Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Beat.
Nevertheless, New Orleans Persists
October 2018. A friend of 5 years had been planning an evening at Brooklyn Steel to witness a double header featuring Big Freedia and the headliner, Tank and the Bangas. I was beside myself. It was an immediate, resounding yes.
By Marquis D. Gibson3 years ago in Beat
Lex Amor - ‘How can I fear What I can Scatter?’
As I sit here, thinking about all the black women in the music industry that have inspired me somehow, I can’t help but reminisce over the rollercoaster of events that have led me to where I am today. I think about how music and creativity have impacted my life in so many ways. While I ponder these thoughts, I realise that music has greatly influenced my writing abilities thus far.
By Beverly Bossanga3 years ago in Beat
Top of the Vox
There are voices, and there are voices. Voices that find you at certain moments in your life when you need a little guidance or a sonic nudge in the right direction. They swoop in, fix your frequency and keep it moving. I have selected ten such voices from my life soundtrack, ten stars in the firmament of Black women who, musically, had a hand, and voice, in raising me. Muhammad Ali once said, about Larry Holmes, “Musically speaking, if he don't C sharp, he'll B flat.” These incredible vocalists have all helped me see sharper, and without their songs my life would definitely feel flat. Here they are, in chronological order.
By Desta Haile3 years ago in Beat
So Into You: Black Women in Rhythm & Blues
You've spoken love into existence. Written your pain in stone halls that reverberate in the hearts of lesser men. Woven phrases into cloaks that cover the body and reveals the soul. Transforming us, your voices cause the listener to long for your loving touch.
By Rhinehart Ellison3 years ago in Beat
The Surfacing of a Hidden Gem
I know that most writers writing about this topic may want to start from the beginning of a musical era. Shining light on the black women musicians from the 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, and even the 90’s- but I would like to take the time to shine light on the new age artists. Just one in particular, Jhene Aiko Efuru Chilombo. Contrary to popular belief, Jhene just might be one of the most overlooked and underrated artists of today. Not only is she a singer/songwriter with a majestical and somewhat angelic sound, she is a musical healer. She incorporates sound healing bowls throughout her music to allow the frequencies from the bowls to resonate with your chakras; truly channeling your inner emotions and really connecting with the listener on a deeper level. Before you form your opinion, let me further explain. Black women from those early eras previously mentioned have paved the way for many. I grew up listening to some of the greats. My introduction to these women through my elders have shaped my life, and transformed me in indescribable ways. Some of the greats that I am referring to would be Carmen Jones, Roberta Flack, Etta James, Ann Peebles, Nina Simone, Deniece Williams, The Clark Sisters, Whitney Houston, and the list goes on. These women possessed a quality that was undeniable, and they outshined their competition. I loved music because of them; but I never aspired to be like them. In fact, hearing their tones and vocal capabilities discouraged me. In some way, all of their voices were strong and dominant. Their voices were unique like mine, but still met the industry’s standards of being considered a “real” singer unlike mine. It wasn't until I discovered Jhene, that I realized that I too, may have an actual chance at becoming a singer myself.
By Ariyon Wells3 years ago in Beat
Inspirational Woman of music
Whether you realize it or not, we are all authors of our own stories. Each and every day when we wake up, we are deciding what type of character we are going to be. The gift you were born with can come in any shape, size, or form. However, what you choose to do with that gift, is what matters the most. Not all heroes wear capes . The essence and contributions of Black women are evident in the music industry.Whenever I think of a black women there’s two words that comes to mind: strength and resilience.
By IAM SimplyShan3 years ago in Beat