I have been quiet for a while and I am back from a much-needed rest. I begin with honor and choose February to reignite my practice of writing. I begin with Black History Month.
February marks Black History Month. A time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration.
One of the things I am grateful for is how music has made an impact on my life and experience. I won’t even begin to do justice about these words I am about to share here.
I go back full circle with jazz, how it has shown up for me. Drummers who I have encountered in my life from watching live shows with a drummer friend have strengthened my love and respect for music. People tap into a spirit within themselves. To me, it is jazz. It is poetry in rhythm and harmony. Beyond words of longing, love, dreams, hopes, and respect.
In celebration of Black History Month, I pay respects to all the artists out there, the legends, the poets, the dreamers, writers, teachers, those of service, and YOU.
And with this, I also take time to discover artists who continue to push boundaries just like the legends and ancestors. I thank you all. The work to be curious, educate oneself continues. It is all interconnected.
I share some playlists in the hopes you will find inspiration and joy too. Thanks for being here. :) Aiko