HOW TO WRITE THE BLUEPRINT NOBODY ASKED FOR

Here we are again, y’all. Grammy®-Nominated for the second time. Let me tell you—it’s surreal, humbling, and honestly, a little weird.

Being a Spoken Word Artist is like being a rockstar at chess.

People cheer, cry, and vibe with you when you're on stage, and then you go home to do the dishes like, “Did that really happen?”

But this moment? It’s bigger than dishes. It’s about representing Spoken Word as a genre on a global scale. For decades, I’ve advocated for Spoken Word to be seen as more than just a niche art form, to have it stand shoulder-to-shoulder with singers, songwriters, and musicians. To see our work respected, celebrated, and recognized for the genius it is. And now, being nominated for the second year in a row, I know we’re finally being heard.

TICKETS TO THE ATL FYC SHOW!

The Grind, the Gratitude, and the Noise

Let me keep it real: there are days I want to give up. The road is long, the work is heavy, and the noise? Oh, the noise. The comments, the drama, the doubters—it can get to you. But then, without fail, an email or a text will hit my inbox. A fan who says my words got them through a tough time. A friend reminding me of the bigger picture. A moment of clarity that says, Keep going. This is bigger than you.

And so I stay. For the Poets. For the ones who’ve been told this isn’t a real career. For the ones waiting for their voice to be heard.


Why This Grammy® Matters

And because it's about the nine albums I made before this one. It's about the fact that our "music," our poems, have deserved to be here for a long time, and I've never considered myself anything less than a peer. Shout-out to Poet Ansley Burrows for teaching me that early on.

This isn’t just a shiny trophy (although I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want it sitting on my shelf). Winning this Grammy® isn’t just a personal victory—it’s a trajectory shift for the category. It says that Spoken Word belongs here. It’s a nod to the poets who paved the way, to the ones performing now, and to the future artists who are dreaming big.

Last year’s nomination was incredible, but this year feels different. It feels urgent. We’re seeing the doors crack open, and I’m determined to keep them open for as many of us as possible. I can’t walk through every door, but the ones I wedge open with my toe? Oh, we’re all rushing in together.

Oh, and by the way, I’m the first woman to be nominated back-to-back in this category. And I know, I know—the category’s only three years old. But that means I’m setting the blueprint. Call me a pioneer, call me a trendsetter—just make sure to call me Grammy®-nominated.

Why an iPhone Documentary?

I’m thrilled to announce a personal project I’m creating called “From Apache to the Grammy®s. The Queen Sheba Experience. An iPhone Documentary.” Why an iPhone documentary? Because the production of an album, the week-of festivities, and the entire year-long campaigning process for the Grammy®s is an investment into your life—and your bank account.

Share Your Stories

If you’ve got a “How I met Queen Sheba” or “This one time with Queen Sheba” story, I want to hear it! Please upload your video here: [Submit Your Video]

Make sure to:

  • Clearly say and spell your name.

  • Include your email and IG handle.

If we use your story or soundbite, we’ll absolutely reach out and credit you properly.

If you’d like to support my journey, I’d love it. I also love the unexpected sound of Zelle and CashApp! If you want to donate to keep this train moving:

Drop a note so I can give you a shoutout on IG! Every little bit goes toward this dream.

for a list of all my shows www.thequeensheba.live/booking

So, here I am - Reading comments, biting my nails, and sitting on my hands to keep from clapping back at the noise. Because this isn’t about the BS. It’s about the art, the Poets, and the power of words.

And if I win? Know that it’s not just for me—it’s for the ones who have been waiting for this moment, for the ones who will come after, and for the ones still learning how to use their voice. This Grammy® is ours.

The Party: If They Can’t Throw One, I Will

Now, let’s talk about the Atlanta Grammy® Chapter. Due to budget cuts and key staff being out, we’re not getting our usual nominee party this year, which sucks. But instead of sulking, I’m throwing my own party because Spoken Word deserves to celebrate. Nominees from Atlanta, nearby cities, and anyone else who wants to celebrate with us—you’re invited. Grammy® FYC rules mean you need a ticket, but I’ve made sure the link is plastered all over my socials.



for a list of all my shows www.thequeensheba.live/booking

Now, go grab your ticket to the party, upload your stories, and let’s celebrate the art form that’s been changing lives one verse at a time.

For a list of all my upcoming shows:

for a list of all my shows www.thequeensheba.live/booking

www.thequeensheba.live/booking 

Love, Queen Sheba 💞 p.s. Please leave a comment on the blog so I don’t think I’m just talking to myself. The website tells me who’s been 👀🤗

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