National-touring spoken word artist Truth B. Told returns home to Louisville for an album release on Friday, November 11 at Jazzy Blu Cafe, which is in the basement of the Glassworks building.
The event is hosted by 30Something Entertainment, who is known for their classy and energetic poetry events with enforced dress codes. Truth B. Told is a hometown favorite with the events that mix jazz and slam poetry. The musical and literary talent is always impressive, the vibe supportive and positive, and the seating limited. More than anything, these events are awesome for the amount of SOUL encompassing them.
Truth began really pursuing his poetry seriously at small coffee shops in Louisville but quickly began to branch out. He has been touring through many cities including Atlanta, Detroit, Phoenix, Chicago, and Columbus performing at black-tie events, night clubs, coffee shops, rock concert halls, and churches. His hard work has paid off, landing him gigs opening for musical acts like Mint Condition and Jazmine Sullivan in addition to being given the 2010 National Poetry Award. After also winning multiple poetry slams, Truth was chosen by KFC to perform his poem "Destiny" in commercials airing throughout Black History month. His fan base is expected to swell this year after being a featured performer on the BET Black College Tour. In the midst of all of these achievements, he has recorded five albums in the last two years. This fifth album is titled Commonly Truthful and has 10 tracks of Truth's spoken word over music by the artist known as Common.
"I have a lot of respect for Common," said Truth, "and also wanted to use something like this to broaden my fan base by using familiar music that has lyrics that can stand on their own as well."
The album was recorded in Chicago over a span of just two days. Truth said that he found it interesting that he got to record it in Common's hometown. After this release, Truth said that he is done with recording until 2013, when he plans to record an album called Quality Control. In the meantime, he is going to focus on some other writing and hopes to be able to start a literacy program that allows poets to go into schools and encourage young minds.
Although the event costs $10 to attend, there is no set price for this album. It is available for whatever people can afford to donate. The doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show starts at 9:30. There is a 50% discount on entry for active duty military in honor of Veterans Day (Military I.D. required).
"I'm very excited to be performing back in Louisville," he said. "We're anticipating a large audience and I promise not to disappoint."
Dress Code according to 30something Entertainment:
Your sexiest, chic, intelligent & most stylish attire is requested, but proper dress is REQUIRED! No hats, no work boots, no t-shirts, no sweat shirts, no overly baggy clothing!!
Truth B. Told featured in a KFC commercial:
Truth B. Told put on the spot and performing at an event: