Women’s History Month is ending soon, but we’re still celebrating! From a small rural town in Mississippi to one of Maryland’s leading cities, Baltimore. This artist is the true definition of resilience with a beautiful soul spewing out positivity. Inspired by soulful legends such as Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and other female powerhouses. We present to you, the prodigious vocalist Soulful/R&B artist, Black Assets.
Growing up in Itta Bena, Mississippi wasn’t always peaches and cream for this artist. Black recalls her time as a young child living there. “You had your family, good food, rules to follow, and the KKK; everything was black and white.” The southern hospitality in Itta Bena is just what you could imagine, tradition, religion, and family.
Musically, Black was raised in the church and by talented elders all her life. Consequently, She found herself being around family and music most of the time. Black shares with us her uncle, a war veteran who had a grand record player, and would play music “All day, every day,” ranging from Mariah Carey to the Five Heartbeats. As a young girl, she would sit and listen, and began to further her musical interest. “Music is embedded in me and It’s a part of who I am,” Black stated.
After high school, she found herself up north and auditioning for the Morgan State University (MSU) choir and successfully got in! However, transitioning into such a city environment took its toll, and she ended up taking a break but music kept her focused and grounded. “Being a part of the MSU choir changed my whole life, I got to travel, and I’ve learned a lot about the ins and outs of music,” Black stated. In all, making the move to Baltimore was a breath of fresh air, fulfilled with opportunity and freedom. When it comes to the music scenery in the DMV specifically Baltimore, Black feels as though “We are on the brink, of kicking in the industry doors.” She recalls settling in and hearing Go-Go music for the first time. As most DMV natives know, Go-Go music originated in Washington, D.C. Not only did Black admired this, but it left a great influence on her, as well as the professionalism in the DMV music scenery.
Two years from now, Black wishes to put on multiple hats, whether it's producing, graphic designing, or creating more visuals. She also has the desire and goal to perform on stage at the Broccoli City Festival. Lastly, she strives to continue to be a full-time artist, release more music, and expand her audience.
Aside from music, Black is a true versatile artist, she enjoys painting, creating flyers, and has a love for hats and glasses. Black along with her friends also produces a social platform for artists, called the “Living Room Social” on the first Friday of every month. The “Living Room Social” started in a basement as a casual get together among talented friends and family. Years later, she was approached with an Adidas partnership giving the opportunity for young creators to compete in an open mic. Every month, Black finds herself discovering new talent and hopes to create a legacy such as, the Apollo theater or Howard Theater. “It’s been magic ever sense,” Black stated.
Read more about Black Assets with a closer look below.
If you won a free trip, where would you go and why?
I would go to Cuba to meet with the infamous revolutionary leader, Assata Shakur.
What is your dream collaboration?
My dream collaboration would be with Jill Scott, H.E. R, Erykah Badu and Ro James. That’s all I need, they all add elements to music and when combined, it would create something amazing.
Would you rather never use social media sites / apps again or never watch another movie or TV show?
I only watch Bob’s Burgers, apart from that I don’t really watch TV. Therefore, social media wins.
When did you start your dreads journey?
A friend of mine started off my dreads eight years ago. I have started and cut off my dreads twice before, I’m now on my third set. In the beginning, I had no hang time, I truly started from the bottom! I view my dreads as a commitment, and from that, I have options when it comes to styling and I can truly say I’ve earned them.
What song do you currently have on replay?
I listen to H.E.R and Ari Lennox daily! Apart from that I have “Everyday Black Girl” by TT the Artist and “Voilá” by N.E.R.D, Gucci Mane, and Wale; both are fire!
If you didn't have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
At night, I tend to come up with a lot of melodies and vibes but, because it’s late, I find myself falling asleep sometimes. Therefore, If I didn’t have to sleep, I would write more songs, produce more visuals, and develop flyers needed.
Magnified Topic of the Week: Black Assets “Black Noise” EP?
Black Assets analyzed over fifty songs and ultimately chose five for the astonishing soulful EP “Black Noise”. In this EP, you're able to feel and hear the beat of the drums and guitar, creating a chanting soothing soulful noise across all tunes. Be ready for good feels and even better vibes, from a sexier tune “Take it off” to fan favorite “Enemy”. This EP was more than music, it was a challenge and a true realization of who Black is, and that is, a phenomenal recording artist with a captivating voice of power and passion.
Written by Dejah Moné