This week on Black Hoodie Alchemy, we're getting deep into the history, practice and application of Voodoo! Firstly, what's the difference between Voodoo, Vodou, Vodun, and Hoodoo aside from the spelling? We'll explain that and all the other African Diasporic Religions associated (like Santeria and Palo Mayombe) all the way up to traditions in good ol' New Orleans, Louisiana!
We also take the time to discuss in some detail the historical events and characters surrounding Voodoo, like the successful Haitian Revolution against Napoleonic France, and prominent New Orleans characters like Queen Marie Laveau and Dr. John Bayou.
As well, we analyze practices associated with Voodoo like the zombie, the doll, spirit possession and animal sacrifice, and their ceremonial drums' crucial influence on modern music today as we know it! And while it might sound a bit spooky to the un-studied eye, it's actually much more wholesome and cathartic and horror cinema would lead you to believe... most of the time!
Voodoo in history and modern day is a complex, de-centralized, and heavily misunderstood web of spiritual traditions that has their roots in what can only be described as the West African Mystery Rites. It's an absolutely fascinating spiritual tradition that deserves a bit more respect in the west, and we here at Black Hoodie Alchemy hold a deep reverence for it.
We sincerely hope we did it justice in our conversation and we hope you dig your listening!
RELATED MATERIAL:
DIVE MANUAL AUDIOBOOK
BHA LINKTREE w books, shorts, and much more
SHOW NOTES:
New Orleans Voodoo Robert Tallant
Leonard Nemoy narrates a Voodoo doc
Voodoo Afterlife considerations
Alex of Natural Born Alchemist talks about taking iboga
This week's featured music! Don't forget to support that black hoodie rap and all your favorite independent artists!
Equal Power - Babylon Warchild
Building Pyramids - Unknown Mizery x Odweeyne
The Gates of Babylon (feat. Profit Pre, KDB, & Laylow) - Babylon Warchild