World voice in Leeuwarden
You spotted it right: aja monet – the Grammy-nominated “blues poet” who has toured many a metropolis with her blend of poetry and top notch jazz – is coming to our festival! A world-class artist who gets language lovers and music lovers alike on the edge of their seats. Not for nothing does she move effortlessly between literary stages and the biggest jazz festivals.
Connecting worlds is what Monet excels at anyway. Understanding your profession is one thing, but with monet it is about more: her poetry is inspired, activist and deeply rooted in social movements. She made a deep impression with her debut album when the poems do what they do: a musical ode to Black resistance, love, justice and the tireless search for joy. Themes you have to feel. Monet succeeds wonderfully.
Earlier this year her beautiful new book of poetry Florida Water was published and she is also working on a new album. Chances are that she will treat Leeuwarden to a glowing mix of her acclaimed debut album and brand new work. Don’t miss this voice; it’s not only top-level music and poetry, but also a much-needed reminder of what connects us.