It's 2016, the year that keeps on giving [depending on how you interpret it], with many events of both good and bad (the Presidential election included). However, this is also the year where #BlackGirlMagic, #BlackBoyJoy and #BlackLivesMatter are more important than ever. With more and more artists tapping into that energy, it's evident that this feeling is here to stay. The energy spoken of is prevalent in Solange's third album, 'A Seat At The Table'.
In 'A Seat At The Table,' Solange exudes a mellow yet powerful and confident energy, all while staying true to her soulful roots. The album dropped at midnight on September 30, streaming on Tidal and released on iTunes. Sol took to her Twitter to share the news of the album release, and did a Q&A with fans on what inspired the album's creation. She even had an intimate album listening session on Saturday in Brooklyn, NY with fifteen lucky fans. Not to mention the features on the album which include Lil Wayne, The Dream, Sampha, some singing from Q-Tip (yes, you read that right), and many more. There are also nine interludes, with stories from her parents, Tina Lawson and Mathew Knowles, as well as a surprising one from Master P on his No Limit record label, and how he got to where he is today. Plus a short song interlude featuring Kelly Rowland reminding you to not lose your 'magic'.
As mentioned earlier, some of the interludes tell stories of experiences with racism, pro-blackness, and starting and running a black-owned business while not selling-out to big time record companies. It's safe to say that one can learn a lot from this album, or at least be familiar. In addition, there are set visuals for 'A Seat At The Table' on Solange's website directed by both her and her husband, Alan Ferguson. A Seat At The Table is definitely something to sit back and relax too, all while resonating with the message of being as proud and unashamed of your blackness as possible.
All in all, Solange's third album is a force to be reckoned with. Slightly unlike it's predecessor, 2008's 'Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams', 'A Seat At The Table' takes a more subtle, yet powerful approach, which works. It's difficult to find a song to dislike on this album, which makes it all the better to enjoy. It's always good to have a refreshing breath of fresh air in today's music, and this album is just it. Don't believe? Listen for yourself. Just sit back, relax and take a seat at the table.
