Taste Kitchen + Bar, a beloved brunch destination in Downtown Houston, is excited to launch its new Weekly Lineup, featuring themed nights with mouthwatering food and captivating entertainment. Located at 420 Main Street, Taste has become a popular spot since its opening in late 2022, known for its elevated Southern cuisine, all-day brunch, and innovative craft cocktails.
A Week Full of Flavors and Fun
The Weekly Lineup at Taste Kitchen + Bar promises to entice taste buds and nourish souls with a range of exciting offerings each day of the week. Here’s a glimpse of the featured specialty nights:
Meat-up Monday (Steak Night): Indulge in succulent Rib Eye Steaks prepared to perfection.
Taco Tuesday with DJ Maya Papaya: Enjoy mouthwatering tacos, Margaritas, and DJ Maya Papaya’s beats from 5pm to 10pm.
Wings & Wagyu Wednesdays: Savor heavenly wings and Taste’s delicious new Wagyu Cheeseburger.
Taste Champagne R&B Thursdays featuring Marium Echo Live: Sip champagne and immerse yourself in live R&B music by Marium Echo from 8pm to 10pm.
TGIF Friday Power Happy Hour with DJ Def Jam Blaster: Kickstart your weekend with handcrafted cocktails and DJ Def Jam Blaster’s beats from 4:20pm to 8pm.
On weekends, Taste Kitchen + Bar Downtown offers a scrumptious Saturday Brunch from 11am to 4pm, followed by “The R&B Dinner” from 7pm to 11pm. Sundays feature Sunday Brunch from 11am to 4pm and a comforting “Soul Sunday Supper” from 5pm to 11pm.
A Unique Dining Experience
With three floors, two full bars, live DJs, a private dining room, and a great outdoor patio, Taste Kitchen + Bar Downtown provides a vibrant and unique casual dining experience. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of globally inspired comfort foods, signature Southern cuisine, popular brunch dishes, and over a dozen innovative Chicken & Waffles options. Taste also recently launched extended hours and new menu items for breakfast service from 8am to 11am daily.
With its new Weekly Lineup, Taste continues to exceed expectations, offering themed nights filled with exceptional food, live entertainment, and an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Downtown Houston. Taste Kitchen + Bar is open from 8am-11am every day for breakfast, with dining hours until 11pm Sunday-Thursday and until midnight on Friday and Saturday.
Creating a home that feels like a sanctuary and reflects your unique style and personality is essential for your well-being. Here are five Black-inspired home decor pieces that can help you achieve this goal:
Statement Artwork:
Choose a piece of art that speaks to your personality and interests, whether it’s a painting, sculpture, or wall hanging. This will not only add visual interest to your space, but also serve as a conversation starter for guests.
Example: A large abstract painting, a vintage movie poster, or a framed collection of your favorite album covers.
Invest in a comfortable and stylish sofa, armchair, or chaise lounge that invites relaxation and conversation. Opt for upholstery in a color or pattern that reflects your personal style.
Example: A mid-century modern sofa in a bold jewel tone, or a cozy oversized armchair in a playful pattern.
Ẹkáàbọ̀ Albany Armchairfemi by Taeillo
Personalized Lighting:
Lighting can significantly impact the mood and ambiance of a room. Choose lamps, pendant lights, or chandeliers that complement your style and provide the right level of brightness for your needs.
Example: A vintage-inspired floor lamp with an Edison bulb, or a modern geometric pendant light in a metallic finish.
TIDAL TABLE LAMPFUKI SCONCECHEB FLOOR LAMP
Unique Storage Solutions:
Keep your space organized and clutter-free with storage solutions that are both functional and visually appealing. Look for shelves, cabinets, or storage bins that match your style and can be used to display your favorite items.
Example: A reclaimed wood bookcase with industrial metal accents, or a set of woven baskets in varying sizes and colors.
Add warmth and personality to your space with a mix of textiles and accessories. Choose rugs, throw pillows, and blankets in colors and patterns that express your unique style, and add personal touches with decorative objects and plants.
Example: A patterned area rug with a mix of complementary throw pillows, a cozy knit blanket, and a collection of potted succulents on a windowsill.
RAMBLE BLACK/NATURAL AREA RUG 10’X14′PASSAGE WOVEN THROW PILLOW WITH FEATHER-DOWN INSERT 20″
By incorporating these five Black-inspired home decor pieces into your home, you can create a sanctuary that is both stylish and uniquely yours.
