Heavy rotation
Ari Lennox and Valerie June. These two beautiful women have given my heart so much solace this season, and their music is in heavy rotation at my place.
Ari’s 2019 debut album, Shea Butter Baby, is vulnerable, irreverent, and soulful. She taps into the raw emotions associated with breakups, and the boundaries women create to stay whole. Her recipe for self-care includes dancing nude around your apartment and wisely saving your heart until you are 43 and old enough to decipher bullshit. Lennox’s album reminds me of how fierce and lovely black women are and how lucky are those who get to share sacred space with us.
Valerie belts out melodic raspy vocals underscored by her acoustic guitar and country riffs. She is remarkably supple and inviting, reminding us that we have the power to embody all of our quirks and passions unapologetically. She invites us to try something new but timeless. She is unabashedly unique and gives women permission to do the same. Her body of work includes albums like Pushin’ Against a Stone and The Moon and Stars, both play like instruction manuals for life and true contentment.
Take a listen, or let me know what albums are in heavy rotation for you.
Until next time, be well.