Thao

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.