The Little Mermaid live-action remake has been making waves since its announcement, with fans eagerly anticipating its release, while others expressed concerns over the casting of Halle Bailey (Grown-ish, Beyonce’s Homecoming, The Lion King 2019) as Ariel.
The debates and heated discussions surrounding the movie were ugly to say the least. But now that some time has passed and people have seen it, there’s only one question on everyone’s mind: is it any good?
Music: A Modern Spin on Classic Tunes
The remake features a mix of new and old songs, with Halle Bailey and Melissa McCarthy delivering standout performances. However, the quality of the music noticeably drops when these leading ladies aren’t involved. The new songs vary from decent to boring and uninspired.
Acting: A Cast That Shines Under the Sea
Bailey and McCarthy deliver the best performances, with Ariel’s innocence and Ursula’s villainous diva persona shining through. Supporting characters, such as Prince Eric and King Triton, become more interesting when interacting with Ariel. However, Daveed Diggs‘ portrayal of Sebastian falls short due to a less-than-convincing Caribbean accent.
Courtesy of The Walt Disney Company
Special Effects: A Mixed Bag of Visuals
While the practical sets, such as Prince Eric’s castle and the vibrant marketplace, are visually stunning, the film struggles with its CGI elements. The movement of characters’ hair underwater and the CGI sea creatures are unnatural and distracting, leaving room for improvement.
A Charming, Yet Flawed Remake
This version of The Little Mermaid is simply okay, offering much to enjoy while leaving much to be desired. It’s one of the better Disney remakes, but that’s not a particularly high bar to reach. If you resist the urge to compare it to the original, you might find yourself enjoying the unique charm and magic at the core of this film.
Spring cleaning is more than just a deep clean of your home; it’s an opportunity to embrace change and growth, both literally and metaphorically. This annual ritual can help you declutter your physical space while also clearing your mind and setting new intentions for the months ahead. Here are 10 practical ways to achieve a successful spring cleaning:
Create a Plan: Outline the areas of your home that need attention and prioritize them based on importance.
Declutter: Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.
Deep Clean: Tackle areas that don’t receive regular attention, like baseboards, windows, and appliances.
Organize: Find a place for everything and establish systems to maintain order.
Refresh Your Decor: Update your home with new accessories, artwork, or linens for a fresh look.
Set Intentions: Reflect on your goals and aspirations, then create a vision board or journal to keep them front and center.
Embrace Mindfulness: Incorporate meditation, yoga, or other mindfulness practices into your routine to clear mental clutter.
Nurture Relationships: Reconnect with friends and family, and make an effort to build new connections.
Prioritize Self-Care: Schedule time for relaxation, exercise, and hobbies that bring you joy.
Celebrate Your Progress: Acknowledge your hard work and enjoy the renewed energy and clarity that comes with a successful spring cleaning.
By following these practical tips, you can transform your home and life, embracing the spirit of spring cleaning in both its literal and metaphorical sense.
Introducing the Uncle Nearest Whiskey Lemonade, a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that pays homage to the rich history of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, a Black-owned brand. This whiskey is named in honor of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known African-American master distiller who played a crucial role in perfecting the Lincoln County Process, a unique filtering method used to create Tennessee whiskey. Raise a glass to celebrate the legacy of Uncle Nearest and the spirit of Black entrepreneurship.
Uncle Nearest Whiskey Lemonade
2 oz Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1 oz simple syrup
Club soda
Lemon wheel and mint sprig for garnish
Combine whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a lemon wheel and mint sprig. Cheers! ?
Like most Black Americans, you probably know someone that won’t drive anything but a Cadillac. But, interestingly, Cadillacs weren’t initially made for Blacks. In fact, the brand had a policy that prevented Cadillacs from being sold to African Americans. It wasn’t until General Motors hit a sales slump in the 1930s that it was persuaded to be the first luxury automobile brand to market to African Americans.
In recent years, many other luxury car brands have caught the eyes of Black Americans, from Lincolns to Buicks, and the latest consumer spending trends sees Black Americans buying more luxury cars.
What’s Driving the Increase in Luxury Car Purchases by African Americans?
Income inequality and wealth gaps have made the affordability of car ownership a challenge for African Americans. Based on a 2019 survey conducted by the Federal Reserve, white families had more than eight times the wealth of Black families. Even though Blacks experienced the fastest wealth growth from previous years, the wealth gap didn’t change much. A Case in point is that in 2020, 18% of Black households didn’t have a vehicle compared to only 6% of White households. Since the pandemic, inflation has made it way more expensive to buy a car and fuel it with gas.
