Category Archives: Lovin’ the beat of the drum in music

My Introduction to “Knowledge of Self”

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black-history_feb-13_copyright-shila-iris-2017Becoming conscious of my own existence, my mind began to transform. I shedded my ego and my eyes opened to reveal my heart. Gaining clairvoyance through observation, I realized that the now was here. I had a chance, so I took it. The urgency of my evolution allowed me to see the matrix, the numbers, the chemistry, the hieroglyphs, the cyphers- the rotation was magnificent. As I matriculate, I stay true. I have seen with my own two eyes the truth. My accountability, my sacrifice, my love is here. I wrote myself back into the story, and started to really love this girl. This level of maturity, this level of security, my restoration is my assignment. Obstacles are moving, resistance is under my elephant feet, I defeat, every time. Better Me. I wanted her so bad, I had to get her. I saw Shila, and I pursued her, until she was strong and her colors shined through. I planted my flag, my culture, my God. I came for her. Osiris Rising.

Thank you for visiting,

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Shila Iris

My Introduction to Nikki Giovanni

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black-history_feb-12_copyright-shila-iris-2017Storytelling has been an African tradition for a very long time. Our ancestors used stories to record history and to communicate important messages through generations. Poetry is the method I use to tell stories, and this is the woman who made me believe that it could be done. Poetry can change minds, change hearts, lead to soul revivals; it has a place on the streets, in politics, in music, up high, down low, poetry is a tool we use to transcend. Back in 2005, I heard Nikki speak in the wonderful Jubilee Hall on the campus of her and my Alma Mater, Fisk University. She was amazing, with her candid interpretations of life, or should I say, thug life! Check out the tattoo on her left forearm. I can’t believe that Nikki Giovanni is 73 years old. Her name sounds like she is fashion designer, but she is indeed a game changer who has tried to help us recover from having our culture stolen. With her pages of accolades, she has been a fighter and a major voice. With her words of wisdom and ability to communicate with people from all walks of life, she has helped us fight against the deeply-rooted injustices targeted at people of African descent. She is more than a writer, she uplifted the Black Experience and taught it to many generations of young minds. My favorite piece from her is an essay named Gemini, in a book also named Gemini. She speaks about her first 25 years as a Black poet, and in this particular essay, she talks about the relationship between Black men and women. Looking back on it, I can see things a bit clearer. I am grateful. Prophetic poetry is a part of our Black history. Thanks Nikki, for paving a way. Peace.

I really adore you,

Shila Iris

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My Introduction to Miriam Makeba

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black-history_feb-8_copyright-shila-iris-2017When I started to entertain the idea of learning Swahili and visiting Tanzania, I turned to Miriam Makeba’s song “Malaika” to help me get a feel for what the culture was like. However, I remember Miriam being on an episode of the Cosby Show. She was having a conversation with Raven Simone’s character. When asked if she was “from around here,” meaning New York, Miriam replied “I’m from the continent of Africa.” Her voice was soothing and kind. I thought she was a beautiful woman. I wondered what it would be like to go to the place where she was from. Miriam is from Johannesburg, South Africa. She worked as a servant during her teens under the harsh conditions of apartheid. Starring in a film called, “Come Back Africa” made her famous throughout the world, but made her a threat to the rulers of her native country, since the film was anti-apartheid. She then moved to America and became an immediate success. Her 1965 album with Harry Belafonte won her a Grammy. She was active in the Civil Rights Movement and married Black Activist, Stokely Carmichael who became Kwame Ture. Miriam Makeba is affectionately known as “Mother Africa” because she was one of the first artists to bring the sound of her homeland to the Western world. She is the first artist I heard, singing spiritual and rhythmic music. I adore the sound of her.

Thank you for reading,

Shila Iris

Tiger

My Introduction to Bob Marley

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The transformative power of Robert Nesta has touched many souls. It touched me. I didn’t know much about the music of Bob Marley until I was around 23 years old. I heard the song, “Who the Cap Fit.” It was this song that transformed my understanding of human relationships. The lyrics described the level of consciousness that I was reaching. There were people all around me, but I knew that I’d only be able to trust a few. So when I heard Marley say:

“Your worst enemy could be your best friend And your best friend your worst enemy… Some will eat and drink with you Then behind them su-su ‘pon you Only your friend know your secrets So only he could reveal it…”

I said, “wow, that makes sense.” The one’s closest to you, are the one’s that reveal your secrets! That hurt to hear, but it has proven to be true time and time again, Then he said:

“Some will hate you, pretend they love you now Then behind they try to eliminate you But who Jah bless, no one curse Thank God We’re past the worse … Hypocrites and parasites Will come up and take a bite And if your night should turn to day A lot of people would run away..”

