The soul is often referred to as the part of ourselves which lives on after we die – the raw, unfiltered and authentic part which makes a person human. It is also an adjective closely connected to Black culture, food and music. ‘Soul music’ ‘Soul food,’ Manu Dibango’s ‘Soul Makossa,’ fill you up and have a distinct warmth, depth and undeniable comfort connected to them. When something is described as having ‘soul,’ it often means it has a remarkable and distinct quality that is undeniably good.

When I started creating ‘music for my soul,’ I wanted to surround myself with music that encouraged me to confront uncomfortable emotions, while uplifting me in the process. I have always had a particular interest in music which rejuvenates and music that guides. It’s why I make ‘self-soothing’ playlists, its why I made and shared ‘rora’ earlier this year and it’s also why I am sharing ‘music for my soul,’ now. Through ‘music for my soul’ I wanted to make a short collection of songs, which serve as an effective ‘pick me up’ for the hard days. What speaks to my soul may not directly speak to yours, but if you decide to listen, I hope ‘music for my soul’ helps you as much as it’s helped me. It may not make your problems feel lighter, but at the very least, I intend for it to make you feel something– and by something, I mean a good and peaceful thing.

I hope you return to it when you feel lost, when there are holes in your chest that self-doubt, fear or loss have hooked themselves through. I hope you listen and feel guided back to your source – whatever or whoever that may be (for me, it’s Allah). I wish I understood this earlier, but knowing your source is one thing, recognising the tools which lead you to said source is another thing entirely. Creating ‘music for my soul,’ was a remainder that music is an important tool for me, and I need to lean on it more often when I feel lost and scattered. With this playlist, I gave myself permission to breathe. I gave myself permission to lean on music again and let it connect me to my core, to my source. For that reason alone, I think ‘music for my soul,’ is worth explaining in this way and sharing with you.

Love,
zbk