At the same time, Black Americans have become major consumers, spending more than a trillion dollars annually on products and services despite their lack of wealth. This also extends to the automotive industry, where Black consumer spending is expected to reach $190 billion by 2030. In addition, the pricing gap between luxury and non-luxury has narrowed for many vehicle categories, making them more affordable.
So, what’s been driving the increase in luxury car purchases by Black Americans? Advertising! A Nielsen report found that Black people are 42% more likely to be influenced by advertising than other ethnicities. This includes radio, TV, and Internet ads. In particular, Blacks tend to be tech-savvy and look for brands that speak to their culture and encourage self expression.
Also, compared to non-Blacks, African Americans tend to purchase vehicles not only for their affordability and value for the money but also based on emotions including:
Brand trust
Perceived reliability of the brand
Proud of owning the brand
Recognition from other drivers with the same brand
What Luxury Cars Are African Americans Purchasing?
The Cadillac Escalade is a popular luxury brand among African Americans, especially the younger generations. According to the Marketer’s Guide to African American Millennials, compared to other races, Blacks are:
57% more likely to drive a Cadillac
40% more likely to drive a Lincoln
27% more likely to drive a Buick
It’s been speculated that the draw to Escalades is tied to music, including hip-hop and rap culture. Think back to this: 2019…Super Bowl LIII 53…Halftime Show… Outkast’s Big Boi pulls up in a vintage convertible Caddy.
What’s the Impact of Black Luxury Car Buyers on the Automotive Industry?
The market share of luxury brands has been booming. Although, African Americans haven’t been the primary target market for luxury cars, their spending is expected to grow and impact the automotive industry.
According to a report from Experian Automotive:
In 2020, Blacks purchased 10.2% of all luxury vehicles sold in the U.S., up from 7.4% in 2010.
In 2020, the average price of a luxury car purchased by an African American was $50,000, compared to $45,000 in 2010.
In 2020, Blacks spent $5.6 billion on luxury cars, up from $3.9 billion in 2010.
As demand increases, you should see more brands tailoring their products and marketing to appeal to African Americans. Luxury car dealers may be able to tap into $14 billion worth of Black consumer spending. This trend may also lead to Blacks starting up their own luxury car dealership like Posh Luxury Imports.
Are You in the Market for a New Car?
The auto supply chain challenges have led to increased auto prices and a decline in the availability of mainstream brands. You’ll therefore likely find a better selection among luxury vehicles — and maybe even comparable costs.
In the world of motorsports, the accomplishments and contributions of Black drivers, engineers, and team owners have often been overlooked. However, the tides are changing, and BLAC Racing is here to shine a light on the legacy and future of Black Motorsports.
Pioneers of Black Motorsports
The journey of Black Motorsports began with pioneers like Charlie Wiggins, Wendell Scott, and Joie Ray. These trailblazers faced immense adversity and discrimination, yet their passion and determination paved the way for future generations of Black racers.
Credit: IndyStar
Breaking Barriers in Modern Racing
Today, Black drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Bubba Wallace, and Antron Brown are breaking barriers and setting records in various racing categories, from Formula 1 to NASCAR and NHRA. Their success is inspiring a new generation of Black racers and challenging stereotypes in the motorsports world.
Organizations like NASCAR and Formula 1 are now actively promoting diversity and inclusion through initiatives like the Drive for Diversity program and We Race as One campaign. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive environment for drivers, engineers, and team owners of all backgrounds.
Emerging Stars in Black Racing
The future is bright, with promising talents like Rajah Caruth, Armani Williams, and Tia Norfleet making waves on the racing scene. These rising stars are proving that the world of motorsports is not just a white man’s game.
As the motorsports industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Black racers, engineers, and team owners. By supporting and promoting diversity in motorsports, we can ensure a more inclusive and exciting future for the sport we love.
Avocado dip guacamole with tortilla chips in a black bowl on a dark slate or metal background.Top view with copy space.
Roasted Jalapeno Guacamole is the perfect recipe for anyone looking to increase their health and culinary prowess. This delicious and mildly spicy guacamole is packed with health benefits and is the perfect snack or appetizer for your next get-together. The roasted jalapeno adds a great kick to this classic Mexican dish, and it’s so easy to make!
Ingredients:
3 ripe avocados
4 jalapeno peppers
1 cloves garlic
1 lime
1 small red onions
1 vine tomatoes
1 tablespoon(s) olive oil (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon(s) salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon(s) black pepper (adjust to taste)
Equipment Needed:
Oven
Grill or stovetop
Food processor or blender
Large mixing bowl
Spatula or mixing spoon
Serving dish
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh and place it in a large mixing bowl.
Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 15 minutes, or until they are slightly charred.
Peel the garlic cloves and add them to the food processor or blender along with the roasted jalapenos. Pulse until they are finely chopped.
Add the jalapeno-garlic mixture to the mixing bowl with the avocado.
Cut the limes in half and squeeze the juice into the mixing bowl.
Finely chop the red onions and add them to the mixing bowl.
Dice the vine tomatoes and add them to the mixing bowl.
Add the olive oil, salt, and black pepper to the mixing bowl.
Use a spatula or mixing spoon to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until the guacamole is smooth and creamy.
Transfer the guacamole to a serving dish and enjoy!
The hum of the airport was a symphony of life, a cacophony of humanity in motion. I sat there, people watching. A silent observer, soaking in the atmosphere as the world passed me by. The terminal was a canvas, and the travelers, artists, each with their own stories to tell.
A young couple caught my eye, their excitement palpable as they clung to each other, giddy with anticipation. Their laughter was contagious, and I couldn’t help but smile. They seemed to be embarking on a new adventure, their eyes sparkling with joy as they whispered to each other about the journey ahead.
As I watched them, I couldn’t help but think of the countless journeys that had begun in this very spot. The airport was a microcosm of life, a place where dreams were born and farewells were bittersweet. It was a testament to the human spirit, a reminder that we are all connected, no matter how far apart we may be.
A weary businessman shuffled past, his eyes glazed with exhaustion. He clutched a steaming cup of coffee, as if it were the elixir of life itself. I could only imagine the long hours he must have put in, and the sacrifices he had made in pursuit of success.
An elderly woman passed by, her hands gripping the suitcase to steady herself. Her eyes seemed to hold a lifetime of memories, and the lines on her face told stories of their own. I wondered about the places she had been, the experiences she had collected, and the wisdom she had gleaned from her travels.
A Tapestry of Shared Experiences
As I sat there, immersed in the ebb and flow of humanity, I realized that the airport was more than just a place of transit. It was a living, breathing tapestry of stories, woven together by the threads of our shared experiences. Each person I observed was a reminder of the infinite possibilities that life has to offer, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
As my flight was called, I rose from my seat, reluctant to leave this world of endless stories. But as I made my way to the gate, I knew that the memories I had collected would stay with me, a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience. And as I boarded the plane, I couldn’t help but wonder what new stories awaited me at my destination, and what tales I would carry with me when I returned.
In the end, the airport was more than just a place to pass through; it was a gateway to the world, a portal to the stories that define us. And as I gazed out the window, watching the ground recede beneath me, I knew that I would never look at an airport the same way again. For in the hustle and bustle of life, there is magic to be found, if only we take the time to look.
The Michelada is a refreshing Mexican cocktail that combines the tangy flavors of lime and tomato with the boldness of beer, creating a perfect balance that’s perfect for any occasion. Join BLAC as we delve into the history and cultural significance of this classic beverage, provide a step-by-step recipe for you to make your own Michelada, and offer serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
The History of Michelada
The origins of the Michelada can be traced back to Mexico, but its exact history is a subject of debate. The name Michelada is believed to be a portmanteau of “mi chela helada,” which translates to “my cold beer.” It is said to have been created as a means of enhancing the flavor of beer while also providing a refreshing drink for hot days.
The cultural significance of the Michelada lies in its embodiment of Mexican ingenuity and resourcefulness. Over time, the cocktail has evolved with various regional adaptations, incorporating different ingredients and flavors to suit local tastes. Today, the Michelada is enjoyed not only in Mexico but also around the world as a testament to the enduring appeal of this unique and refreshing beverage.
Ingredients
To make a Michelada, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Beer (preferably a Mexican lager) I prefer Stone Beunaveza Salt & Lime Lager or Modelo Chelda Beer
Lime juice (not needed if using the preferred beer)
Clamato (a mixture of tomato and clam juice)
Worcestershire sauce
Tabasco
Soy sauce (optional)
Maggi seasoning (optional)
Salt
Ground black pepper
Ice
Variations and substitutions include using different types of beer, adding or omitting certain ingredients, or adjusting the proportions to suit your taste. We make our own seasoning for the rim.
