Following up a Grammy-winning Album of the Year is a challenging task, and Jon Batiste found himself facing that question with his new album, “World Music Radio,” which succeeds his 2021 release, “We Are.” Batiste’s solution was to delve even deeper into his creative process and explore his subconscious mind. The result is a masterpiece that takes listeners on a profound emotional journey. The album is a continuous experience that demands to be enjoyed from start to finish, evoking a range of feelings from tears to dancing.
In a conversation with Sage Bava and Steve Baltin, Batiste shared insights about the album’s creation, his memories of radio, and his perspective on the creative process.
On Performing at Newport:
Batiste shared his excitement about performing at the Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival in consecutive weekends, a unique accomplishment. He mentioned his appreciation for being part of the history of events like the Newport Jazz Festival, where he recalled discovering Duke Ellington’s music during his high school years.
Crafting Emotional Impact:
Discussing specific tracks on the album, Batiste explained the emotional resonance of “Butterfly” and how it resonated with listeners. He revealed that the process of creating such a song involves tapping into deep emotions and being in a vulnerable and meditative state.
Album’s Journey and Influences:
Batiste drew parallels between “World Music Radio” and albums like Moby’s “Everything Is Wrong” and Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon.” He emphasized the importance of creating a journey for listeners through a diverse range of emotions and genres, making the album an immersive experience.
Tapping into Creative Flow:
Batiste described the creative process as a conduit, where he surrenders control and allows the music to flow through him. He explained how this state of being is present in children’s creativity and how he strives to tap into it as an artist. Batiste also expressed gratitude for the lessons he has learned from collaborating with various artists, which have contributed to his evolving process.
Symbolism and Mythology:
Batiste elaborated on the symbolism present in the album, such as the character Billy Bob, who represents the aspiration to purify the airwaves during a time of division and misinformation. He discussed how the album’s mythology was shaped by his reflections on current events and his personal experiences.
The Power of Music:
Batiste concluded by describing music as a universal force that connects people and emotions. He emphasized how music taps into a deep stream of oneness that unites humanity and evokes both commonalities and individual uniqueness.
