When We See Each Other Ep 2.6

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

Host Nikkiesha McLeod dives into an enlightening discussion with Vahn Black, a multifaceted vocalist, producer, and memory worker whose artistic journey reflects a rich tapestry of musical influences and personal identity. The conversation covers everything from the current sociopolitical climate to the intricate process of musical creation. Vahn shares her personal journey of emotional resilience, drawing strength from the historical context of jazz music as a source of defiance and solace. This leads to a broader discussion about the intersection of art and social justice, illustrating how Vahn’s creative expression is both a personal and collective act of resistance. Vahn elaborates on the importance of joy as an integral part of that resistance, allowing music to act as a refuge amidst adversity.

The episode provides a glimpse into Vahn’s early inspirations and musical pedigree, notably how her upbringing in Detroit—a city vibrant with musical history—shaped her artistic path. Vahn recounts the pivot point in her life when she realized music could be a profession and the transformative journey she undertook in her music education. She reflects on how attending the Detroit School of Arts solidified her passion for music, leading to an exploration of various instruments including guitar, bass, and baritone ukulele. She reveals the intricacies of how she develops her music—ranging from initial ideas captured in voice memos to elaborate arrangements. Vahn’s storytelling often reflects personal experiences intertwined with wider socio-cultural themes, with the aim of representing underrepresented narratives in music. In particular, Vahn shares about their decision to create a trilogy inspired by Gladys Bentley, a black lesbian drag king from the Harlem Renaissance, detailing how their story has profoundly resonated with Vahn’s own reflections on gender fluidity and identity.

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