S.H.E.D. Releases Poetry Project Preview

One of Athens’ most talented and consistent poets, Shedrick S.H.E.D. Barnett, has a fresh set of nine poems accompanied by thoughtful song arrangements. This collection of poems is a preview of the upcoming album A Poet Was Here, with a release date still to be announced. Available for streaming on all major platforms, S.H.E.D.’s poetry always delivers a distinctive and special auditory experience for lovers of verse and music alike. Here’s a breakdown of the available tracks:

“Praise Him (feat. Julia Craft)”: Woven into this worship poem is the message that “no matter how bad the storm gets, just praise your way through.” The backing track consists only of a violin that sets an emotional mood carrying the listener from doubt and defeat to a spark of new hope.

“Don’t Shoot (feat. Farin)”: This reggae-infused beat, assisted by the dancehall artist Farin, carries along an upbeat prayer for unity—unity driven by putting down the guns and prejudice. Farin’s chorus creates a catchy rhythm that draws attention and forces the listener to take a deeper dive into the words carefully written by both artists.

“Let’s Stay Together”: Produced by Sunny James, who sets a sensual mood, S.H.E.D. talks about the relationship between two strong individuals and how joining forces can only make them stronger. “Why do fine when we can do better together?” says the poet.

“The Devil’s Workshop”: The importance of protecting and fortifying the mind against evil, especially in moments of weakness or boredom, is at the forefront of this more sinister-toned track. S.H.E.D. warns against the loner mentality and how a small seed of dark thoughts can grow into increasingly more evil actions.

“Thank God For Poetry (feat. Mista Lee)”: Mista Lee, beat producer and vocalist, sets the tone for another worship-based poem thanking God for the gift of the very medium the artists utilize, as the track title suggests. The track draws a connection between the ecstasy and catharsis of worship and poetry.

“Surviving The Project”: Always striving for a better life and a better way, S.H.E.D provides insight into the influences that formed the “trap” and what it truly means to come from the projects. The governmental, societal and economic triggers that are responsible for breaking down family structures are put on display.

“That’s Why He Walks Alone (feat. Julia Craft)”: Similar to “Praise Him,” Julia Craft joins the track with more emotional violin from Liya Endale. The title refers to a man’s journey in love and relationships, facing trials and choosing to be alone.

“Lovers vs. Survivors (feat. DaniJay)”: The artist explains that “a relationship will never work if you’re involved with someone dating out of survival.” Before diving into this wise advice, the track opens with a bouncy and catchy beat that keeps the tone light in contrast to the stories that inspire the words.

“What You Saying Now (feat. Julia Craft)”: Another allegory guiding the listener through life lessons, this poem tells the story of breaking vicious and negative cycles. The actions of those before us don’t have to dictate our futures.

For past work and more information, visit wordsbybarnett.com. Be sure to follow S.H.E.D. on Spotify and look out for the full project on the way.