Making her TV debut for BET after her debut poem, ‘Pretty For A Darkskin’ was released in 2017, Princess Latifah has made her mark as a spoken word artist to watch out for. Although her talents have been with her from a young age, the artist and mother of two has found a new perspective on what it’s like to create and to be a creative.
As many poets do, Latifah has always found writing a therapeutic outlet. What started as a personal hobby eventually turned into a practice where she enjoyed writing for the world.
When I needed a plaster, there was poetry. Call it poetual healing.
Princess Latifah
Although she still mostly writes for herself, Latifah explores different layers of life when it comes to her work. She writes to study the inner realms of her being which allows her to maintain and sustain her sense of freedom. Her writings touch upon themes such as feminism, empowerment, and the many controversies that plague todays society.
When it comes to being a mother, Latifah shared that it hasn’t come without its challenges but it hasn’t stopped her from being who she’s always been. Performing has always been engrained in her personality and becoming a mother has added a new element of joy to the process.
Becoming a mother added new feathers to my wings. I gained more inspiration, more passion, more love, and more perspective.
Princess Latifah
A helpful note that Latifah shared for those who are both mothers and performers is to not juggle, just be.
Don’t force it or fight it. Creativity is actually a spiritual thing. We ourselves are a creation, and not only do we birth babies, we birth words and ideas too. Neither of these can be rushed. Creation is sacred.
Princess Latifah
Princess Latifah was nominated for Best Spoken Word Newcomer at our Wordplay Awards earlier this Summer for her Nicola Adams poem commissioned by BT Sport after her first ever piece ‘Pretty For A Darkskin’ went viral. These were extremely memorable moments for the poet which set her on the creative journey she’s on today.
My headline set for Mind Over Matter was one to remember because I was heavily pregnant. I remember it all though. It’s all special, even being interviewed for Wordplay & Flow.
Princess Latifah
As the year draws to a close and a new one approaches we explored what Princess Latifah has in the works moving forward. She will be releasing her debut single; a musical spoken word piece that she wrote and recorded when she was pregnant with her daughter.
It gives me all the feels. Powerful poetry, soft soulful vocals, and beautiful music. It’s the loveliest combination.
Princess Latifah
Without giving too much away, Latifah shared that the new track will be released in November followed by visuals she can’t wait for all to see. The track will be part of an EP released in 2024 and we have no doubt that it will be a hit among her audience and beyond. Until then, you will surely want to catch this powerhouse headlining a stage near you sooner rather than later.
Watch ‘Pretty For A Darkskin’ here.
Creative Director & Writer: Tannika Taylor @tanniktaylor
Photographer: Seun Sontan @seunsontana
Cover Design: Simplexity Creative Counsel @simplexitycc
Wordplay & Flow 
Princess Latifah’s poetry is powerful and inspiring. Congrats on your TV debut!