“I met this phenom many, many moons ago at DLB, and I was instantly smitten. She’s always marched to the beat of her own fuckin’ drum—and still does. So much respect. And then I heard her sing… oh mylanta. Her voice absolutely floored me.
She moved to Richmond at 18 and is still killing it at 81. “I reversed the numbers, baby.”
In this episode, we dive into her life—her upbringing, the trials and tribulations, and how she fell in love with music through her father, who was a promoter. Gospel. Soul. Jazz. It’s all in her blood. She tells us about her early performances, and the terrifying circumstances surrounding them. Trigger warning: there’s a dark chapter involving a certain hateful clan she had to survive—literally had to be hidden from.
I couldn’t have asked for a better guest. It hit home for me in a big way. My grandmother, “Baby,” was a force in my life—but she didn’t have to endure what this woman did. Full stop. End rant.
Huge thanks to Fuzzy Cactus for providing the space, to Nodderly for documenting this banger, and to RVA Magazine for always having our back. Everything lately feels like a fever dream. If you need a boost, listen to this badass woman—especially her poem at the end. It’ll stay with you.” — host, Harrison Christy
RVA Magazine presents It’s Still Our City, a podcast hosted by Harrison Christy and with Clair Morgan as co-host and producer through NODDERLY. It’s an unfiltered dive into what gives Richmond, VA its edge, its charm, and its soul. If you’ve ever wondered what makes this city tick, this one’s for you.
Support RVA Magazine. Support independent media in Richmond.
In a world where corporations and wealthy individuals now shape much of our media landscape, RVA Magazine remains fiercely independent, amplifying the voices of Richmond’s artists, musicians, and community. Since 2005, we’ve been dedicated to authentic, grassroots storytelling that highlights the people and culture shaping our city.
But we can’t do this without you. A small donation, even as little as $2 – one-time or recurring – helps us continue to produce honest, local coverage free from outside interference. Every dollar makes a difference. Your support keeps us going and keeps RVA’s creative spirit alive. Thank you for standing with independent media. DONATE HERE.
Also, you can show your support by purchasing our merch HERE.
