Poster Lizzo
Lizzo was the host and musical guest on 'Saturday Night Live' on April 16, 2022.
NBC
Rhapsody in Black

Singer, rapper and flutist Lizzo continues to shatter classical music stereotypes

Rhapsody in Black - Lizzo
DOWNLOAD

Singer, rapper and flutist Lizzo was introduced to music from an early age through church and marching band. Her love that the community marching band gave to her while growing up continually influences her music. Lizzo’s flute, Sasha Flute, is a mainstay in her image now, but she wasn’t always confident about it.

"The flute is the way," Lizzo says. “I was so nervous that people would call me a nerd or think I wasn't cool. But as soon as I showed the world all of me, that's when they started to fall in love with me.”

Musical selections from Lizzo

“Good as Hell”

In the official video for "Good as Hell”, Lizzo leads Southern University’s marching band in a fantastic show. This video pays tribute to her marching band roots, which she has often cited as a major musical influence.

The Legend of Lizzo

Taking a page from Ron Burgundy’s musicianship in the movie Anchorman, Lizzo re-creates the jazz flute scene from the movie to profess her love for the instrument.

Lizzo’s flute & twerk lesson

In Season 2 of 2 Dope Queens, Lizzo teaches the queens how to play flute while twerking at the same time. This move has become a staple in her music videos and performances, as well as a crowd favorite.

Credits

Host: Tesfa Wondemagegnehu

Producer: Dan Nass

Writers: Andrea Blain and Scott Blankenship

Executive Producer: Julie Amacher

Love the music?

Donate by phone
1-800-562-8440

Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.

Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.

YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.

More Ways to Give

Your Donation

$5/month
$10/month
$15/month
$20/month
$

Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

VIEW ALL EPISODES

Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

Composer Jessie Montgomery uses music to connect with the world
5:00
Meet Vernon Neal, the host of 'Rhapsody in Black'
Conductor Kedrick Armstrong looks to the past and the future
5:00
Pamela Z expands the boundaries of classical music
5:00
Grammy-nominated cellist Seth Parker Woods pushes boundaries of classical music
5:00
Stevie Wonder, the influential artist who transformed R&B and funk music

Stevie Wonder, the influential artist who transformed R&B and funk music

Explore the legendary career of Stevie Wonder, the influential artist who transformed R&B and funk music. From his soulful voice to his groundbreaking compositions, learn about his classical music roots, record-breaking hits and his magnum opus. Find out more on the latest episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

5:00
Mary Lou Williams is perfect for concert halls and jazz clubs

Mary Lou Williams is perfect for concert halls and jazz clubs

Mary Lou Williams’ artistic vision and her ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and unique composition are perfect for concert halls and jazz clubs. Find out more on the latest episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

5:00
Alice Coltrane uses music to heal and find peace

Alice Coltrane uses music to heal and find peace

Jazz pianist and harpist Alice Coltrane studied classical and gospel early on. Jazz, on the other hand, helped her develop her own creativity, improvisation and expression. Find out more on the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

5:00
Errollyn Wallen's compositions are out of this world

Errollyn Wallen's compositions are out of this world

Composer Errollyn Wallen has had teachers tell her that classical music is ‘not her sort of music’ and has had to deal with being underestimated her whole life. Now she is one of the United Kingdom’s leading composers. Find out more in the latest episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

5:00
Pianist Michelle Cann inspires next generation as a noted music teacher
5:00
VIEW ALL EPISODES

About Rhapsody in Black

Where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music, with host Vernon Neal.

Subscribe to the podcast:  Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicTuneInRSS Feed

About Rhapsody in Black