Love Letter to Erykah Badu #1

by megan amal
AFO staff

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Dear Erykah Badu, the illest the realest,

Today I want to thank you for releasing the play list, “Feel Better World—Love Ms. Badu”. Listening to this play list does just what you intended, makes people feel better.

I am a dance artist and teacher who hopes to use her body, mind, and energy to create greater potential for personal transformation and political change. Sometimes I feel ineffective. Listening to “Feel Better World” strengthens my commitment to challenging oppression.  

As you know, when one is involved in struggle, by choice or by circumstance, there are forces beyond their control. These forces can become overwhelming. They can make one feel that their struggle has no end and has no effect. Overwhelmed to the point of stagnation.

Listening to those carefully chosen songs reminds me that there are others laboring for freedom. They remind me that artists can (and should?) participate in that labor. My heart opens, my spirit is lifted. The tracks move from incantatory to celestial. They take the listener away and allow for repose and for a centered re-ignition. I will continue to turn to this play list for inspiration and dance to it for release.

Love you!

In solidarity and gratitude,
megan amal

p.s
I have more to thank you for! I’ll write more soon :]

FEEL BETTER, WORLD! ... LOVE, MS.BADU by Erykah She Ill Badu on Mixcloud