Musiq Soulchild, one of the most consistent R&B/Soul artists in the last 20 years, talks about his experiences in the music industry, the impact of Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' on street vendors, exploring new creative territories, miscommunications and frustrations, adjusting to life pre-COVID, and the challenges of finding an authentic name.
Musiq Soulchild faced challenges in the music industry but remained determined and resilient in his pursuit of success.
Moving to Atlanta and embracing a nomadic lifestyle provided Musiq Soulchild with opportunities and inspiration within the music scene.
Working with different musicians and singers helped Musiq Soulchild realize his natural talent for singing, shaping his musical style and unique sound.
Musiq Soulchild reflects on the importance of authenticity and represents himself as an artist, prioritizing true expression over chart success.
Miscommunication and lack of understanding can strain relationships within the music industry, highlighting the need for open and honest communication for successful collaborations.
Deep dives
Finding Music and Identity
During a period of homelessness and instability, the speaker discovered his talent for singing and began navigating the music industry. He formed connections with musicians, participated in open mics, and worked at Touch of Jazz Studios. Despite feeling inadequate and lacking guidance, the speaker remained inspired by the talent around him, including his interactions with artists like Balot and Jill Scott.
Challenges and Growth in the Music Industry
The speaker faced challenges in the music industry, including feeling unsatisfied with the direction of his career and not having the freedom to express himself artistically. He contemplated his decision to leave school and recognized the importance of education in music. The speaker also faced criticism and pushback from labels, but remained determined and resilient in his pursuit of success.
The Journey to Atlanta and Nomadic Living
The speaker made the decision to move to Atlanta based on the connections and opportunities he had there. He embraced a nomadic lifestyle, often finding temporary places to stay and taking Greyhound buses between cities. Despite the challenges, he remained dedicated to his music and found inspiration from artists and collaborations within the Atlanta music scene.
Discovering His Voice and Musical Style
The speaker always had a natural talent for singing, but he didn't fully realize it until working with different musicians and singers. He drew inspiration from jazz clubs, hip-hop soul artists, and his experiences at Tuts of Jazz Studios. This helped shape his musical style and develop his own unique sound. Despite the hardships and uncertainties, the speaker remained resilient and determined to pursue his passion.
The Journey of Music Soulchild
Music Soulchild reflects on his journey as an artist, discussing his early experiences in the music industry and the challenges he faced. He shares how he struggled with his artistic identity and felt disconnected from the music he was creating at times. Despite the success he achieved, he emphasizes that winning and chart success are just perceptions, and that his true focus is on authenticity and representing himself as an artist.
Navigating Relationships and Miscommunication
Music Soulchild explores the importance of communication within the music industry and how it influenced his relationships with fellow artists. He discusses instances where miscommunication and lack of understanding led to misunderstandings and strained relationships. He highlights the need for open and honest communication to avoid conflicts and to ensure that everyone involved is on the same page.
Looking Ahead to Future Projects
Music Soulchild reveals his plans for future projects, expressing his desire to continue exploring his artistic identity and working with various artists. He discusses potential collaborations, including a project with Rapsody and a group effort with Bilal and Jasmine Sullivan. He emphasizes his focus on creating music that is true to himself and his growth as an artist.
Podcast Summary: Reflection and Personal Challenges
In this podcast episode, the speaker reflects on an emotional and psychological space they are currently in. They express the need to deal with their personal struggles privately before being able to be the person others expect them to be. The speaker discusses the impact of unresolved baggage and the challenges they face in unpacking it. They also address the difficulties of establishing personal relationships and the internal struggles they navigate. The speaker highlights the role of their son and their relationship with him as a source of joy amidst their challenges.
Podcast Summary: Musical Journey and Collaborations
In this podcast episode, the speaker shares their musical journey and experiences in the industry. They discuss their early encounters with Touch of Jazz, Jazzy Jeff, and Dilla, highlighting specific collaborations and songs they worked on together. The speaker also mentions their recent and ongoing musical projects, including collaborations with various artists and groups. They emphasize their desire to be authentic and do their own music, expressing gratitude for the opportunities they have had and their artistic growth over the years.
Musiq Soulchild has quietly reigned as one of the most consistent R&B/Soul artists in the last 20 years. He has humbly released numerous platinum and gold albums throughout his career and now it's time for his credit! Listen as Questlove and Team Supreme dive into the complicated life of this Philly born and bred "soulstar". This is not one to miss!
