After a 4-year wait, Solange “Solange” Knowles has finally given her fans new music in A Seat at the Table, a compilation of funk, neo soul, psychedelic soul, R&B tunes that can only be described as a journey through the pain and joy of black womanhood in America.
Over the years, Knowles has tested out a number of different sounds beginning with the release of Solo Star at the genesis of her solo career. Solo Star, released in 2003, was a compilation of hip-hop tracks produced by major figures including Timbaland and the Neptunes.
Knowles wrote, arranged, and co-produced the album, creating fitting visuals alongside director-husband Alan Ferguson. “….but most of all,” Knowles tweeted on Tuesday, “I feel like a better human after releasing A Seat At The Table. A better woman, a better mom, a better wife. Thank you.”
The album includes heart-wrenching songs like ‘Cranes In the Sky’, that encompass the bittersweet process of self-realization; while ‘Don’t Touch My Hair’ speaks to people of color who have experienced discrimination on account of the texture of their hair; and ‘F.U.B.U.’ as it serves as a powerful black anthem.
Knowles sets the mood of each track on the album with a powerful interlude. Legendary producer Master P speaks on self-worth on the “Glory Is In You” interlude; mother, Tina Lawson expresses the beauty in being black on the “Tina Taught Me” interlude; and father Matthew Knowles recalls the racism, segregation, and integration that he encountered in his youth on the “Dad Was Mad” interlude.
“A Seat at the Table” appeals to anyone with an ear for smooth and heartfelt R&B.
Solange makes black women feel as if Solange has put their thoughts, emotions, and experiences into a timeless piece of art that will never fail to remind us of who we are, and how lovely it is to be us.