Jon Batiste has opened up about the process behind his latest masterpiece, World Music Radio, the follow-up to his acclaimed Album of the Year, We Are.
The Grammy-winning artiste made this known in a recent interview.
Faced with the challenge of living up to his previous success, Batiste delved deep into his creative process and his unconscious mind to create an album that takes listeners on an emotional journey.
World Music Radio is a rare record that traverses the full spectrum of human emotions. Rather than highlighting individual tracks, Batiste emphasises the importance of experiencing the album as a whole. He invites listeners to set aside an hour to be moved by its multifaceted themes, from moments of tears to moments of dancing.
In a conversation with interviewer Sage Bava, Batiste shared insights into his creative process and the influences that shaped his latest album. He revealed that he draws inspiration from various artists and records that have taken listeners on transformative journeys. Mentioning albums like Moby’s Everything Is Wrong and Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon, Batiste emphasized the importance of crafting an album that flows seamlessly from start to finish.
Batiste also discussed his unique approach to creating a musical narrative. He shared how he crafts emotional palettes for each song, setting the stage for the next movement. By using sonic elements and orchestrations, he weaves together different influences and genres, resulting in a cohesive and emotionally resonant experience for the listener.
One track that particularly touched listeners was “Butterfly,” which Batiste described as a stream-of-consciousness experience. He explained how he taps into a state of being a conduit, allowing the music to flow through him without conscious control. Batiste’s vulnerability shines through as he describes the emotional process behind creating the music, particularly with moments like the line “Dang, it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.
The conversation also delved into Batiste’s vision for his interstellar character, Billy Bob, who represents a force working to purify the airwaves in a time of division and misinformation. Batiste explained that Billy Bob’s journey is an exploration of mythology and symbolism that adds layers to the album’s narrative.
Batiste’s connection to music goes beyond the sonic realm. He reminisced about childhood car rides with his mother, whose eclectic taste in music and unique interpretations left a lasting impact on his musical development. He also shared his perspective on what music means to him: a universal force of oneness that connects people, emotions, and humanity in ways that transcend language and boundaries.
Batiste’s World Music Radio serves as a testament to his growth as an artiste and his ability to tap into the deep well of creativity within. The album’s emotional depth, narrative complexity, and connection to universal themes make it a standout piece of art that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