From one Aquarius to another, Bob was speaking a truth that I would have to revisit often, to remind myself, not to take things so personal and to love me first. So, I step back from people with undefined intentions. I let go of those that ran away when my night turned to day, and I leave those behind that find it hard to say, “I choose you.” I’m having to realize, even now, in my 132nd season, that I am not perfect, and that I have to keep going back to this proverbial wisdom to find my power. Sometimes, in the absence of parenting or mentorship, I turn to this good music to give me strength and to help me heal. Bob is the one who helped me realize that I require a high level of loyalty in friendships and in love; and it taught me how to read between the lines of what people say. It doesn’t stop at this song! He has a catalog of at least 200 songs that I find to be revolutionary.

Thanks for reading,

Shila Iris

2015

My Introduction to Erykah Badu

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black-history_feb-4-_copyright-shila-iris-2017I was twelve years old when I first saw Erykah Badu’s face. This beautiful, soft-eyed queen mesmerized me. I stared into the televison screen unable to look away. I was in love. She sang soulfully, unlike anything I’d ever heard. The bass line in her first single, “On and On” penetrated my heart muscle, seeped its way down my spine, and made my shoulders and hips move- I was possessed by an ancestral spirit! She was dope then, and she is super dope now. Her music is highly intellectual, an art form in which I appreciate- you can’t fake this vibe. To write these lyrics, to sing these songs, you have to be levitating on a high frequency. Her music is like poetry. After hearing her that first time, to my surprise, my mother came home with Baduizm on tape and then the Live Record! I loved every song and every lyric. This is the artist that I connect with more than any other. Her third album, Mama’s Gun is my favorite of all time. The music is timeless. Right now, I am enjoying her projects with Robert Glasper and other groovy artists. To top it all off, Erykah’s style is amazing. Her attire excites me. I adore her independence as an artist. I use her words to heal and to grow. She has gotten me through heartbreaks and heartaches, and she is helping me rise into greatness, even now. The music inspires me. “Don’t feed me your’s, cause your food does not endure.”

Thank you for reading,

Shila Iris

2015

Esperanza Spalding Presents: Emily’s D+Evolution @Cain Park tomorrow in Cleveland Heights, OH

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Emily Espe 3

Who is Emily, you might ask? Not even Esperanza knows, but I guess you’ll have to show up to find out. This production is sure to be a smashing hit, as Ms. Spalding puts on many hats and presents what we could sort of call her “alter ego.” Are you ready? I am ready! It’s playtime!

Can you pretend to be yourself?

The shows starts at 8:00 pm and tickets range from $20-37. If you haven’t seen her live, this would be a good opportunity to experience her wonderful jazzy majesties. She is stunning in character and in talent, and I am all about her exploration of the many dimensions inside of herself. Peace and love sista soul. Can’t wait to experience you.

Get your tickets here.

Emily Espe 4

I am Shila. Peace and blessings.

Read about her here. …

and here

 

Tuesday Night Interlude

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I’m in a jazzy interlude type of mood, what about you?

→ Alicia Keys:  Feeling U, Feeling Me

By the way, this CD was excellent.

→ Jill Scott:  I Think It’s Better & He Loves Me (Lyzel In E Flat)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wL3R74rWpbE
Check out this special treat: LiAnn La Havas performs Jill Scott

→ Erykah Badu: Hey Suga 

Check out “Booty” performed in Chicago

→ Janelle Monae:  Suite III Overture and Neon Valley Street

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FP-mTcHbzcE
I really dig her. Neon Valley Street is awesome.

→ and a prelude… Isley Brothers:  Harvest for the World

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjjO_a3gdzc
This is such a great prelude, I had to include it!

Drinking Pinot this week. Try this. ♥

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OSiRis RiSinG

and a very sexy ending…

JANET JACKSON:  Anything

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrZAeANdRiU

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Day 5 – KWANZAA AFTER DARK: Baduizm

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“Peace and blessings manifest with
every lesson learned
If your knowledge were your wealth then
it would be well earned”   -Erykah Badu

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Today’s Kwanzaa theme is NIA otherwise known as Purpose. When I think of purpose, I think of my Identity, of our identity, and the restoration of the traditional greatness in the Black/Brown family. Our greatness has been repressed because we have been oppressed, but I can feel the blood of my ancestors running through my veins. It feels amazing. I know that I am wonderful, and I know that it means something to have this history inside of me.