Recipe
Follow this step-by-step recipe to make your own Michelada:
Prepare the glass: Rim a chilled glass with a mixture of salt and ground black pepper. To do this, rub a lime wedge around the rim of the glass and then dip it into a plate containing the salt and pepper mixture.
Add the flavorings: In the prepared glass, combine the lime juice, tomato juice or Clamato, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, soy sauce, and Maggi seasoning (if using). Adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences.
Add ice: Fill the glass with ice.
Pour in the beer: Slowly pour your chosen beer into the glass, allowing it to mix with the other ingredients.
Stir gently: Use a long spoon or a stirrer to gently mix the drink.
Garnish: Add a lime wedge or a slice of cucumber for garnish, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
The Michelada is a versatile drink that pairs well with a variety of foods, particularly Mexican and Latin American dishes. Enjoy your Michelada alongside tacos, ceviche, or grilled meats for a delicious and refreshing combination. This cocktail is also perfect for casual gatherings, outdoor parties, or simply relaxing on a warm day.
Cheers to the Michelada
The Michelada is a testament to the rich history and culture of Mexico, offering a refreshing and flavorful experience that can be easily tailored to individual tastes. With its simple recipe and versatile serving suggestions, the Michelada is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the world of Mexican cocktails.
The Savoy’s Red Velvet Chicken & Waffles Photos: Noah Dawlearn
The Savoy, a legendary neighborhood bar and restaurant in the heart of Houston’s Historic Third Ward, is kicking off patio season with an expanded menu of brunch dishes and plenty of weekend attitude! Brunch at The Savoy runs from 12pm-5pm on Saturday and Sunday, featuring specialty Mimosas, hand-crafted cocktails, live DJs, and something for every palate and appetite.
Mouthwatering Menu Selections
The expanded menu showcases delicious, scratch-made signature offerings including Chicken & Waffles, Red Velvet or regular Chicken & Pancakes, Shrimp, Lobster or Catfish and Grits, Lamb Chops and Eggs, Wild Caught Caribbean Spiny Lobster Tail, Crawfish, Fresh Salads and their Legendary Single Savoy Burger made from Texas Wagyu beef. And, don’t forget the Vegan Waffles and Shrimp Rolls.
The Savoy Seasonal salad w/SalmonThe Savoy Shrimp & Grits ? Noah DawlearnThe Savoy’s Red Velvet Chicken & Waffles
Sip and Savor on the Patio
One of the best things about brunching at The Savoy is enjoying their massive patio. With seating for up to 250 guests, the well-appointed patio boasts potted palms and ferns, patio heaters, big screen TVs, live DJs, and plenty of room to dine, drink, dance, and mingle. Inside, the popular bar and restaurant has a great old-meets-new ambiance with vintage motorcycle furniture décor, street-art walls, and seating for up to 96.
A Rich History and Evolving Legacy
Built as a neighborhood bar in 1940, The Savoy became a popular gathering spot for the Black community. Since 1940, it has only had three owners, the third being Black and Long Enterprises, who purchased the historic building in 2019, did a full-scale renovation, and relaunched in the fall of 2021. Over the last two years, The Savoy has evolved from a trendy neighborhood bar with a food truck to one of the best gathering spots in the Third Ward for hand-crafted signature cocktails, frozen specialties, Mega Drink Towers, and an amazing menu of elevated scratch-made dishes.
More Than Just Brunch
In addition to weekend brunch, The Savoy offers daily Happy Hours, live entertainment, catering, and a VIP Room for birthdays, parties, showers, corporate gatherings, and private events. The Savoy, located at 4402 Emancipation Ave., is open from 4pm-12am Monday-Wednesday, 4pm-2am Thursday and Friday, and 11am-2am Saturday and Sunday.
Folk music (or roots music) has deep roots, representing the voice of the people, and is often passed down from generation to generation. The genre’s history is rich and often associated with storytelling, highlighting themes of empowerment, struggle, and perseverance, often about human rights. Protest songs and thought-provoking lyrics highlighting the civil rights movement are examples of Black folk musicians’ impact on their communities and society.
From rhythm bone to washboard artists, the earliest influential folk musicians used music to help uplift those around them. Folk music and work songs also acted as a tool to communicate among enslaved people, showcasing the power of folk music in African American history. This genre would later influence jazz, blues, rap, and gospel music.
There have been some captivating and highly inspirational African American artists throughout folk music history, like Harry Belafonte — the legendary artist who sang “Day-O” — not to mention Richie Havens and Odetta. However, contemporary Black folk musicians are reawakening traditional African American music.
