Black Inspirations: Ben Harper on Jessy Wilson

For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary Black artists to share some of their influences from the Black music vanguard. The series continues today with a testimonial from Ben Harper.

Veteran singer-songwriter Ben Harper draws on a rich heritage of blues, country, roots, rock, and funk in his own music. But for our Black History Month series, he chose to highlight a contemporary artist, somebody who is making Black history today. Here’s what Harper had to say about Jessy Wilson.

 “I’m sharing music from a Black artist who inspires me – Jessy Wilson. Because her songs are incredible, her live shows are incredible and she’s just a wonderful person.”

Below, listen to Ben Harper’s favorite Jessy Wilson songs, chosen for Black Inspirations on WXPN.