Today, my NIA gift to you is Baduizm, an album that helped me to realize my Greatness. FrontBack

It’s been seventeen years since Erykah Badu released Baduizm. I was 13 at the time, and I remember being mesmerized by her music. I saw the video for On and On and was hooked! Good for me, my mom was into Badu, so she purchased the tape and played it frequently. I was right there by her side, listening to every lyric.

“I can’t believe
That we’re still livin’
Oh, in this crazy, crazy world
That I’m still livin’

With all the problems of the day
How can we go on? Hey
So tired of hearin’ people say
“How can we go on?”

Fantasy people
Make believe people
How can you go on? Yeah
But you’re still livin’ ” – from the song “Drama”

Erykah’s energy seemed to awaken something inside of me. At the time, I couldn’t identify what it was, but it seemed more spiritual than anything. To this day, she is still intoxicating and her lyrics touch my soul. I don’t exactly feel like I am a fan of hers, I feel more of a ethereal kinship to her. I feel the wealth of her knowledge reflected through her music.

As a gift, please enjoy the messages behind the music. Let the baselines take you into the lands and into the hearts of your ancestors. If you can, check out this book on Badu:

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Sometimes we get knocked off course. We get lost in love, sick, distracted by technology, confused, hurt, but we have to remember that we are GREAT. We are more than whatever they told us we are! We should look to ourselves to find our history. KNOWing yourself is fulfilling your purpose. 

Peace and love,

Queen Shi-La on the throne…

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8:30 p.m. 12/30/14

DAY 1 – KWANZAA AFTER DARK: Surah 31:18

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“Let’s take, a long walk, around the park, after dark
Find a spot, for us to spark,
Conversation, verbal elation, stimulation
Share our situations, temptations, education, relaxations
Elevations, maybe we can talk about Surah 31:18”

                                                                                 -Jill Scott

Surah 31:18

“Do not treat men with scorn, nor walk proudly on the earth: God does not love the arrogant and the vainglorious. Rather let your stride be modest and your voice low: the most hideous of voices is braying of the ass.”

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Today’s Kwanzaa theme is UMOJA, otherwise known as Unity. When I think of unifying, I imagine traveling in harmony with someone, or with people who respect me, uplift, and are honest with me. Unifying takes a lot of courage. It is more than holding someone’s hand, it is empowering them and accepting them for who they are. It is respecting the space and the boundaries of others. It is listening with an open heart. It is acknowledging that everyone is human and that we all make mistakes:

“Your background, it ain’t squeaky clean (shit)
Sometimes we all got to swim upstream
You ain’t no saint, we all are sinners
But you put your good foot down, and make your soul a winner,

I respect that, man you’re so phat
And you’re all that, plus SUPREME
Then you’re humble, man I’m numb
Yo’ feeling, I can feel everything that you bring”

                                                                -Jill Scott

Today, my Umoja GIFT to you: Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO “A LONG WALK”

Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds, Vol. 1

Nearly 15 years ago, Jill Scott released this very impressive album, which quickly floated towards the top of the charts, swiftly garnering mass public respect and a positive critical response selling 2 million copies. In its entirety, the album is a beautiful and emotional experience of love. The lyrics are erotic, exotic, and express her deepest feelings. She is remarkably honest and raw, singing and reciting poetry straight from the heart, no chaser. Words and Sounds Vol. 1 is crammed with playful love and sincere desire.

As a gift, let us be reminded of the concept of UNITY. Unity starts inside of you. It is important to be ONE with who you are, then, you can spread that love! Let us UNIFY in TRUTH. Let us not be afraid to tell each other how we really feel. Let us always find power in admitting our mistakes, because to hide behind them is death. Let us not throw away our love in the misunderstandings of a weak heart:

Surah 31:16 – “My son, God will bring all things to light, be they small as a grain of mustard seed, be they hidden inside a rock or in the heavens or the earth. Gracious is God, the Universe, all-knowing.

With that said, I am glad that you are here!

“You’re here, I’m pleased
I really dig your company
Your style, your smile, your peace mentality
Lord, have mercy on me
I was blind, now I can see
What a KING’s supposed to be
Baby I feel Free, come on and go with me”

                                                        -Jill Scott

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…and in the spirit of Unity, please remember that you can be a honorable woman or man, you just have to be pure and honest to form great relationships. Walk towards those who don’t hide from who they are; unify with those who want to hear the truth.

