Bert Malcom, an indie-rock musician and poet residing in the Black Hills, shares his compelling journey of self-discovery through art. His story transcends mere artistic expression; it is a narrative about reconnecting with family and finding one's place in the world. With a guitar as his constant companion, Malcom recounts how he navigated life’s challenges, from homelessness to reuniting with estranged siblings. Through spoken word poetry and music, he has transformed personal experiences into powerful performances that resonate deeply with audiences. This profile explores his early inspirations, the pivotal role of poetry competitions, and the evolution of his musical style while highlighting the significance of community and culture in nurturing creative talent.
Malcom’s artistic odyssey began during his teenage years when he joined a program called Louder Than a Bomb, which focused on spoken word poetry. Participating in this initiative ignited a passion for storytelling through verse. At 17, after moving to South Dakota in search of his biological family, he faced significant hardships, including homelessness. Despite these obstacles, he found solace in playing guitar in Art Alley, a vibrant hub for local artists. Over time, Malcom developed over 60 original songs, each reflecting his unique perspective and emotional depth.
The theme of family runs deeply throughout Malcom’s life and work. Upon arriving in South Dakota, he embarked on a quest to locate his siblings. After discovering them scattered across different states—one incarcerated, another in a group home—he reunited them, fostering connections that had been severed for years. Yet, his journey did not end there. Seeking further experiences, Malcom traveled extensively via hitchhiking, carrying only his guitar. Whether performing on bustling city streets or quieter corners, his music became both a means of survival and a bridge connecting him with diverse communities.
Malcom attributes much of his success to the lessons learned from Louder Than a Bomb, where he discovered the importance of balancing lyrical content with delivery. This philosophy carries over into his musical compositions, emphasizing authenticity and meaningful expression. Interestingly, despite crafting numerous songs, Malcom relies solely on memory rather than writing anything down. He believes that some of his most valuable creations remain unrecorded, existing only in fleeting moments shared with fellow musicians.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Malcom performs spoken word poetry that addresses pressing social issues. One such piece, titled “Take a Picture,” critiques systemic injustices faced by Native Americans, challenging stereotypes and advocating for cultural preservation. Such performances underscore his commitment to using art as a tool for advocacy and empowerment.
Beyond individual achievements, Malcom advocates for strengthening artistic communities. He laments the lack of resources available to support emerging talents in South Dakota, believing that greater investment could significantly expand the region’s creative potential. By encouraging collaboration and providing guidance, he envisions a thriving arts scene capable of showcasing underappreciated voices.
As Bert Malcom prepares to rebrand his musical identity, fans are encouraged to capture his current releases before they disappear from digital platforms. These works represent raw drafts recorded directly on his phone, offering listeners a glimpse into the artist’s evolving craft. Through perseverance and creativity, Malcom continues to inspire others, proving that even amidst adversity, one can find purpose and belonging through art.