Raised as an only child in a one-parent household, I didn’t really have much of a choice in whether I could commune with the female energy in my life. Between my mother and various aunts, these were my childhood role models and caretakers. Male energy came from pro wrestlers mainly, and later from rock stars and rappers (which explains a lot), but I was definitely inundated with the spirit of women in my upbringing.

This definitely has had an effect upon my musical adorations. There’s nothing to me as spiritually connective and infinitely affecting as a powerful female vocal. Having a deep knowledge of women and an appreciation of the “Earth Mama Warrior Love” vibe has, at various moments moved me to feel deep, strong and passionate feelings. I’m definitely not embarrassed to say that in 1998 I attended Lilith Fair, and it is one of my favorite concerts I’ve ever attended. This playlist is a tribute to the women, as well as the songs that have shaped and molded me into the man I am today.

Littlest Things - Lily Allen
You Know I’m No Good - Amy Winehouse
Poor Georgie - MC Lyte
Tom’s Diner - Suzanne Vega feat. DNA
Water - Lauryn Hill
Les Fleur - Minnie Ripperton
Fuel - Ani DiFranco
Adia - Sarah McLachlan
Come to My Window - Melissa Etheridge
The Rose - Bette Midler
True Colors - Cyndi Lauper
I Could Fall in Love - Selena
Ball and Chain - Janis Joplin
What’s Up? - 4 Non Blondes
Push and Pull - Nikka Costa
Today - Jefferson Airplane
Peace Be Still - The Emotions
Je T’Aime Moi Non Plus - Serge Gainsbourg & Jane Birkin
Near The Black Forest - Vanessa Daou
Heart of Glass - Blondie
Don’t Leave Me This Way - Thelma Houston
Lay All Your Love On Me - ABBA
Hung Up - Madonna
Never Can Say Goodbye - Gloria Gaynor
At Last - Etta James