For these spoken-word artists, poetry and music are two sides of the same coin. When they’re in need of inspiration, they turn to the musicians whose lyrics they consider the most poetic. Here are some of their picks for musical wordsmiths. Crank up the iTunes, light some incense, grab a fresh composition book and get inspired.
Aesop Rock
India.Arie
Erykah Badu
Chet Baker
Mary J. Blige
Common
Eric B
Floetry
Marvin Gaye
Donnie Hathaway
Hieroglyphics
Lauryn Hill
KRS-One
Incubus
Jedi Mind Tricks
Bon Jovi
John Mayer
Jason Mraz
Me’Shell Ndegeocello
Rahsaan Patterson
Bonnie Raitt
Robi Rosa
Jill Scott
Sting
Luther Vandross
Tom Waits
Saul Williams
Stevie Wonder
Wu-Tang Clan
