Jazz Pianist
A jazz pianist that is, "Reflecting the musical adventurousness and eclectic artistic brew of his Bay Area roots, Selase has a stunning body of work that encompasses everything from spoken word to acid jazz to New Age." - The Journal of Roots Music: No Depression
"Selase persistently soaks you in the truth of the moment – it’s provocative, thoughtful, and eye-opening, all at once." - Stereo Stickman
Jazz Fusion
The combining of jazz harmony, live instruments and improvisation with rock, funk, blues and R & B music.
"There is a crazy power that emanates from this music. However, the atmosphere is serene, it advances without arms, hatred, or violence." - ANOTHERWHISKY FOR MISTERBUKOWSKI
Spoken Word Poet
"It also echoes the pioneering spoken word poet music of Gil Scott-Heron in its real and vivid poetry. As one can interpret from the title, Selase reflects on the social and political environment of living in America now. If Public Enemy was the CNN of inner cities, Selase is its literary observer." - All About Jazz
Spoken Word Poetry
Spoken word poems is a form of performing art that is based in language and words. Spoken word is an oral art based in literary foundations that focuses on education, eloquence, word play and language gymnastics.
Alternative Hip Hop Artist
Alt Hip Hop that does not conform to conventional forms of Hip Hop but rather using foundational elements like rap in addition to conventional forms of music. Jazz is the original hip hop and alternative hip hop is the contemporary child of jazz. Love music and hate classifications but enjoy conversations surrounding the origins of music you are sure to be pleased with Selase's music.
Acid Jazz
Originating in UK with elements of foundational jazz with funk, rock, soul, and hip-hop. Incorporating the timing and sound of more popular danceable music.
Relaxation Music
Music that is defined by the impact and feeling it produces rather than the instruments or genre.
Jazz Rap
Lyrics based in social, economic and political awareness and style leaning towards poetry while combining the instrumental flavor of jazz.
Jazz Hip Hop
Jazz Hip Hop provides the distinction between language and culture. "Rap" is the language of hip hop; for example lyricists like KRS-One, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole rap to communicate. And Hip Hop is a culture! So Jazz Hip Hop is the combining of the jazz and hip hop cultures.
Praise and Worship Music
The origins of worship and praise music is simply giving honor and praise to God. Prayer music and/or worship songs are about commitment, gratitude, adoration, and giving honor to God. These songs were founded in negro spirituals which were birth out slavery and times of struggle and tremendous opposition. To give thanks for brining us through those times. Some of Selase's music could be categorized in this genre; songs like Fruit, Rock and Wait may fit here.
Protest Songs
Songs that focus on equality, justice, freedom and liberty. Songs that are against subjugation, oppression and inequality. Here is a list of 54 of popular protest songs by some of music most popular artists.
copyright © Rafa Selase Music
The copyright of all videos, poems, music and content belong to Rafa Selase.
Poetry Foundation
For information about the national poetry community, competitions, and resources available please visit the Poetry Foundation.