Lady Blackbird’s Slang Spirituals: A Soulful Journey of Self-Discovery and Transformation
Written by: Mikaila Storrs
Lady Blackbird has once again teamed up with Black Acid Soul producer Chris Seefried for their second album, Slang Spiritual, set to drop on September 13. We had the privilege of previewing the album ahead of its release, and it is nothing short of extraordinary.
Lady Blackbird grew up in a Christian household in Farmington, New Mexico. She began singing as early as she could walk and often reflects on the complexities of growing up in a religious environment while also exploring her own sexuality. “Once I entered my teenage years, I started to realize that religion was something that was put on me and it never felt right,” she says. “As I also began to develop my own identity as a queer woman, I felt judged as an outcast and labeled as a sinner. It was burying who I really was, and I needed to find a way out.”
Many people who grow up in the church share this experience. I know I’ve felt it at times in my own life, and I think anyone introduced to religion at a young age has to eventually navigate their personal relationship with faith and spirituality as they mature.
By taking control of her life and sound, Lady Blackbird forges a new path with Slang Spiritual, each note marking a bold departure from her past work. The album's soulful, almost spiritual sound reflects her journey from leaving the church and grappling with feelings of sin to discovering a more personal connection with her faith.
The standout track, "Reborn," embodies the theme of personal transformation, capturing her journey of reclaiming control over her life. The song reflects the process of shedding an old self, rising from the ashes like a phoenix. This powerful theme resonates throughout the album, emphasizing the strength found in self-discovery and breaking free from what no longer serves you. A poignant lyric, “I don’t blame nobody else / I take this one myself,” highlights her accountability for her past experiences, while affirming her inner strength to build a life where she feels truly accepted and confident.
My favorite song on the album is "The City." It emphasizes that personal growth doesn't come from the good times, but from the challenges we face. You have to pull yourself out of the darkest moments to truly become someone. The song reflects how we all do what’s necessary to succeed.
Lady Blackbird’s debut album Black Acid Soul has garnered universal praise, earning 5-star reviews and global recognition. Her captivating performance on the UK’s star-studded The Graham Norton Show left audiences in awe, including Taylor Swift, who was at a loss for words. I can’t wait to see how her second album, Slang Spiritual, will be received and where it will take her next!
