The Book of Baraka

“When I become mayor, we become mayor.” 

Ras Baraka’s famous words speak to exactly who he is as a leader - a fiercely loyal member of his community. In this innovative and ground-breaking Audible Original, hear how Baraka - the mayor of Newark, New Jersey - grew from spoken-word artist to school principal to successful politician. Mixing prose and poetry, musical interludes and powerful soliloquies, Ras explores his life in-depth, including stories about his father, poet Amiri Baraka, and his personal encounters with jazz singer Nina Simone and hip-hop superstar Lauryn Hill - who famously featured him on her debut album. This is the story of how one man found his voice - and how each of us can find our own calling.

Baraka’s story begins at home in Newark. He was raised in a house of art and politics, passion and provocation. His father was one of the most influential and controversial poets of the 1970s and filled his home with ardent activists, lively debates, and conversations unlike any on his block - a powerful combination that influences him to this day. 

Baraka’s story is a deeply personal history that reflects a generation and a movement, vividly capturing a tumultuous period of political and social struggle and ultimately, boundless hope and renewal. The tale is co-authored by acclaimed writer Jelani Cobb, a staff writer at The New Yorker and a professor at Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism. Experience this exclusive, first-of-its kind telling of Baraka's journey from poet to principal to peacemaker, through his own powerful, inspiring words.

Special thanks for the use of "Newark: The Slow Road Back"

Written and Produced by Sandra King

1987.

Author: Ras Baraka

Author: Jelani Cobb

Associate Producer: Rachel Pilgrim

Associate Producer: Aja Simpson

Cast: Ras Baraka, Jelani Cobb

Composer: Stefon Harris

Editor: Julie Piñero

Executive Producer: Christopher John Farley

Executive Producer: Julie Piñero

Executive Producer: The New Jersey Performing Arts Center

Sound Design, Mix & Master: Maxwell Smith

Acquisition and Development: Louise Quayle

VP of Audible Studios: Mike Charzuk

Editor-in-Chief, Audible Original Publishing: David Blum