Mwalim A Bronx Boheme
As you listen, consider: what is the soundtrack of where you come from?
Artist’s Note
“Bronx Boheme™ is my creative brand for my work in music, literature, and theater. Storytelling is a central element to human existence. Our history, philosophy, lore, and experiences are the basic subjects from which we draw stories. For the Mixtape I wanted to create an audio experience of the creative energy emitting from the streets and parks of The Bronx, New York. The post - WWII era of the Bronx saw an influx of people from the West Indies, Puerto Rico, and Cuba, along with African Americans migrating from the South. The musical collision of jazz, soul, funk, calypso, reggae, klezmer, and Afro-Latin genres gave birth to Bugalu and eventually hip-hop. Pioneering House Music DJ Frankie Knuckles was from the Bronx. The beat he popularized—found as the basis of many forms of dance music from the African Diaspora—is like a heartbeat.
“With 'A Bronx Boheme', I attempt to capture five minutes of the jazzy-soulful-funky-spicy-groovy life energy of a place that taught the whole world how to make something out of nothing."
About the Artist
Mwalim, a member of the Commission on the Arts, is an educator, performing artist, writer, filmmaker, and Black Arts scholar.
Additional Notes
“A BRONX BOHEME” Composed, Arranged & Produced by MWALIM DaPhunkee Professor
Personnel:
Mwalim - Piano, bass, percussion, spoken-word, backing vocals, jazz scat.
ZYG 808 - Drums, percussion, backing vocals.
Charlie S. - Trumpet, backing vocals.
Recorded, Produced, Mixed & Mastered at Polyphonic Studios, Buzzard’s Bay, MA June 17, 2021
Supervising Engineer: Chuck V.
Explore Mixtape
Commission on the Arts
The Commission - drawing on the expertise of its members who are artists, scholars, activists, and leaders, as well as the input of people across the country who participated in listening sessions - dedicated itself to recognizing and supporting the essential role of the arts and artists in American life.