“Belly” performed with Todd Gholar

This poem is over 10 years old, originally written as the story of a woman struggling with body acceptance and allowing herself to be fully seen and experienced. It also addresses an overall theme in all of my work—addiction and unhealthy coping mechanisms. I enjoyed resurrecting this poem out of the archives and sharing as this version of me that has more honor and appreciation for all parts of my body. Especially now in my 40s going through perimenopause and having to accept however that displays on my body. I now see this poem as a love letter and example of how romantic love and seeing yourself through the eyes of another can be a healing experience that can provide encouragement and reinforcement on the journey towards self-love. I woke up 2 days before the show and decided I wanted to do this poem to this particular beat— Glory Box, by Portishead because the song ignites the grown woman in me. I had to scramble to re-memorize the words and fit it into the song and I am so happy how it turned out. I may have to bring this back as a signature piece, it just hits different now that I am older. It was an honor to work with Todd Gholar on bass, for the first music show I’ve done this year! S/o to Gabriel on drums and the team at the Amalgamation Festival and Rhizome DC. Enjoy!