ReThinking Jon Batiste on the art of pushing your limits
May 10, 2022
Jon Batiste, a Grammy and Oscar-winning musician and bandleader for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, shares his journey through creativity and recognition. He discusses the emotional highs and lows of being a celebrated artist and the importance of mentorship. Batiste also emphasizes pushing personal limits and how art can inspire social change. He reflects on the power of presence in musical creation, the influence of video games on his work, and the deep themes of grief in his upcoming project, 'American Symphony'.
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Unexpected Grammy Wins
- Jon Batiste was surprised and humbled by his eleven Grammy nominations, initially expecting only two.
- The nominations spanned multiple genres, culminating in a historic Album of the Year win for an album created in his dressing room.
Letting Go of the Album
- Jon Batiste believes that once an album is released, it belongs to the listeners and their experiences.
- He detaches himself to avoid hindering his artistic growth and embrace the communal aspect of music.
New Orleans Roots
- Growing up in New Orleans, Jon Batiste was immersed in a rich musical culture influenced by his family's history and the city's diverse traditions.
- His mother, although not a musician, instilled in him a drive for learning and perseverance through various activities.