

In a world grappling with systemic inequities and the urgent need for empathy, Chloe x Halle stand as powerful advocates for healing and progress. Their voices, both literally and figuratively, contribute to the chorus demanding justice and equality. Through their music and their activism, they reinforce the idea that art is not just an escape, but a vital force for transformation, capable of comforting the afflicted and challenging the status quo. The sisters continue to inspire by demonstrating that even in the face of profound adversity, hope can be found, voices can be heard, and collective action can pave the way for a more just and equitable future.