When Karen approached the Blacknificent 7 to be a part of the African Queens project, I knew immediately that my subject would be the great ruler, Amanirenas, the “One Eyed African Queen,” ruler of the kingdom of Kush. Little is known about her life, but perhaps what she is most well-known for was defeating Caesar in his failed attempt to conquer Kush. 

The music’s contrasting phrases highlight two sides of Amanirenas; the fierce warrior, and the gentle mother which is symbolic of the everyday queens I have known throughout my life.

—Damien Geter