THAO, known for her distinctly evocative songwriting and dynamic,
arresting performance, has continued to evolve artistically and
personally since dropping the moniker “Thao & The Get Down Stay
Down” in 2021. Her latest album, ‘Temple,’ reflects a profound
exploration of freedom and belonging, shaped by her experiences
reconnecting with her cultural roots on her first trip to Vietnam. This
journey is also the subject of her intimate documentary, “Nobody Dies,”
which premiered on PBS to critical acclaim.
Throughout her career, Thao has expanded her reach beyond recording
and touring and glided into the realms of writing, filmmaking, television,
podcasting and theater. She has guest hosted the celebrated podcast
Song Exploder, hosted PBS’s Southern Storytellers series, and scored
numerous film and dance projects, all the while continuing to tour
nationally and internationally.
Thao can currently be seen in the music film Amongst The Disquiet
(which she co-created, starred in, and wrote original music for) as it
shows in contemporary art institutions and events all over the world (ex.
New Orleans Museum of Art, MCA Denver, São Paulo Biennial).
Her 6th studio album will be released in 2026. She is currently at work
writing her debut book for Graywolf Press (2027) and developing a
musical. Balancing personal vulnerability with broader cultural
commentary, Thao remains a prominent voice in the contemporary
music scene and beyond.
