Poetic Playlist: 3 Collections by Musicians Coming Out This Year
Poetry and music have a natural and long-standing connection. The two art forms are both known for their lyricism, rhythm, and strong sense of emotion. In fact, music often stands out as a crucial part of a poet’s writing routine. Music and poetry are so intertwined that many artists experiment with and achieve success in both genres. These musical poets—all of whom are releasing a collection in 2021—exemplify this multifaceted talent.
Old Monarch by Courtney Marie Andrews
Releasing April 6, 2021
Courtney Marie Andrews is an award-winning songwriter and has contributed background vocals to Jimmy Eat World’s album Invented. Her seventh solo album, Old Flowers, received a 2020 Grammy nomination for Best Americana Album. In her debut poetry collection, Old Monarch, Andrews takes inspiration from familiar sources: her Arizona childhood, her family, and romantic longing, bringing these themes to a new genre.
Just like Andrew’s songwriting, the poems in Old Monarch are folksy, voice-driven, and informed by a deep sense of place. The collection takes readers on a journey in three parts and mirrors the transformative cycle of its namesake creature, the monarch butterfly.
Maps for the Modern World by Valerie June Hockett
Releasing April 6, 2021
Multi-instrumental musician Valerie June Hockett transcends genre, incorporating soul, bluegrass, and country influences into her renowned music. In a 2017 interview, Pulitzer Prize winner Bob Dylan named Hockett as one of his favorite artists and modern-day influences.
Hockett released her latest album, The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers, in March of this year. Her poetry collection, Maps for the Modern World, comes close behind this April, establishing her as a multimodal creator. Above all, Maps for the Modern World celebrates the power and significance of pursuing one’s dreams.
Vulnerable AF by Tarriona “Tank” Ball
Releasing June 8, 2021
Tarriona “Tank” Ball is a member of Tank and the Bangas, nominated for 2020 Best New Artist at the Grammy Awards. Ball got her start as a slam poet, enhancing the craft behind both her lyrics and the poems in her first collection.
Vulnerable AF is the tale of a relationship told in verse, chronicling the stages of infatuation, heartbreak, and the eventual power of regaining confidence and self-love.
Check out more Read Poetry recommendations for collections by poets who are also musicians!
