Special Instructions hosted by Ella Hussle

Special Instructions is an archival project exploring the intersections of music, memory, and preservation. Inspired by an inherited cd collection from her late father, which host, DJ and librarian Ella Hussle then expanded into the art of archiving, the craft of librarianship and collecting books. Special Instructions gives a platform for nostalgia but with a twist. The listening sessions are a combinations of all of these under one umbrella: Sound, memory, and literature. For the next session, join us as we take a closer listen to Erykah Badu's album Live on Head HiFi's vintage Klipsch La Scala speakers.

Released November 18, 1997, Erykah Badu’s Live was a pivotal moment in the queen of neo-soul's early career. Recorded mid-tour, live at the iconic Tramps in New York City while pregnant with her first child; this album served as both a celebration and a deeply personal thank-you gift to the fans who championed her record-breaking debut, Baduizm, giving them a raw intimate, and unfiltered look at Badu's genius on stage.

Live the album captured an intimate, vulnerable, and hypnotic energy, blending jazz, soul, hip-hop, and gospel with effortless flair and improvisational genius. Hits like “Tyrone” and the soul-stirring rendition of “Next Lifetime” delivered unapologetic messages of self-respect, boundaries, and emotional honesty that resonated deeply with women and listeners around the globe.

Let's take a deep dive into the tracks that made this album a masterpiece of live performance and solidified Erykah Badu’s legacy as one of the most transcendent and re-inventive artists of a generation. We welcome you to come, learn more, and listen with others!

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About the organizers:

Ella Hussle is a dynamic DJ, producer, and event curator originally from Las Vegas and now based in Brooklyn. Her musical journey began in 2015, and she's quickly become known for her high-energy sets and sultry, diverse sound. Ella seamlessly blends genres like R&B, UK Street Soul, Funk, Jazz, Disco, and House, creating an eclectic vibe that’s all her own. Beyond her music, she’s built a reputation as a versatile artist who curates community listening sessions, often showcasing her vast CD collection and passion for music in all its forms. Ella is also exploring academia and librarianship, all while nurturing her love for collecting CDs and antiquated books. Her deep affinity for physical media and vintage ephemera enriches her musical identity,  reflecting the eras and influences that shape her sound. @EllaHussle @special.instructions

Head Hi is an organization dedicated to art, architecture, design and sound specializing in publications and cultural programming with an espresso bar located in Fort Greene, Brooklyn by the Navy Yard. We feature a curated selection of publications from around the globe. Working with local and international artists, designers, publishers, and organizations in various fields, Head Hi is a space for exploration and interaction that hosts talks, book launches, exhibitions, music, performances and other events. Head Hi Fi enhances the experience of sound in the space with its vintage Klipsch La Scala speakers. @headhi_ny