I'm the kind of person that can recognize artists a few words into the song. Every singer has a unique way of modulating their voice, of pronouncing certain sounds and ultimately of conveying their emotions to their audience. When I hear her voice I have to stop and listen because I know she is saying something I would like to hear told.
I love music: I was raised in a house were music was always playing, all of my siblings and I learned to play at least one instument. I married a sound technician: for real!! Music is an integral and uncompromisable part of my existence and Alicia's husky and soulful voice is it's wonderfully poignant soundtrack.
I'm now almost 27, born and raised in a military family overseas so I never had the chance to see her perform.. I finally got that chance this year and I couldn't believe it when I found myself singing my heart out with tears streaming down my face. She was "singing my life with her words" and to this moment it my heart is bursting with gratitude and awe.
I had a chance to see her on television (here overseas, can you believe it?!?) in a series called Iconoclasts where she met her mentor Ruby Dee. They both are such special women who are an inspiration to myself and many other ladies out there.
I am a fan, because this wonderful talented artist and woman makes me feel that there is still hope and there are yet possibilities for a better today and tomorrow.