About this item

Gratitude is the eagerly anticipated new solo album from Abiodun Oyewole, the poet, teacher and founding member of The Last Poets. The album liner notes include an extensive new interview with Abiodun himself, detailing the writing process of the album. Looking back, the Last Poets are often referred to as the godfathers of rap, and by listening to their early recordings; it’s easy to hear why. Their words encompass revolution, sex, death, drugs, and Black Power - they own their words. From their mouths – words are a sense of pride, a statement, and a feeling of empowerment. There’s no self-conscious hang-up with the Last Poets using words as an art form.

On May 19th, 1968 (in celebration of Malcolm X’s birthday), The Last Poets performed their first ever concert in Mount Morris Park (in Harlem), now called Marcus Garvey Park. Their debut album was released in 1970 including poet/singer Abiodun Oyewole. Now AFAR is proud to present a whole new way of thinking socially, politically, emotionally, and humanly – via the perspective of Abiodun Oyewole of The Last Poets with his new solo album ‘Gratitude’ - it's not a protest album, it's an inspirational LP/CD via the inclusive words and God-like voice of Abiodun - this is not an angry man, but an older wiser man - reflecting on his life and spiritual quests. Rappers love him for coining the phrase "Party and Bullshit" decades ago - but this is not that - this is a sacred journey with a universal message for all people regardless of their background and nationality.

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: A modern day contributions to the annals of hip-hop from, arguable, one of it's very founding fathers. Losing none of his poignant edge on social commentary, "Gratitude" is the self-empowering tonic to the present times you never knew you needed.

TRACK LISTING

A1 Rain (Featuring Taylor Pace)
A2 My Life
A3 A Poem
B1 Harlem
B2 Brooklyn (featuring Ade Da Poet)
B3 To Begin (featuring Pharoah Davis) 
C1 Praise The Lord C2 Spirit (featuring Melodie Nicole)
C3 Without You (featuring Jessica Care Moore) 
D1 Occupy (featuring Mosi)
D2 Right Here Waiting (featuring J Ivy)
D3 What I Want To See