In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, Davey D engaged with Detroit’s multifaceted talent, Jessica Care Moore, for a conversation that spanned the breadth of musical influence and innovation. Moore, a poet who has recorded songs with everyone from the Last Poets to Talib Kweli, is also an author, actress, publisher, and the driving force behind Black Women Rock, an organization she founded that offers a platform celebrating the rich tapestry of Black women’s contributions to music.
The dialogue opened with a discussion on Beyoncé’s new venture into country music, a move Moore sees as a return to the roots for Black artists, given the genre’s origins. She highlighted the need to recognize and celebrate the diverse expressions of Black women in music, referencing rock and roll and funk pioneer Betty Davis as an inspiration for her own work.
During the conversation Black women country artists like Miko Marks and Mickey Guyton who have been on the scene for a while were uplifted. Marks who hails from the Bay Area is currently on tour with Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. The question was raised as to whether or not Beyonce embracing country would shed light on the works on aforementioned women and other Black country artists.
The conversation took a deep dive into the historical and ongoing impact of Black music on genres like rock and roll, emphasizing its foundational role and influence on artists across the musical spectrum. Moore pointed out the significant, yet often overlooked, contributions of Black women to the genre, lamenting their underrepresentation in accolades such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Exploring the challenges faced by Black women in the music industry, Moore critiqued the pressures to adhere to specific musical styles and the importance of identity reclamation. She shared her experiences collaborating with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and her pride in her lyrical content, showcasing her versatility and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
The conversation discussed in detail the contributions of Black women icons like Big Mama Thornton (Willie Mae Thornton), Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Aretha Franklin, Nona Hendryx, Tina Turner, and Grace Jones, to name a few. With respect to Jones, Jessica spoke about her impact and being a trailblazer in fashion and performance. Moore expressed a desire to honor Jones at the upcoming Black Women Rock anniversary.
As the conversation moved through the Detroit music scene, the loss of influential musician Amp Fiddler, and Moore’s publishing endeavors, it painted a picture of a community rich in history and innovation. The dialogue between Moore and Davey D was a testament to the enduring power and relevance of Black music, celebrating its ability to inspire, challenge, and transform. We concluded by talking about Jessica’s latest music project with singer Steffanie Christi’ An called ‘We Are Scorpio’ They just released a song called Supa Dupa Star that features Talib Kweli.
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