Born in Harlem on Aug 2, 1924, Baldwin fearlessly and deftly wrote about American society and culture, especially as it related to race. His novels, plays, poetry and essays inspired readers to reflect on their morals and beliefs and connect with their humanity.

This image of Baldwin was created by artist Rebecca Meek and featured in Meshell Ndegeocello’s Chapter and Verse: The Gospel of James Baldwin, an interactive art and literary experience. Presented by CAP UCLA in 2020, this virtual event served as a celebration and reflection of Baldwin’s ideas and legacy through music, meditations, and visual imagery.

We are thrilled to welcome back Ndegeocello with her work No More Water / The Fire Next Time; The Gospel of James Baldwin. Inspired by the way Baldwin empowered others through the written word, Ndegeocello uses music as her vehicle to engage others in the challenge and promise of Baldwin’s powerful body of work.

We hope you take a moment to explore Baldwin’s work today and join us on April 13 for No More Water / The Fire Next Time; The Gospel of James Baldwin at The Theatre at Ace Hotel.