The Great Neo-Soul Playing Cards
The Greatest R&B and Neo-Soul artists whose music speaks volume on awareness, encouragement, and defying love.
I chose artists that gave me a better understanding to what music should sound in an audience's ear. Such as cycles of losing and falling in love with your craft, go through life changes with creative concepts(s), and delivering messages to inspire an audience. I gave the theme of the cards to the movie 'The Great Gatsby" in with the concept of the roaring 20s (where the development of jazz music began) and the main character's determination to restore love again.
"Let’s love ourselves then we can’t fail to make a better situation tomorrow. Our seeds will grow, all we need is dedication."
- Lauryn Hill
King of Diamonds
I chose Lauryn Hill for the King mainly because I was more in tone with her music first when I was younger and I couldn't stop observing how she deliver her music with social messages to keep her audience aware, keep a natural look that you normally don't see with modern day artist, and along with her music giving that feel good about who you are.
Queen of Diamonds
Choosing artist Sade to be the queen of diamonds was definitely a choice for one of my playing cards' design because she's made music feel as if it just wasn't her talent, but the love of her life. Until this very day, I listen to her music to clear my mind (or meditation), focus on my creative process, and even have a few sing a-longs.
Jack of Diamonds
Coming in age, Aaliyah was one of many role models that had a sense of being humble and charismatic. I chose her to be the jack because her music was something different compared to the other artists I chose. Her life may have ended too soon for the world to get her musical capabilities, however her music still gives life of understanding R&B.
Ace of Diamonds
Words can't truly describe why I chose Erykah Badu for my ace. Her creativity with exploring music, poetic flows, and her free spirit uplifts me as a person. I most definitely vibe to her music in any given day
Big Joker
I chose Solange as the joker because in my opinion, her music is underrated and it shouldn't be that way. Her messages to speak out on the truth is what this generation needs.
"Artists need some kind of stimulating experience a lot of times, which crystallizes when you sing about it or paint it or sculpt it. You literally mold the experience the way you want. It's therapy."
- Erykah Badu