Jon Batiste - Salve Regina University - Commencement Address - May 21, 2017

2017 Salve Regina University honorary degree recipient Jon Batiste inspires the graduating class with his music and his message.
Newport, Rhode Island USA
salve.edu

[@danielagioseffi579]

I like that Batiste is vegetarian and he doesn't drink alcohol or take drugs. He is an example of a descent human being who wants to do good and be ethical, and he is a fabulous accessible musician besides. He is a very decent human being who STAYS HUMAN.

[@pa8w]

"... don't change who you are to fit the circumstance around you ...." , Batiste is so much more than an exceptional musician

[@saunsiaraybroussard9967]

Facts! My cousin really is much more than an exceptional musician!

[@kcho777]

One of the most inspirational speeches!!🎩🙌🎵

[@skippy9659]

Absolutely true. This man is the light.. we must allow us to let him lead us into happiness

[@nonenone4360]

As an empath I can sense it is true, this man is so much more than a musician, he is a healer of the soul. A facinating human.

[@55lisadiane]

This brilliant man is a gift to the world. I love him.

[@mrscooeesrhyme.stories]

yes he's special

[@lisaferrin362]

Same! I love this guy! A class act! So kind, so humble! He's doing great things in the world!

[@catjohnson007]

Indeed he is -- a true inspiration.

[@kathleen4376]

The world needs more healers and peacemakers like Jon . Blessings for sharing and caring .

[@breal7277]

Oh, and one more thing...that Steven Colbert guy is LUCKY to have found Jon for his show.

[@akaydogan]

I am an atheist, but I can completely respect Mr. Batiste's values. His articulate, thoughful and inspirational commencement address is one that everyone should hear.

[@michelebenedosso3899]

Stephen Colbert understands what a gem Jon Batiste is…takes one to know one. ⭐️⭐️❤️❤️

[@kcho777]

Yess!! 💜🎵

[@pamelasimsjones557]

This is one of the best commencement speeches ever. Dr. Jon Baptiste is the epitome of intellect, soul, style, compassion, empathy, kindness and musicianship. Love everything about him. And he's so fine!

[@kcho777]

Amen!💜🎵

[@JGC23]

Impressive resume 👏 👌

[@GH-oi2jf]

Batiste

[@Angie-ci1lp]

Amen

[@georgelopez_504]

congrats on the Grammy awards. Well deserved.

[@annemacleod1421]

Oh that smile just melts you…may it strengthen his beautiful wife as she gives her all to conquer cancer for a second time. 12April2022 🇳🇿🇳🇿🐑🐑NZ. He brings such joy. He is a worthy recipient.

[@margaretreid8480]

My soul has been blessed. My spirits lifted higher. Thank God for Johnathan.

[@brooklyna007]

Jon Batiste barely looks at his script. He speaks out of his heart.

[@mindtheprivacy]

Or as he calls it: he improvises.

[@breal7277]

Wow! I'm impressed. Not only is he beautiful and incredibly talented but he's also smart and genuinely kind.

[@reid4028]

"Embrace the uncomfortable and make sense out of it."

[@kathryntanner9796]

Only 30 when he gave this address??? Great wisdom here. What's lucky students to have been there

[@cjjackson2475]

Define who you are, Define who you want to be, Who you can help along the way. Brilliant, raw truth, beautiful faith. ⚘❤🕊🍃

[@tabaxikhajit4541]

Thank you for being you. I so respect your consideration to the other recipient. You are a man of class.

[@robertperry3807]

That's got to be one of the best commencement messages ever.

[@deedreamccarthy6666]

He has added getting married and 8 wins at the Grammy Awards as of this year. This man has so much more to give it boggles the mind. Talented ,blessed, ambitious are words that does describe him tho they do seem to fall a bit short.

[@joem1070]

As a Berklee alumni, I love Jon and his use of a simple instrument. For you don’t need a grand piano, a million dollar violin. You just pour your soul into you music . . .

[@roviannematovu8136]

Only just discovered him. What a talented beautiful and graceful man.

[@nlbhaduri]

I could have used this commencement speech when I graduated way back in 1985, Jon wasn’t even born yet and look how deep his soul is! I love his humour, his musicianship and creativity, his positivity and grace. He is beyond classification and religion. He is a great human being.

[@feathermtn1490]

That was so beautiful! It could not be more apparent that Jon Batiste's spirit shines so bright, it is seen from the heavens. 💖

[@cwatson1975]

That has to be the best commencement speech. In just moments he took a half sleeping bored crowd to being engaged, laughing and clapping. He is a musical genius and an intelligent gentleman with a beautiful soul.

[@dragonfly4484]

That man exudes the peace and joy that all men should carry with them whereever they go .. Bless you Jon

[@WilliamJCroft]

The writing exercise at 16:15 is profound: "This is who I am", your qualities and loves on one sheet of paper. On a second sheet, "These are my prayers": who, what, and how you want to serve other people with that first list.

[@patriciachamberlain1135]

Amazing man, playing an amazing version of Amazing Grace.

[@franfran6152]

By 5:50 he had me! What a brilliant introduction to his speech. Oh the layers!

[@geebee1514]

Blessingsssssssssss for this lovely man!!!!

[@LetJusticeRoll]

Terrific commencement speech! What a guy.

[@dlg5485]

I'm not a religious person at all. However, I appreciate when a religious person uses their faith as inspiration to help and uplift others, like Jon does. Unfortunately, too many religious people, especially here in the USA, are selfish and use their faith as justification to oppress people and impose their backward values. Being religious use to mean you were open hearted and forgiving, but now it more often seems to predict self-righteousness and self-importance, which is why so many have turned away from it. In nay case, great speech, Jon. Keep on inspiring young people.

[@coldtruth6354]

Even as a Muslim I agree.

[@debracottrill7989]

Always remember that religion is a set of beliefs, the constructs of your life. Jesus wasn't religious, he was a man that knew who he was and lived accordingly. Jon was expressing what that means. 💚🌱

[@lauramcg2481]

@@coldtruth6354gg

[@jwnurse5719]

Hear, hear!

[@joannabayles971]

Wow. After watching late night I had no idea who this man way...I knew he was a brilliant musician but seriously, he is something else.

[@Chris-ng9zi]

I was mesmerized by your commencement address. Your honesty, genuineness and thoughtfulness shone through. I was moved and uplifted. God bless you.

[@estherwiskel6550]

I’m so encouraged by this beautiful man and his thinking. He is influencing many of us and hopefully it will be contagious and encourage unity, love and joy and above ALL understanding and respect. Thank you DR Bautiste

[@jenniferkumar2909]

Now this is a commencement speech!!

[@arthurtrauer5684]

Very moving. Wise words that work in any situation for anybody. Thank you Jon for being a positive roll model, even at such a young age. Congratulations to all the graduates, you will never regret your education as part of your journey through life. Be safe, find love and have fun. It’s your world and your responsibility. I feel sure you will make it a better place.

[@albertndze]

Thought he was just a great pianist, then realized he was all instrument. Then I thought he got just a great smile then I realized he is a great poet. Then I thought he was just a good guy but realized he is super spiritual. Who is Dr John B.

[@beverleycouture2076]

He is the epitome of what he was telling the graduating class, he is really someting.

[@wilheminaboone1107]

Well stated! You are simply Wonderful!🤗

[@karenjones9269]

His timing with everything is genius

[@Veronique487]

to have an internal fortitude amidst the chaos......you have to have that....Wise words that can be applied at this time of chaos. Thanks Jon.👏🏼🙏🏼

[@deedee9543]

I love and and have the upmost respect for Jon Batiste his music lyrics touches the soul in the most profound ways he is a earth angel great speech too the graduates from his heart and soul blessings always Jon Batiste 🙏🏾

[@Nansense1023]

Such talent, gentleness and a beautiful spirit❤️

[@kcho777]

Yes, gentle and beautiful soul! 💜🎵

[@maryerichardson8302]

Beautiful speech. Beautiful man. 👏👏👏

[@darlenelogoluso1552]

WHAT A GRACIOUS YOUNG MAN, GOD BLESS YOU JON 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@rachelbennett9498]

Dr of Joy and Happiness to the World! We are so very proud of you! March 11, 2022.💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖 I march to my own beat, often not in step with others. As a former member of the Army, I had to learn to march in step with others while in a formation. Once out of formation, I go back to my own steps. May the Lord keep blessing us all!

