Black folk musicians discuss their role in history of Black American folk music
February marks the beginning of Black History Month.
February marks the beginning of Black History Month.
February marks the beginning of Black History Month.
February marks the beginning of Black History Month, and Black musicians in Kansas City are coming together to share their music to tell the full story of the Black experience.
Many artists hope this is a chance to connect and tell that history.
"The folk music space, is the space I used to tell the truths that make the most sense of me," said Lilli Lewis, musician and Folk Alliance International organizer.
Black folk musicians say it’s easy to be cornered into categories.
"It’s where I feel my fullest humanity no matter what genre somebody might put on it," Lewis said.
That’s why for artists and industry players it’s important to come together in a shared safe space.
"We should just show up and tell everybody we belong under the big tent just like everybody else," Lewis said.
It's through folk music that many artists at this Black American music summit hope the full story can be told.
"When you see us in music and understand the enormity of what we brought to the table, there might be a chance that you could see us in the enormity of what we've brought to this nation," said artist and catalyst Queen Esther.
To further the Black American story and prosper for future generations.
"I know we have everything to gain by telling a more complete history," Lewis said.
"All you have to do is just look past the surface slightly, just scratch the surface, and all of this Blackness comes rushing forward," Esther said.
Black artists also plan to have other performances and summits during this year’s conference all of which take place here at the Westin.
