Minneapolis based Black Blondie is a band in the purest sense of the word: the tightly knit four-piece unit collectively writes and performs all of their music. Black Blondie's daring frontwoman, Samahra, has the attitude and charisma of a punk rock diva. She has a voice that would serve any American Idol three times over but lyrics that shock with wit and intellect. You may be reminded of the poetic confessions of a Midwestern emo boy who makes you wanna rip your heart out and cradle it in your hand, but in the next minute she will inspire you to put on your hot pink stilettos, party the night away at a grungy D.C. go-go club, and sign a check to the World Wildlife Fund with a quill tipped pen. Bass player, Liz Draper, plays her upright and electric basses as effortlessly as any conservatory bred musician would, yet still sounds like a dirty hip hop sample. Kahlil Brewington's drums lock in as one with the bass and are laced with sophisticated dub and dancehall stylings. Tasha Baron attacks percussive Afrobeat organ lines and plays keyboard atmospheres reminiscent of the Sun Ra Arkestra. Samahra's vocals intermingle enigmatically with this striking and raw musical environment. Black Blondie's live show, distinctive song writing and innovative musical style has found them sharing the stage with The Roots, Jill Scott, Amy Winehouse, Meshell Ndgeocello, The Coup and J*Davey and a spot in URB Magazine's 'Next 100' for 2008.
“Visually, Black Blondie are a Benetton rainbow of multiculti allure;
sonically, they're a mélange of trance-inducing rhythm and blues.†-CP
***The songs, Gum Drop, Candy Cigarettes, Knife Fights and Xmas Lights, & Dressed to Kill a Mockingbird, currently on our page, also feature the vocals of Sarah White, formerly of Black Blondie.
Black Blondie Vocalist: Samahra:
Black Blondie Rhythm Section (also known as: "Lil Black Blondie":
Kahlil Brewington [drums], Liz Draper [bass] and Tasha Baron [keys and boxes]:
past shows:
BLACK BLONDIE in CHICAGO: OCT 4, 2007!
BLACK BLONDIE in NYC:
BLACK BLONDIE in Philly @ Black Lily:
DRE DAY.
Black Blondie was nominated for R&B Artist/Group of the Year for the 2006 Minnesota Music Awards!!!!!!!
Black Blondie won: for DRUMROLL.................................................... .................. .......BEST BAND NAME of 2006!! BAM !
***Liz teaches bass lessons and Tasha teaches piano lessons at WBSM. Send a message to the black blondie inbox if you're interested in taking lessons... !!