Ledisi, hailing from New Orleans but raised in Oakland, California, was surrounded by a vibrant musical atmosphere since her early days, influenced by her parents’ passion for R&B, soul, and even country music. Her formative years immersed in the timeless melodies of the 1960s and 1970s instilled in her a profound admiration for musical storytelling, a theme that resonates in contemporary R&B. Inspired by iconic figures like Denise Williams, Ledisi pays tribute to her musical heritage on her latest record, Good Life, promising listeners a glimpse of that classic essence.
In 1995, Ledisi established a band bearing her middle name, Anibade, setting the stage for her musical journey that took off in 2000 with the launch of her inaugural album, SoulSinger. This debut marked the beginning of a prolific career that has spawned nine subsequent albums. Recently celebrated as a Grammy-winning artist, Ledisi has made an enduring impact on the music scene with chart-toppers like “Pieces of Me” and “Alright,” showcasing her lasting influence and presence. With the release of her eagerly awaited 10th studio album, Ledisi continues to enchant audiences with her exceptional talent and unwavering love for soulful music.
Ledisi’s dedication to authenticity has been pivotal in her ongoing musical evolution and success. She emphasizes, “People expect me to express my true feelings and evolve. Many chase trends, but I focus on growth, perseverance, and upholding traditions. I’m not after fleeting relevance; I seek self-discovery in each moment.”
Drawing inspiration from legendary vocalists such as Patti Labelle and Chaka Khan, Ledisi’s enduring career is largely attributed to her captivating voice, which deeply resonates with her listeners. She reflects, “I possess a divine gift that heals, inspires, and comforts. As long as I cherish this gift and my craft, I will remain faithful to my calling. My prayer is to continue this journey beautifully till the end.”
As we commemorate Women’s History Month, Ledisi sheds light on the experiences and hurdles faced by black women in the music industry, underscoring her advocacy for representation and inclusivity. She shares, “I honor my ancestors, like my great aunt who was a Black Panther. History is always on my mind; our roots are never forgotten. I aim to strike a balance between acknowledging the past and amplifying the voices of today’s talents.”
In addition to championing representation, collaborating with fellow women in music holds great significance for Ledisi. She emphasizes, “In my work, I prioritize involving women. I reached out to Marsha Ambrosius for songwriting, debunking the myth that artists can’t collaborate. I’m not too proud to seek assistance; it’s about unity and support.”
Ledisi’s latest offering, Good Life, exudes optimism while addressing the theme of conquering chaos. She explains, “This album portrays the good life as a journey through challenges, not just a utopia. It’s about resilience amidst turmoil, not perpetual perfection.” Fans can anticipate a nostalgic musical experience reminiscent of classic R&B fused with contemporary elements. She adds, “Expect a blend of old-school vibes and fresh sounds, featuring a diverse lineup of producers and collaborators like Kenny Lattimore, Butcher Brown, Cory Henry, and DJ Camper, alongside my longtime collaborator Rex.”
The new album by Ledisi serves as a testament to her resilience, narrating her triumph over adversities such as criticisms about her appearance and doubts about her success. Despite facing setbacks, she persisted, drawing valuable lessons from her journey.