This Black History Month, I’m sharing art, songs, movies, and other creative expressions from and about Black women that spark joy for me. Because Black women are often not remembered for their contributions, I thought this would be one way to give flowers to those who inspire me.
For Day 27, I’m giving flowers to the singer, Ledisi
Ledisi was born in New Orleans and grew up in Oakland, two cities Ledisi says shaped her musical journey. Her debut album, Soulsinger, came out in 2000 and she’s created nearly a dozen albums since, with the latest album, Good Life, coming out in 2024. In 2021, Ledisi won a Grammy for Best Traditional R&B Performance for "Anything For You" from her 2020 album The Wild Card.
“My storytelling has different themes centered on love: intimate love, God's Love, Letting Go of Love, Receiving Love, and Self-Love. No matter what happens in life, we return to the topic of love or the lack thereof. My themes always revolve around getting through and surviving challenging times. “
In addition to songwriting and singing, Ledisi is an actress. She’s played a variety of roles, including portraying Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, and Mahalia Jackson. Twice.
Ledisi credits the singer Nina Simone as saving her life. In homage to Simone, Ledisi created an album where she covers Nina Simone’s most popular songs.
This month, Ledisi was part of the Blackity Black lineup of the Superbowl and brought us one of my favorite versions of the Black National Anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing.
Ledisi is one of those artists who refuses to be bound by labels. Over the years, she’s launched a record company, a publishing arm, and a film production company.
“I am finally realizing my limitless potential as a creative and also now as a businesswoman.”
Thank you, Ledisi, for reminding us that our creativity has no bounds.
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