Baltimore Children's Choir Performance Of 'Rise Up' Goes Viral

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A Baltimore choir's performance has gone viral with more than 8 million views on social media.

Last month, choir director Kenyatta Hardison posted a video on Facebook of her students at Cardinal Shehan School singing Andra Day's song "Rise Up."

Hardison and the students say they had no idea the song would affect so many people and it shows how powerful music can be.

"The children are speaking, the children are giving the message, they're leading us," Hardison said. "This is part of Baltimore, there is hope, kids with compassion, kids who love and spread peace, who believe in one another."

The students rehearsed for the Archdiocese of Baltimore's 9th Annual Gala for Catholic Schools.

Hardison chose Andra Day's song "Rise Up" because of the uplifting message.

"It feels like we can do anything and have an awesome impact on the world," said Jalen, an eight grader.

"See this video help them feel better, and make them think they can get through it," said Carlyse, a fifth grader.

"That's why the lord created us all. He wants us to have a purpose in this world," said John, a sixth grader. "We're not finished yet. We have a lot more work to do, but when it's time for us to leave it, means our job here is done."

Since the performance went viral, the choir has received many requests to perform, including for a network in New York.

The video quickly spread around the world and heartwarming messages poured in thanking the students for their uplifting performance.

You can watch it above.

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