On Being with Krista Tippett

Rick Rubin — Magic, Everyday Mystery, and Getting Creative

513 snips
Mar 16, 2023
Rick Rubin, a legendary music producer and author of "The Creative Act: A Way of Being," shares his unique insights on creativity as an intrinsic part of life. He delves into the everyday mystery that surrounds creative expression, emphasizing its natural presence in all activities, from arranging furniture to music. With a soothing presence, he draws intriguing parallels between pro wrestling and storytelling, while advocating for vulnerability and experimentation. Discover how embracing uncertainty enhances creativity and transforms the mundane into the extraordinary.
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ANECDOTE

Rick Rubin's Early Life and Def Jam

  • Rick Rubin grew up in Long Beach, New York, an hour outside Manhattan, allowing access to city culture while maintaining a small-town upbringing.
  • He started Def Jam in college, initially making recordings for his punk rock band before venturing into hip-hop.
INSIGHT

Capturing the Essence of Hip-Hop

  • Rick Rubin's early hip-hop recordings aimed to capture the raw energy of nightclubs, unlike the polished, traditional dance music of the time.
  • His approach was driven by a fan's perspective, seeking to document and share the authentic hip-hop experience.
INSIGHT

Writing 'The Creative Act'

  • Rick Rubin's first book, "The Creative Act", was a seven to eight-year journey of self-discovery through noticing and capturing fleeting insights.
  • The process mirrors his studio work, where recording everything allows for capturing unexpected moments of creativity.
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