Last November, OutKast rapper André 3000 surprised fans with the release of “New Blue Sun,” an album where he explores the flute and other instruments.
In a recent interview on LeBron James and Maverick Carter’s The Shop podcast, André 3000, whose real name is André Benjamin, emphasized that he didn’t have a specific goal with his new musical direction.
“I love jazz music. I don’t want people to think that I’m trying to be a jazz musician. I don’t take myself that seriously,” he explained. “I see myself more as a sonic displayist. Honestly, I don’t know what notes I’m playing. I’m not pretending to understand it completely. Not knowing what I’m doing is part of the art.”
“New Blue Sun” marks André’s return to music after a 17-year hiatus.
The musician also mentioned his desire to challenge the “elitist” nature of the jazz scene.
“Jazz is a studied music, so I try to humanize it. Even with the album title, I wanted to poke fun and enjoy the process,” the 49-year-old added.
