Maya Angelou’s Writings to Be Featured On a Hip-Hop CD

By Maryann Yin 

Maya AngelouMaya Angelou’s writings have inspired a new hip-hop CD called “Caged Bird Sings.” The title comes from Angelou’s 1969 autobiography, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.

Angelou took an active role in the creation of this project and was able to complete it prior to her passing. Her words serve as the lyrics for the thirteen songs on this album. In an interview with The Associated Press, Angelou’s grandson Colin A. Johnson revealed that the famed poet was a fan of hip-hop music.

The article reports that Angelou “completely backed the project, which was recorded at her North Carolina home. Some of the songs use previously recorded Angelou vocals, while others were recorded specifically for the project.” A release date has been scheduled for November 04, 2014. What do you think?