Song Exploder Jon Batiste - We Are
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Oct 2, 2024 Jon Batiste, a celebrated pianist and songwriter known for his Grammy wins and work on the film Soul, shares insights about his creative journey. He explores the powerful origins of his title track 'We Are,' blending personal ancestry with cultural influences. Batiste emphasizes the themes of hope and unity within the song, celebrating the resilience of the black diaspora. He reflects on the importance of connection and shared experience, inviting listeners to engage deeply with the narratives behind his music.
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Dressing Room Creation
- Jon Batiste started "We Are" in his Ed Sullivan Theater dressing room, a space with rich history.
- The song's initial beat emerged unexpectedly after a break, inspiring a sense of wanting to dance.
Collaborative Lyrics and Vocals
- Autumn Row's melody inspired Batiste's lyrics, "We are the golden ones. We are the chosen ones."
- They created a choir-like vocal effect to evoke a sense of global unity.
Inspiration from Unsung Heroes
- The song's message of empowerment draws from the Black diaspora's resilience.
- It celebrates unsung heroes like Batiste's grandfather, a union president and activist.
