Esperanza Spalding's Safe Space for Healing

Esperanza Spalding's Safe Space for Healing

In the intimate realm of a Tiny Desk (Home) concert, Esperanza Spalding invites us into her sanctuary of healing through music and song. With selections from her groundbreaking Songwrights Apothecary Lab (S.A.L.) project, Spalding's performance becomes a transformative journey of self-exploration and resilience. Collaborating with a collective of musicians, neuroscientists, psychologists, and music therapists, her workshop dives deep into the human experience and offers a guided exploration of the healing power of music.

Formwela 3: Rediscovering the Blessing of Life's Sun

One of the enchanting creations born out of S.A.L., "Formwela 3" explores the profound connection between our existence and the everlasting blessings of the sun. Through a mesmerizing blend of research, intuition, and collaborative effort, Spalding and her team have crafted a song that invokes a sense of uncorrupted belonging and a deep appreciation for our capacity to create and nurture a harmonious home-planet.

Formwela 4: Articulating Needs and Embracing Infinite Life

With "Formwela 4," Spalding delves into the exploration of our ancestral vessel and the life force that flows within us. This evocative piece channels the oxygenation of our needs, breathing life into our souls and connecting us to the infinite tapestry of existence. It is a reminder of the power we possess to embrace our true selves and honor the richness of our lineage.

Formwela 8: Surrendering to Comfort and Serenity

"Formwela 8" takes us on a journey of tranquility, inviting us to embrace a state of ease and contentment. It is a soundscape that emanates from the comfort of our own being, immersing us in a profound sense of stillness and peace. Through Spalding's masterful performance and the creative contributions of her band, Loving Presences, and the Magical Dance Presence, the music effortlessly transcends boundaries, nourishing both body and soul.

A Performance Beyond Compare: Spalding's Musical Brilliance Unleashed

Spalding's Tiny Desk performance is nothing short of extraordinary. Her virtuosity as a musician shines through, supported by her exceptional band and the captivating presence of Loving Presences and the Magical Dance Presence. The green-screened walls come alive, unveiling a constellation of imagery that harmonizes perfectly with the music's ethereal flow. From start to finish, this mesmerizing performance is an unforgettable experience.

An Ensemble of Musical Brilliance

Spalding's concert is elevated by the collective talents of an exceptional group of musicians:

  • Esperanza Spalding: vocals, bass
  • Vuyo (Vuyolwethu) Sotashe: vocals
  • Safa Ishmel-Muhammad: vocals
  • Corey King: vocals, guitar
  • Matthew Stevens: guitar
  • Leo Genovese: piano, Farfisa, Rhodes
  • Aaron Burnett: saxophone
  • Francisco Mela: drums

Loving Presences and the Magical Dance Presence

Adding another layer of creativity and magic to the performance, Loving Presences and the Magical Dance Presence enhance the music's message and nourish the spirit. Their ethereal voices and captivating movements bring an added depth to the overall experience, elevating it to a realm of pure artistic expression.

A Glimpse into the Future of Musical Healing

Esperanza Spalding's Tiny Desk concert is more than just a captivating performance; it is a testament to the transformative power of music. Through her Songwrights Apothecary Lab (S.A.L.) project, Spalding has not only created beautiful compositions but has also provided a platform for research, collaboration, and the exploration of music's potential for healing.

By merging the realms of neuroscience, psychology, and music therapy, Spalding has opened up new possibilities for the future of music. Her innovative approach challenges traditional boundaries and encourages us to see music as a therapeutic tool for personal growth, emotional well-being, and collective healing. The S.A.L. project serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the profound impact music can have on our lives.

As we delve deeper into the intricate connections between music, the mind, and the human experience, projects like S.A.L. will undoubtedly pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries and transformative interventions. Spalding's fearless exploration and her ability to translate her findings into evocative compositions have set a new standard in the realm of music therapy and creative expression.


Esperanza Spalding's Tiny Desk concert is a mesmerizing and soul-stirring experience. It invites us to enter a safe space for healing, where music becomes the language of transformation and self-discovery. The enchanting Formwelas crafted through the S.A.L. project touch our hearts and souls, reminding us of our interconnectedness with the universe and the immense potential we hold within ourselves.

Spalding's extraordinary talent, supported by an exceptional ensemble of musicians and creative visionaries, takes us on an emotional voyage that transcends the boundaries of time and space. It is a testament to the power of collaborative artistry and the profound impact music can have on our lives.

As we emerge from this Tiny Desk concert, we carry with us a renewed appreciation for the healing power of music and a glimpse into the limitless possibilities it holds. Esperanza Spalding has ignited a spark, lighting the way for the future of telcos and the transformative role they can play in our well-being. Let us embrace this journey of musical discovery and continue to explore the boundless realms of harmony, connection, and healing through the universal language of music.