Kiese Laymon

The Rise and Fall of Black Swan: Episode One from The Vanishing of Harry Pace, a six-part series created by Jad Abumrad and Shima Oliaee.  Harry Pace founded Black Swan Records exactly 100 years ago. Pace launched the career of Ethel Waters, inadvertently invented the term rock n roll, played an important role in W.C. Handy becoming "Father of the Blues," inspired Ebony and Jet magazines, and helped desegregate the South Side of Chicago in an epic Supreme Court battle. Then, he disappeared.  The Vanishing of Harry Pace is a series about the phenomenal but forgotten man who changed the American music scene. It's a story about betrayal, family, hidden identities, and a time like no other. This series was produced in collaboration with author Kiese Laymon, scholar Imani Perry, screenwriter Cord Jefferson, and WQXR’s Terrance McKnight. Jami Floyd is our consulting producer; our fact checker is Natalie Meade. Peter Pace lent his voice for our readings. Based on the book Black Swan Blues: the Hard Rise and Brutal Fall of America’s First Black Owned Record Label by Paul Slade. The series features interviews with Pace's descendants and over forty musicians, historians, writers, and musicologists, all of whom grapple with Pace’s enduring legacy.

Kiese Laymon, a celebrated writer and MacArthur genius, discusses his latest children's book, *City Summer, Country Summer*, highlighting the transformative power of summer experiences for Black boys. He shares his passion for portraying emotional tenderness and growth. Sascha Alper introduces her debut book, *The Littlest Drop*, inspired by Quechua folklore and illustrated by Brian Pinkney, who carries on his late father's legacy. Together, they explore themes of resilience, climate awareness, and the importance of fostering a safe environment for children through literature.

Constance Bailey, an accomplished editor and scholar of African American literature, chats with Kiese Laymon, a celebrated author from Mississippi. They dive into the fascinating process of compiling 'Conversations with Kiese Laymon,' exploring how regional identity influences his writing. Laymon shares insights about his creative energy and changing narratives, while Bailey reveals the challenges of preserving the authenticity of his voice through transcription. Their dialogue showcases Laymon's humility and his profound impact on contemporary literature.

In this engaging discussion, Constance Bailey, an Assistant Professor and editor of "Conversations with Kiese Laymon," sits down with acclaimed author Kiese Laymon. They delve into how Bailey selected interviews for the book, highlighting Laymon's unique voice and experiences as a Mississippian. Laymon shares insights on his writing process, his reflections on Black masculinity, and engaging with literary giants. Together, they explore the dynamics of literary recognition and the importance of capturing authenticity in his storytelling.

Kiese Laymon, a celebrated novelist acclaimed for his memoir "Heavy," dives deep into the intricate challenges of retelling personal and cultural narratives. He discusses reclaiming the rights to his works, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in addressing complex societal themes like race. Laymon reflects on the struggles Black writers face, including the pressure from mostly white audiences and the impact of systemic racism on storytelling. The conversation also touches on the need for diverse voices in literature and the healing power of revision.