[@antieverything8476]

i love this man and his thoughts! god bless him and give him continued succcess

[@hotspot930]

One of the best speeches I‘ve heard. Divine, soulful, full of wisdom and real life sharing of experiences.

[@joannedevilliers6448]

Such an inspirational individual. Awesome human. We need more awesome humans. Well done Jon Batiste!

[@mariafargeorge1202]

In life, if you're lucky, someone comes along who warms your heart. Jon warms my heart!! ❤

[@vickiwiley4424]

Jon Baptiste is sucha beautiful soul… and He actually walks his talk!

[@ravipeiris4388]

Amazing, simply amazing introductory speech as well. I've watched the first 6 minutes of this video several times now. Intonation and timing is everything: Mr. Batiste made that point clear here. Ravi Peiris M.D.

[@Pjaysusity]

I love this guy. Inspirational 🇹🇹🔥

[@alanmorris7669]

I've been playing a Melodica for years. Ever since I saw Stevie Wonder play one, I've been hooked on its sound. This rendition of Amazing Grace was fabulous!

[@321snoot]

Me, too, Alan. I got one for Christmas around 1968 (I was 10). Bought a new Hohner similar to Jon's couple of years ago. Cool little instrument, eh? Sounds great in Jon's hands! (And Stevie's, too, naturally.)

[@karenhurd1256]

He is just such a cool, cool dude! So sweet and gentle in every way! A very special man and entertainer- glad to hear he takes love advice from Steven! So happy he’s getting the recognition of his peers! Looking forward to hearing more from this prolific soul! … and Kudos on the marriage ! Two very special young people who surely found their soulmate! God bless!

[@yousefal-otaibi150]

This is the most emotional and beautiful speech I've ever seen

[@smittysax]

Well deserved....Jon Batiste is awesome !!!

[@monayolanda7797]

I discovered Jon watching the Stephen Colbert show, where I felt he was not previously showcased enough. But Jon took it all in stride. I introduced my son to his work last night. He's truly a gift from heaven. Whenever I'm next in the USA I will find where he's performing and enjoy this beautiful soul.

[@tjordan4120]

John, you are such an eloquent, charismatic, talented gentleman. May God continue to bless you. P.S. you're not hard on the ladies eyes. I truly adore you!

[@qkranarchist3015]

An amazing man. Grateful to be getting more chances to hear him speak, play, and share his joys.

[@lorettaloveland7755]

Talented in spirit and well as music! Joy for Dr Jon

[@mariansmith7694]

A GREAT TALENT!

[@patriciapatterson6601]

Love him!

[@trinameyer7395]

Thank you Doctor Jon! I am moved and was made more thoughtful by your words and music. Thank you for your "Amazing Grace". I feel that you must live it. Amen.

[@kallurisaikrishna862]

Wow!!! ... Fantastic, inspirational and amazing speech. One of the best I ever came across. If I become great one day, I would quote Jon Batiste as one of my inspirations :) Congrats Dr. Batiste :)

[@mbstrom4766]

09 SRU alum here, great job Jon and congrats class of 2017! Listen to what this man said, that is some amazing guidance, it will serve you well. 💙

[@juliecolorado3248]

You are an amazing human. We need more people like you to inspire joy, hope and love.

[@jerseydotcom7370]

Just came across your video. Totally awesome and very inspiring. Thank you for sharing!!!

