

Jon Batiste | from Design Matters
4 snips Jul 7, 2025
Join Jon Batiste, a Grammy, Emmy, and Oscar-winning musician, as he delves into the transformative power of music and his incredible journey. He shares how his New Orleans upbringing shaped his talent and confidence, turning past shyness into stage presence. Batiste reflects on faith, the significance of inclusivity in music, and his connection to classic figures. He even draws inspiration from 'Forrest Gump,' illustrating resilience in his artistic identity. Don’t miss his insights on pursuing excellence and the evolving legacy of his craft!
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Family Music as Tribal Ritual
- John Batiste's family music gatherings often felt like tribal rituals with many relatives playing together on stage.
- This instilled in him the value of communal music as a form of collective cultural expression.
Childhood Fear of Singing
- John was terrified to sing on stage as a child due to shyness and a traumatic injury during a commercial shoot.
- This fear kept him from singing publicly for about 10 years before returning through piano and composing.
Sports Teach Teamwork Lessons
- Playing point guard on a national AAU basketball team taught John about hustle, teamwork, and managing ego.
- These lessons translated directly into his approach as a bandleader and collaborator.