Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Miguel
Sep 30, 2025
Grammy-winning alt-R&B artist Miguel discusses his new album, Caos, blending various musical genres while reflecting on his creative evolution. He shares intriguing details about the controversial artwork for his single "New Martyrs" and his suspension from piercings, emphasizing its meditative purpose. Miguel reveals his preference for collaborating with friends over transactional projects and highlights the intentional chaos that drives his creativity. He also reflects on turning 40, the importance of imperfection in his music, and venturing into his Mexican heritage.
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Art As Political Reflection
- Miguel ties the New Martyrs artwork to watching political systems cannibalize themselves and public anger.
- He uses the imagery to process moral ambiguity and collective disenfranchisement.
Balance Between Politics And Sensuality
- Miguel says human experience includes both activism and sensuality and artists can speak to both.
- He prioritizes making music with friends to preserve play and authentic expression.
Choose Friends Over Transactions
- Work with friends in the studio to preserve play and true collaboration.
- Avoid purely transactional sessions that force one into a foreign promotional machine.