[@bonnieoliver219]

A Master of Music and Humanity.

[@estrellarono2234]

Congratulations! Amazing! Its a joy to listen to his music ❤️🙏👏🎉

[@FlaviaSilva-zw2mu]

This was so sweet! Like everything that man does. ❤️

[@clevelandpianostudio]

His version of "Amazing Grace" is so beautiful!!

[@stanmarcus1]

Jon's talk brought tears to my eyes. I have so much trouble being myself.

[@donaldstreeter5740]

Thank you!!🙏🏿

[@andizhanstuey]

Extraordinary ❤️❤️❤️

[@marydonald9071]

BIG WOW much respect for this young man

[@daisybernardo2733]

Wow very impressive speech and Divine music ,🙏🥰👍

[@Pjaysusity]

Did I just post that I love this dude.....??? Heck! That was premature...I didn't expect the passionate AG delivery, at the end. It brought the onions to this over 50 dude. 🇹🇹

[@greggc.6143]

Awesome and inspiring!

[@sheilalaury4641]

Just so Blessed of God, by Dr. Jon Batiste's depth of who he has been created to be and how he is walking out his purpose through his many gifts and talents. All of those things cemented in him expressing God's love and compassion for others. I will definitely share this powerful lessons on navigating life at any age. Thank you for being a yielded vessel in sharing ... as the old Gospel song lyrics say....: As I look back and wonder .... How I got over.. Continue to be Blessed and be a Blessing. Thank You!😊

[@user-cv2nr9jy4z]

John B. and his musically gifted family - what a gift to us all!

[@sheilac5319]

This man is a gifted Legend To Be. Just Listen to my Baby Bro Teacha' here, please.

[@snnetteachexnayder63]

This brought joyful tears to my eyes💖

[@breal7277]

Congratulations, Dr Batiste.

[@jacquiebain9148]

Wow what a simplistic man of great humility and character!

[@everycoLor_312]

eloquent introduction/honor for deserving artist

[@roxannamarinak3156]

What a very special and gifted human being who wants to give the world Love!!!

[@ericab936]

I did not know who he was till the awards show 2022 when he won almost every thing. Wow what an exceptional human being. Blessed in every way.

[@ronjohn9484]

What a beautiful human

[@clumsiii]

i had shivers when the crowd started to clap. thank you for the list ideas!!

[@virginiadouglas9449]

well done Sir Jon Batiste thank you God bless you

[@irenegathuru9391]

What an amazing man. He is the epitome of musical genius!

[@DonBrowne]

Congratulations Dr. Batiste!

[@JohnBosco.1308]

Incredible person and a fantastical musician. There is a lot to love about this guy, Jon Baptiste

[@HeavenlyBridegroomMusic]

Yes Sir! Amazing GRace

[@MattWeisherComposer]

What a beautiful man. How’s everybody feeling today? Let me play some music. Let me lift you up. “HOW’S EVERYBODY FEELING TODAY?!” I’m so proud of what our craft can do for the public. I thought of this this morning…and someone’s said it, I’m sure: I would take any doctorate, but I would be remiss if I didn’t say that a doctorate in music would be hard because in reality music has doctored me.

[@leslieniglio874]

An amazing gift to the world....may we cultivate more Gems like Jon

[@Johnmell100]

This man is a legend!!

[@donnalynne7510]

Bravo Dr from 🇨🇦

[@55lisadiane]

And closing with a gorgeous rendition of one of my favorite gospel tunes. ❤

[@sinderabrissett4105]

When I heard Freedom from His Album i said i have to buy that Album not knowing that a little over a year later he would win a grammy for His Album and the Song Freedom would have been so contagious and well received. One of my favorite!! Jon Batiste is just a special spiritual person full of love and light

[@andrewwillmore3501]

Congratulations Dr. Batiste!

[@budzski42]

Wow, well spoken Dr. Jon. Bravo Maestro.

[@jenniferrazon5057]

Amazing young man💕😍😍😍🙏🙏🙏