Meshell Ndegeocello

Meshell Ndegeocello pays tribute to the writer James Baldwin with her album No More Water: The Gospel Of James Baldwin, which explores the themes of race, sexuality, religion and oppression, present in Baldwin’s works. The album was inspired by Baldwin’s essay The Fire Next Time and addresses profound subjects, in particular racism and family heritage. Co-produced with Chris Bruce, it has brought together several musicians, including Justin Hicks and Josh Johnson. The album combines diverse musical influences, ranging from jazz to African music, and includes performances by poets such as Staceyann Chin and Hilton Als. Each song is a reflection on the struggle against injustice, with an introspective and committed approach. Tracks such as “Raise The Roof” and “The Price of a Ticket” are calls for resistance in the face of systemic racism. Ndegeocello, inspired by Baldwin, also speaks of her own path as a queer, black woman and of the quest for unity and understanding. The album resonates powerfully with Baldwin’s speeches on truth, love and the struggle against oppression.

This is the opportunity for Meshell Ndegeocello to perform at the Gould pine grove in Juan-les-Pins, so close to Saint-Paul-de-Vence where James Baldwin lived and where he passed away in 1987.