The Negro Problem, led by singer-songwriter Stew, received its name to focus attention on the segregation of the music industry, where record executives might like the sound of Stew's music but have "a problem" with his race. Formed in 1995, The Negro Problem is an eclectic and theatrical band combining biting social satire, gritty folk and psychedelic pop elements with influences as diverse as Sly Stone and Jimmy Webb. Stew and collaborator Heidi Rodewald released three critically heralded CDs with The Negro Problem when Stew also struck out on his own as a solo artist and writer, becoming both a Tony and an Obie Award-winner along the way. Their highly acclaimed 2008 Broadway musical, Passing Strange, was adapted into a film of the same name, directed by Spike Lee. The return of Stew & The Negro Problem promises to be a prayer answered for their fans, and to the uninitiated, an introduction to a singular talent who knows no boundaries.
“Stew’s genre-defying rock-pop-funk-punk-cabaret music has earned him critical acclaim and a fervent cult following… He makes 'Afro-baroque' music, which is witty, erudite and uniquely his.” The New York Times "The ultra-rare African-American purveyor of psychedelic pop.” Chicago Sun Times