“…maybe we can talk about Revelation 3:17”

                                                       -Jill Scott

You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.

Well, I’m headed out for my long walk, around the park, after dark! Peace and love.

Thank you for reading, baby. I love you too. 8:00 p.m. 12/26/14.

Queen OSiRis

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P.S. Remember your roots. Foster good and pure relationships. Let a friend be a friend, let a lover be a lover. Don’t cross lines. Don’t lie.

Umoja principle instructs that each member of the family, and by extension, the community, is constituted by a web of interpersonal relationships. The health and possibilities of the family and community, therefore, is dependent upon the quality of relationship within the family and community.

SocialMedia1 @shila_iris

I am your Soul Sista…

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Sometimes in life, we cannot offer people a commitment, but we can offer them one hell of an experience! All experiences are relevant. We need them to balance us out for what is to come. So don’t be afraid to love. Love right. Not at the risk of hurting someone, but purely, and bravely. I am your soul sista. Let’s have a good time.

I love Bilal in this. The way he touches her at @0:35 & @2:07 is incredible. The movement throughout is lovely especially @3:25. Brings back memories, Bilal! I see you QuestLove!

On an ARTISTIC level this song hit so many hi-hats in my spirit. It’s very poetic.

and 5 more for the road…

EXPERIENCE 1: I just got out of a situation, and I’m not trying to get into anything serious, but we can chill. Know what I mean? 

EXPERIENCE 2: There ain’t no denying the strength of this attraction. 

EXPERIENCE 3: It feels so right, it can’t be wrong.

EXPERIENCE 4: How can I want you for myself, when I’m already someone’s girl? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_ZhycNmlAo

EXPERIENCE 5: Money flying everywhere! Every person deserves an experience where there is no penny-pinching. “Spend my money, baby!” Have fun! 

Be accountable for all your experiences. Pass no judgement because we all enjoy the excitement of being with someone who understands our needs. Like instruments, sometimes we get out of tune, and we have to find the right tuner. Even if it’s for the moment, we have to be open to the sound of the person whom the Universe sends to show us our reflection. When you look into that person’s eyes, that mirror, you better be ready to face reality because you will see the good, but you most definitely see the bad. All of what you see in that person, is you. We are human beings, we are soundboards for one another. We attract people who are weak like us and strong like us. Find the next person that will tune you. Get your sound right and come back around.

I’m not endorsing this behavior, but it is kind of sexy, right? -John Legend

P.S. Remember to tell the truth about your choices. Don’t cover up a good experience with lies because you are embarrassed or afraid of what people might think. You have to know that we reap what we sow. Karma is that balance we need to wake up. Be private and use discretion, and most importantly be honest with the person with whom you are having the experience with. There is no need to fake or rush anything. Rushed behavior only leads to more hurt and confusion. Take your time and allow things to blossom or allow yourself to live in the moment because time doesn’t wait for any of us. Live the life you desire. Kiss a girl who makes your blood boil. Kiss a man who makes you scream.

From my heart to yours, the lessons I’ve learned. Peace & love.

-Shila Iris

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Meditating in the Music – Falling in Love with SZA

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Music is so much a part of my life.  The messages resonate deep in my soul… and when I am searching, it helps.  So, a few weeks ago, I was introduced to SZA. Then I got to see her perform and she blew my mind!  She told me to: “go to church if you scared…”

and I said…

I KNOW IT HURTS

EVOLVING

 

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My playlist consists of 2 songs today.

1. Every word in this song instigates something inside of me. I can feel it, twisting and turning in my gut.

2. This right here, you gotta get ready for it! … SZA is so live!

This is SZA. She is so beautiful, inside and out.

Have you ever felt like you were in a noisy place, yet somehow your mind maintained it’s silence? SILENCE IN A NOISY PLACE? Thank you for your time. god’s bless me. Peace.

Shila Iris aka Queen

My Experience at AfroPunk was so Amazing!

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Me at AfroPunk- Picture Courtesy of Aagdolla Photographer

Me at AfroPunk

This year, the AfroPunk Festival in Brooklyn, New York was amazing! I had been wanting to go for 2 years, but once again I almost flaked out and stayed home. However, some wonderful ladies pushed me to go. I got my small amount of disposable income together and went for it! I am so glad that I did. I would estimate that over the course of 2 days, August 23 and 24, at least 50,000 people got to experience the funk of AfroPunk!

