Afrofuturism: Cultural Grounding, Black Arts, and Technology (Ft. Stokley)

Stokley Williams, best known simply as "Stokley" is a Grammy-nominated, billboard chart-topping artist who keeps his tie to the culture strong, embracing the spirit of "Sankofa" or looking back to the past as we move to the future. Stokley joins Chris and Sharif to discuss the importance of Afrofuturism and the power of the arts in the black community. He talks about his formative years and cultural background growing up in Minnesota, with Black educator activists for parents. 

Stokley discusses the influence of African culture on his music the importance of education, passing down cultural knowledge, and parenting in the modern context. The episode highlights the need for cultural centers and the impact of technology on parenting. Stokley shares his unique journey and the importance of Black education in his life. He emphasizes the need to encourage creativity and exploration in children. 

Stokley is a GRAMMY-nominated vocalist, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist who has worked with artists including Prince, Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Snoop Dogg, H.E.R. and more. He’s known best as the lead singer and drummer for legendary R&B group Mint Condition. In 2017, Stokley embarked on a new solo journey with the release of his debut album Introducing Stokley which produced two #1 singles “Organic” and “Level," and his second solo album, "Sankofa" includes the billboard #1 hit "She."