Quiet reflection for Nina Moné often brings out the loudest voice. She's a songwriter from Buffalo, inspired by what's happening around her – around all of us. 

"I paint a picture with words. Powerful words that mean a lot, for a lifetime," she said.

The pain and sadness she felt after the death of George Floyd at the hands of police sparked this project, a song she's calls "Vintage,” about what people of color face in the U.S.

One verse centers around Floyd and the tragic moments leading to his demise. The words "I can't breathe" are repeated throughout the song. She fears for the lives of her brothers and herself. 

Nina, 20, hopes to use the tools she's been blessed with to send a message and make a difference for the Black Lives Matter movement and those who seek social justice.

In the basement of her father's Cheektowaga house is a small recording studio. And it's where Nina makes her words on the paper come alive through the sound of her voice.

She sings in the chorus, "Vintage,  just like a picture, I hate to see the world get so bitter. Social media don't make it better. Stop the violence and let's come together."

Terrance Brown listens with the pride of a father, sharing his passion with his daughter. He's produced and performed for decades, under the name T Brizzy. 

"Oh yeah, Nina, she was born for this," Brown said. "I've been doing music for like over 20 years and she's been a part of that."

The music video for Vintage was shot at Delaware Park and the song's been played on the radio on 93.7 FM in Buffalo. The song references slavery, racism, police brutality and African American culture among many topics.

Nina, a graduate of Buffalo Academy of Visual and Performing Arts, hopes the attention can serve two purposes: to help her dream of becoming a professional recording artist, and use the power of music to create change.

"Just to love one another and unity is everything. Peace is everything. It's what brings joy in your life," she said.