The 10 Major Cool Things About AfroPunk…

1. The beautiful Afrikans! -Gazing into the crowd, we looked so good ya’ll! Go Brown people! Everyone was fly! The Diaspora was well represented.

2. The Music- Oh my! LiAnn La Havas, D’Angelo, SZA, Me’Shell Ndegeocello, Shabazz Palaces, and The Internet were among my favorite.

3. The Vendors- Handmade goods galore! We are so talented! These were the best vendors that I have seen at a festival, ever!

4. The Free Things- they were giving away some very valuable merchandise. No contest, just walk up. Lovely.

5. The Good Vibrations and Energy of the Crowd- Everyone was so welcoming and full of love! “I got the vibrations to change the nation, lick shots in the air, crowd participation!”

6. The Photographers- AfroPunk is well documented.

7. The Artists- There were so many expressionists and bold people who were just rocking eccentric styles! I appreciated the confidence. Keep ya head up!

8. The Bonding Experience of Going with People- Although the ladies I went with only recently joined my Universe, they were great to experience AfroPunk with. We were on the same frequency.

9. What AfroPunk represents and the AfroPunk Official Merchandise. Everything sold out. This festival represents so much positivity. Image of No Hate (Black)

10. The Appreciation- The people who organize AfroPunk are so appreciative of the participants. They walked around and mingled. So wonderful. They send out nice emails to thank you for attending:

THANK YOU
There are few words that can express the amount of gratitude that we have for the AFROPUNK community.  People who consciously make an effort to join us year after year at the festival and online, supporters from around the block and around the world that come together for two days to celebrate culture and freedom with us. For that and more, thank you! See you next year!

Shila Iris for AfrikanEssence… I like saying AfroPunk… smile. Lol.

The Season of the Virgo… I’ll be gone by “September” by Marian Mereba

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VERSE:  Thought we, were a lie, that was fine in the dark… But you, are a storm, to my flame, to my spark

BRIDGE:  Used to turn me on, so on, cause your love was a drug that was stuck in my vein… Now you turn me off, so off, cause I’m sober and over the high

CHORUS:  On my life, I’ll be gone by September, and you’re going to remember… You must’ve forgot I’mma a Queen, you’ll be gone by December… On my momma, I’ll be gone by September… And you’re going to remember… the loyal, the royal, Queen… the loyal, the royal, Queen, the loyal…

VERSE: I was as true, as a forest is green… You, are a fool, for what, you did not see

BRIDGE:  You used to turn me on, so on, cause your love was a drug that was stuck in my vein… Now you turn me off, so off, cause I’m sober and over the high”

CHORUS:  On my life, I’ll be gone by September, and you’re going to remember… You must’ve forgot I’mma a Queen, you’ll be gone by December… On my momma, I’ll be gone by September… And you’re going to remember… the loyal, the royal, Queen… the loyal, the royal, Queen, the loyal…

yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah… you could’ve had it all… all… all… all, yeah, yeah…

Love this song… especially at… 2:46…

mm

Shila Iris for AfrikanEssence; August 28, 2014, 10:08 p.m.

Reasons Why I Want to Go to AfroPunk Fest 2014

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I love the wonderful, artistic, and eccentric expressions from the tribe we call African Americans, Afrikans, or the colorful people of the Diaspora!  The beautiful and poetic faces. The funky and stylish kindred spirits.

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AfroPunk tends to attract the fearless ONES. Those who travel on that untouchable frequency. They levitate. The vibe is heavy. Who wants to go and check out “the other” Black experience? Here’s the website. Dates: August 23-24, 2014. BK, NY.

The type of music that you could hear at an AfroPunk Fest.

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Peace and love,

Shila Iris aka Queen, July 28, 2014, 12:53 a.m.

Ancient Dreams & Tantric Wisdom… the show

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COME CHECK out the band, Intercourse the Collective, this FRIDAY, JUNE 13 AT LIL’ AFRICA AKA THE KITCHEN located at 6816 Superior Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44103.

INTERCOURSE THE COLLECTIVE

This show will feature myself and my wonderful playmates- vocalist: RaShimba WildBloom, Drummer: Ali Boyd, Keyboard Player: Egan Ammerman, and the Digital Griot: jAfterDark. We will be doing a special tribute to the late Rayshawn Armstrong who was a well-known Cleveland poet and community driven activist. Thank you to poet, Bianca Michelle and artist, Latoya Kent for their participation in this show. Peace and love! See you there.

shila iris aka Queen