The Blackberry Poets are an emerging multi-genre band based in Brooklyn, NY, consisting of singer-songwriters Cyril Amanfo, Max Addae, and Bianca Berger.
The trio was originally formed in Oberlin, OH, where the members met while studying at Oberlin College & Conservatory. Their name reflects their commitment to storytelling through music in ways akin to poetry, embracing vulnerability and authenticity. With a unique blend of pop, rock, soul, and hip-hop influences, the Blackberry Poets aim to tell their own stories, as well as stories that aren’t told enough. Inspired by the rawness of poetry, every song is a narrative, a chapter in a compelling story, often exploring themes of Black joy, love, and youth.
Currently, The Blackberry Poets are working towards their debut full-length album set to release in 2024. Be sure to check out their most recent releases, “Wendy” and “The Gift”, on all streaming platforms, and stay tuned for their upcoming album later this year!
Meet the Band
Cyril Amanfo
Max Addae
Bianca Berger
Bianca Berger is a lead vocalist and marketing manager for The Blackberry Poets. Originally from Chicago, her music tastes lie at the intersection of Haitian-American culture and early 2000s Black girl joy. Her vocal disciplines include a cappella, gospel, and R&B.
Bianca recently graduated from Oberlin College, where she received her Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Africana Studies. Outside the group, she is an actress, poet, and Line Producer for the Black Revolutionary Theatre Workshop (BRTW). Bianca is incredibly privileged to make music alongside her bandmates and hopes to foster community and Black joy!
Cyril Amanfo is a lead vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and business manager for The Blackberry Poets. After years of convincing himself that he had no musical talent, he gave in to his love for performing. He found his voice there, immersing himself in guitar, choirs, and other musical ensembles.
Outside of the group, Cyril is an actor, playwright, composer, lyricist, choreographer, and director. He holds a degree from Oberlin College in Neuroscience and Theatre (Highest Honors), and has artistic and creative credits in New York and beyond.
Max Addae is a lead vocalist, vocal arranger, and producer for The Blackberry Poets. Hailing from Bloomfield, NJ, he developed his love for singing in the church around the age of 6, and continued to foster his love for music in high school and college through advanced choral ensembles, musical theatre, and contemporary a cappella.
Outside of the group, he works as a freelance vocal arranger, musician, and creative technologist. He holds degrees in Computer Science and Music Technology from Oberlin College & Conservatory, as well as a Master’s degree from the MIT Media Lab in Media Arts and Sciences.