With Black History Month upon us, we’re celebrating by sharing stories and voices from the Black community, highlighting the incredible work of some of our partners in the arts, music and food spaces.
This week, we’re spotlighting Toronto-based singer-songwriter Witch Prophet. Combining hip-hop, jazz, and soul-inspired beats, she describes her sound as “Erykah Badu meets Lauryn Hill meets Portishead.” Her 2020 LP D.N.A Activation was shortlisted for the 2020 Polaris Prize.
We caught up with the artist, who has shared the stage and opened for acts like Lido Pimienta, The Hallucination (fka A Tribe Called Red), JPEGMAFIA and more, about her current projects, inspirations, and why she loves learning off of YouTube. Catch Witch Prophet at Drake Underground (You can snag tickets on Ticketmaster here) on March 26 and find her on Instagram here (@witchprophet)
+ What are you working on right now personally/professionally that has you excited?
Currently I’m working on my album Gateway Experience. Its theme is the connection between temporal lobe epilepsy, dreams, the effects on the body, mind, soul and its connection to God/other figures. Produced by my wife SUN SUN, it’ll have a plethora of fantastic features. Hoping for it to be out by the fall.
I’m also looking forward to two documentaries that I’m part of being released later this year— one about music and the other one about witches.
+ What change would you like to see in your industry when it comes to Black representation?
I would like to see more mentorship and opportunities for financial sustainability as well as financial literacy. We don’t just need a seat at the table, but rather we need ownership on all levels. As creators of the culture, we need to recognize the value in our utilities.
+ What tools have helped you along your journey?
I’m a big fan of learning off YouTube. You’d be surprised how much information is on there. From learning about music business, labels, PR and marketing, to watching someone make a beat or record with the same program I use. It’s been a great tool.
+ What Toronto changemakers and artists are inspiring you and why?
Aside from being the first artist in the city to reach out to me and book me for a show in the early 2000s, SATE (@stateofsate) is and has always been a major inspiration to me. A fierce, Black, magical woman overflowing with depth, compassion and mind-blowing talent. A true Toronto legend.