6/5/2023 0 Comments Joi singerWith her debut, Gilliam showed posterity how to address the worst of society’s conditioning without coming off as contrived or preachy, which tend to have serious overlap. Decades after the song’s release, you’re much more likely to hear Black women explore their sexuality on record (Victoria Monét, Janelle Monae). At the time, popular songs about queerness from Black artists were not overwhelmingly common, further setting Gilliam apart and helping her carve out her own lane as an artist and a sensual being. “I tantalize, I mesmerize, I can do whatever I want to.The other side is calling and I want to go with you,” she sings, referencing a potential sensual encounter with a woman. Gilliam delved into sexuality in her song “Narcissa Cutie Pie,” a loud and proud anthem about bisexuality. Together they crafted Gilliam’s 1994 debut, ‘The Pendulum Vibe,’ a cult classic adored for its feminist themes, over the course of three weeks. The singer/songwriter is a proud Tennessee native, which is made apparent by her use of the alias “Tennessee Slim Kitty.” After leaving Tennessee State University and moving to the everlasting musical-hotbed of Atlanta in the early 1990s, she crossed paths with Dallas Austin, the producer/songwriter famous for his work with TLC, Boyz II Men and Macy Gray. I hope you feel what I’m doing.” Not only is Joi deeply felt, she is admired by many and her album ‘The Pendulum Vibe’ proves she is a staple in avant garde soul focused on liberation. It’s the most powerful medium, for better or worse. “After all of these years, music is still a lifeline to sanity, memory, and inspiration for me. “I get excited to pull the machete out and clear my own path,” she says in her official bio. Unbound to the beaten road of pop’s trendsetters (constantly producing content and publicized struggles with sonic evolution/personal growth), she’s walked tall during her 25+ years in the music industry and shows no signs of slowing.
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