Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Bilal
Jul 15, 2025
Bilal, an inventive and electrifying vocalist known for his work with Kendrick Lamar and Erykah Badu, discusses his latest projects, including 'Adjust Brightness' and 'Live at Glasshaus.' He shares insights into his creative process and the vibrant energy of his live performances. Bilal dives deep into the pursuit of artistic and spiritual freedom, reflecting on key figures and experiences that shaped his musical journey. The conversation touches on the evolution of vocal techniques, the beauty of collaboration, and the cultural inspiration in his music.
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Voice as Instrument and Improvisation
- Bilal treats his voice like an instrument emphasizing improvisation and emotional moments live.
- Performances vary night to night, making attending his shows unpredictable and exciting.
Pre-Show Ritual to Channel Self
- Before shows, Bilal tries to enter a 'void place' to dismiss expectations and ego.
- This mindset helps him channel his higher self for authentic performances on stage.
Live vs Studio Mindsets
- Live performances require blocking out overanalysis to fully feel the moment.
- Studio sessions encourage more analysis to shape music and manage input from others.
