Meshell Ndegeocello: We Insist, Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite

Although Meshell Ndegeocello scored a few hits early in her career, the bassist, singer, and songwriter later opted to concentrate on more challenging material by exploring the politics of race and sex, among other topics. From her 1993 Maverick label debut through her current releases, she has built a discography of recordings that defy classification, utilizing progressive mixtures of jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and rock. Initially held in regard primarily for her bass playing and bold lyrics, her songwriting, which often examine dark interpersonal issues, is just as exceptional and illuminating.