Jive to Izzy SL’s groovy afro-soul anthem, ‘Black Mona Lisa’
The artist/producer from Sierra Leone, Izzy SL, pays homage to the enduring strength beauty and charm of women of color the world over.
It opens onto warm, colorful arrangements, exotic percussions, shakers and rhythms, riding on a soulful guitar melody. Its the kind of rhythm that you feel in your hips and heart!
Soft, flirtatious vocals enter, inviting you to join in Izzy’s uplifting homage. Izzy’s smooth, introspective lyricism creates a safe but evocative space where he acknowledges all Black women as masterpieces. He strays away from objectifying; rather, he’s expressing deep gratitude and admiration. His soothing melodic delivery paired with the afro rhythmic groove makes his words feel all the more intimate yet universal.
‘Black Mona Lisa’ boasts of a sublime structure and slowness. At just over 3 mins, it’s crisp yet creates ample space for reflection and groove. The instrumentation, particularly the afro horns, punctuated between verses and added a festive, celebratory vibe to the opus. This spaciousness enables Izzy’s vocals to come back in the third conclusion with a renewed vigor and soul.
‘Black Mona Lisa’ leaves you feeling upbeat and appreciative. A stirring reminder of all the injustice and cruelty Black Women have endured since time immemorial and for us all to come together and give them, and all women, the respect and grace they so deserve.
A native of Sierra Leone, Izzy SL began to find refuge in music at an early age. He has proven to have many accolades to showcase his skills. The most prominent has been his performance at Fest Africa, which is known to be the largest African festival in the United States.