These five artists are simultaneously preserving and evolving this genre, and watching their journeys unfold is beautiful.
Founded by fiddler Henrique Prince, the Queens-based Ebony Hillbillies were some of the pioneers leading the current Black Americana movement. Throughout the decades, this string band’s untamed, joyful vibe has created a dedicated following, bridging the gap between bluegrass, folk, jazz, pop, and country. Prince’s goal was always to create music African Americans used to perform and dance to — before the era of blues and jazz.
What started as an NYC street corner phenomenon has since turned into a dynamic ensemble that has played at legendary venues, touring with multiple Grammy-winning writers, like William “Salty Bill” Salter, who co-wrote the hits “Where is the Love” and “Just The Two of Us.” Over the years, they have worked with everyone from James Brown to Odetta. The remaining members continue to tour, often scheduling events with cultural significance. They’re blazing a trail for coming generations, keeping their art alive as one of the last black string bands in the country.
Although the Carolina Chocolate Drops haven’t collectively performed since 2014, their sound lives on as members continue pursuing solo projects. Founded in 2005, Carolina Chocolate Drops formed after meeting at the Black Banjo Gathering at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. The band found immense success, and their 2010 album, Genuine Negro Jig, won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album. It was also listed at #9 in the Roots magazine’s top ten albums of 2010.
All of the musicians in this group would sing and trade instruments, including the bones, jug, snare drum, harmonica, kazoo, banjo, fiddle, and guitar. The group discovered and studied nearly forgotten African American musical traditions, bringing them to the forefront based on their reinterpretations. Although the band no longer plays together, members like Rhiannon Giddens have won several awards, including a Grammy for Best Folk Album. Slave narratives inspire several powerful songs while touching on other aspects of African American history — ranging from the civil rights era to Black Lives Matter.
Jerron Paxton is a bluegrass, folk, and jazz musician performing early African-American music — a “master of forgotten music.” Born in 1989, he is a relatively young artist with an old soul. Blind with some peripheral vision since he was 16, he took on the nickname “Blind Boy” Paxton. He’s witty, poetic, and a true gift among those who love true blues, playing everything from the banjo and fiddle to the accordion and the bones.
He assimilates the blues of the 1920s and ’30s and has released three albums. His ability to make music based on his identity and culture and showcase it to a broader audience makes him truly special. Some say his music is like a time capsule, shining a light on American, African American, and working-class cultures.
This list would not be complete without Henry St. Claire Fredericks Jr., better known as Taj Mahal, a Harlem-born musician and songwriter. Over the years, he created his own sub-genre of blues, being one of the pioneers of what is called world music today. Influenced by ragtime, reggae, and gospel, his career focused on the origins of African American music, focusing on acoustic blues.
He recorded dozens of albums from the 1960s to the present, and even at 80 years old, he continues to tour. He has shows booked throughout 2023, ending with the Crossroads Festival in Los Angeles, California. His years of work have landed him 15 Grammy nominations and three wins, the most recent being a 2022 Grammy for his and Ry Cooder’s album Get on Board.
Kaia Kater is more of an up-and-coming artist known for her sobering and honest lyrics, touching on everything from racism to poverty. Canadian-born Kaia recorded her first EP at 17, releasing her first full-length album in 2014 at the age of 21. By 2016, Rolling Stone was calling her a “need-to-know” artist.
In 2018, she released her album Grenades, exploring her family’s history. To gain inspiration, she went to her father’s homeland of Grenada. The album was later nominated for a JUNO. In 2020, she released original music for The Porter on BET, which won her a Canadian Screen Award for Best Original Song in a Drama Series. Her works continue to gain global attention as she focuses on her unique artistic, social, and political expression. She’s dropping her next album in late 2023.
Recognizing and Celebrating the Achievements of Black Folk Artists
From legend Bernice Johnson Reagon to breakout successes like Amythyst Kiah, dozens of outstanding contemporary Black folk artists have created their legacy over the past 50+ years. Some focus on soulful folk music, while others focus on blues-influenced folk. Regardless, they all have one thing in common — they all recognize their roots, showcasing the power of knowledge, passion, emotion, and reconciliation.
These artists have paved the way for other African American folk artists. They shed light on the topics that matter, create music that makes their audience feel good, and above all else, represent themselves and their communities in a way that leaves an imprint on your soul.
At BLAC, we encourage you to explore and support the work of these artists and those that follow as they help ensure the continued vitality and growth of the Black folk music scene. Be sure to follow all that’s happening in the realm of art + culture.
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