Malcolm London: His Words Reach
Malcolm London, a man armed with poetry and endless passion for change. He uses his voice to express the disparities plaguing the Chicago area, as well as the world, unafraid of challenging his listener's views. Feel uncomfortable, feel sad, and feel incredibly happy to be a part of a world in which a voice can echo this deeply for the next generation.London collaborates with a wide variety of musicians, from Jamila Woods to Vic Mensa, creating songs that both inspire and “open your eyes.” I first fell in love with London's title track "Opia." I stumbled upon it during a sonically spiraling Spotify session, we’ve all been there. It was London's explicit verses, holding a mantra-like message and creating the intensity of looking someone in the eye, which asks us to look beyond. It’s a concept that resonates with many as we all begin to navigate who we are and what grows the fire burning underneath our feet. His embers caught my eye.The album, Opia, is a raw yet complex look into who London is. Each song is introspective, highlighting a new layer to the identity London has grown into, an advocate, a poet, and a voice for change that's distinctly human. London's repertoire goes beyond creating music. He's a founder of OpenMike, a monthly safe-space for Chicago high school students to grow, share, and network with like-minded individuals. He's given TEDx talks and has even represented the delegation We Charge Genocide at a United Nations conference to combat police brutality. London's words reach branches tall and small.Attend the Canopy Club on March 15th for a show that's sure to push boundaries beyond music. Come to learn, to hear, and to grow.(Tix: $10 ADV or $12 DOS)