Exploring the Creative Process of Song Building

The chapter dives into the journey of creating a song from initial observation to collaboration, recording vocals with a unique sound, and structuring the song for a cohesive result. It highlights significant recording sessions with Kirk Franklin and a choir, along with the fearless approach of the Korean supergroup, Esper, in taking harmonic risks.

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In this episode, John sits down with singer and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier, delving into the creative process behind his album ‘Djesse Vol. 4,’ the concluding instalment in his four-part ‘Djesse’ album series.

Jacob first shot to fame in 2013 when videos of his complex vocal arrangements went viral on YouTube. Three years later, he released his debut album ‘In My Room’, written and recorded entirely from his family home. In 2018, Jacob set to work on Djesse, a four-volume, 50-song, album series featuring collaborations with artists around the world, which to date has earned him 6 Grammy nominations.

Throughout the conversation, Jacob shares his original demos and discusses his approach to fusing such a plethora of musical genres, from rap and gospel, to dance and Kpop. He also discusses the collaborations that shaped the album, with artists including Chris Martin, Lindsay Loomis, and Willow Smith, as well as his audiences from live shows around the world.

Tracks discussed: Over You, 100,000 Voices, Cinnamon Crush

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Listen to ‘Djesse Vol. 4’ here .

Hajanga Records, Interscope Records/Decca, Universal Music Operations Limited

Intro Music - Sunshine Buddy, Laurel Collective

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Neumann U87 Customised by Klaus Heyne

Sony MX4000 Headphones

Native Instruments

Taylor 5 String Guitar (custom)

Strandberg Guitars Electric 5 String

Mandocello

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TAPE NOTES TEAM

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