Celebrated music producer and singer-songwriter Ebonie Smith has unveiled a new poetry album titled On Imagination, featuring performances of 12 poems by prominent Black female cultural icons.
The album includes the voices of legendary figures such as Roberta Flack, Valerie Simpson, U.S. Representative Maxine Waters, and Dr. Angela Y. Davis, bringing together a powerful collection of spoken word art.
According to Billboard, the project aims to harness the transformative power of art to turn grief into joy and resilience. Smith sought to honor the tradition of music as a revolutionary force that affirms life while bringing to mind the importance of language as a healing tool within the Black community.
The album includes contributions from a diverse range of artists, including Dawn Richard, June Jordan, Gwendolyn Bennett, Phillis Wheatley, Georgia Douglas Johnson, Valerie June, Danyel Smith, Genesis Be, Lori Lightfoot, and Flyana Boss.
In discussing the album, Smith reflected on its personal significance, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the passing of Migos member Takeoff.
“The poems on this album are restorative. They helped me heal and re-center after COVID. The language is challenging, requiring the listener to work for a deeper understanding, but those who make the effort will find the words of these poets truly powerful and transformative,” Smith stated.
A standout track from the album is “Fantasy,” written by Gwendolyn Bennett and performed by Dawn Richard. The piece is accompanied by a dance choreography created by Francesca Harper, the artistic director of Ailey II.
Harper expressed her excitement about the collaboration, saying:
“It was an absolute pleasure working with Dawn Richard, creating movement and collaborating with her on an anthem celebrating the resilience and power of women of color from the African diaspora.”
Richard also shared her thoughts on the significance of the project, noting:
“Nineteen years later, I get to step through the doors of Ailey on my own terms. The last time I danced in Ailey’s theater was in Making the Band. To be back here and recreate a world of regality and beauty through femininity and empowerment makes this moment so special. It speaks to the power of womanhood and perseverance. You can shape your own dreams, tell the story you wish to tell, and dare to imagine the possibilities you wish to create.”
On Imagination is a powerful testament to the enduring strength and creativity of Black women and serves as a reminder of the healing potential of art and language.
