In celebration of Black History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to contribute essays that explore themes of identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.
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Today, Sug Daniels, a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Philadelphia, honors her heritage by reflecting on her bond with her grandfather, how his extensive record collection influenced her musical tastes, and how this journey ultimately brought her to Philadelphia and her career in music, as part of Atwood Magazine’s Black History Month series.
Sug Daniels is a Delaware-born, Philadelphia-based artist who weaves storytelling and production into her music, capturing the emotions of her time. Her work is vibrant, heartfelt, and engaging, mirroring her personality. She skillfully blends folk, rock, and soul to craft intimate music that carries messages of truth and positivity.
Her single "When I’m Gone," released with Don Giovanni Records, garnered well-deserved acclaim from local and regional radio stations and venues, paving the way for new opportunities. After touring with The Black Opry, performing at official showcases during SXSW 2022, and supporting artists like Sarah Shook & The Disarmers, Molly Tuttle, Adeem The Artist, and William Elliott Whitmore, Sug Daniels is preparing her debut studio album, set for release in spring 2025.
Her latest single, "Leave a Light On," is available on all platforms!
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by Sug Daniels
It’s a common truth that no one emerges from childhood without scars.
One of my experiences was facing homelessness at the age of 15. Healing from our trauma involves reflecting on those defining moments, acknowledging how the adversities we encountered can mold us and propel us toward growth and deeper insight. As I think back on the darker periods in my life, I realize they played a crucial role in shaping my career and ultimately guiding me toward a dedicated path in music.
I was the middle child in a single-parent household with three kids, and for the first time, we had to separate. I ended up living with my grandmother Rose after she and my grandfather Charlie parted ways. Her home was filled with cherished memories, so I found solace in being in a stable environment away from chaos. With my family absent and school not yet in session, I spent my time exploring every nook of the house until I discovered my grandfather’s vast record collection untouched in the basement.
Encouraged by my grandmother and with abundant time to spare, I immersed myself in those albums—reading the liner notes and experiencing what would become the most significant musical education of my childhood. I don’t read music, can’t chart songs, or identify the key I’m playing in. I simply know what resonates with me. I attribute that understanding to the countless hours spent unwittingly refining a musical palate that would lead me to music creation, to Philadelphia (my grandfather’s birthplace), and eventually to full-time artistry. Here, I share some of the artists, albums, and hidden gems from his collection that have deeply influenced what and how I create. – Sug Daniels
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Billie Holiday – Billie Holiday’s Greatest Hits!
Billie Holiday’s voice struck me as emotional and raw, connecting with my own feelings of longing for love and being misunderstood.
The Beatles – Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
The album intrigued me with its production; the lyrics and composition of ‘Within You Without You’ moved me, while the chaotic ending of ‘A Day in the Life’ inspired me to think beyond formulas and expectations.
Al Green – Have a Good Time
Al Green’s vocal delivery on this album is nearly flawless—his voice feels alive, warm, exhilarating, welcoming, and friendly. I aim to capture those same qualities in my music.
Herbie Hancock – Watermelon Man
The opening track ‘Chameleon Man’ on Herbie Hancock’s Watermelon Man ignited my passion for arrangements and exploring how music can evolve and build.
Carlos Santana – Carlos Santana & Buddy Miles! Live!
This live album showcases the energy of a band where every member shines, not just the lead vocalist. It represents the kind of music I strive to create now, surrounded by the talented friends I wish to collaborate with.
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Sug Daniels, a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Philadelphia, honors her heritage by considering her bond with her grandfather. She shares how his extensive record collection influenced her musical preferences and ultimately guided her to Philadelphia and her path as a musician, as featured in Atwood Magazine's Black History Month series!