André 3000, known for pushing boundaries in music and culture, is clearing up misconceptions about his latest work. While New Blue Sun showcases his skills on woodwind instruments, the artist insists it’s not simply a “flute album.”
Beyond the Flute
The eight-track ambient jazz album incorporates a wide array of instruments, including bells, chimes, keyboards, cymbals, piano, drums, sintir, gongs, and even a wind controller. André explains, “The media keeps calling it a flute album, but that’s not a fair representation. It’s so much more. Calling it that diminishes the scope, especially when actual flute albums by artists like Jethro Tull and Paul Horn exist.”
Despite this mislabeling, New Blue Sun has received significant recognition, earning Grammy nominations for Album of the Year, Best Alternative Jazz Album, and Best Instrumental Composition. It’s another milestone in André’s illustrious career, which includes winning Album of the Year in 2004 with Big Boi for OutKast’s Speakerboxxx/The Love Below.
Embracing a New Sound
Reflecting on his evolution, André says this project wasn’t what he envisioned as a solo debut. “I didn’t even consider it a solo album—it’s something completely new. At one point, I debated using a different name, but I wanted to show others in my genre that they don’t have to stay in one lane. This album was about experimentation, using the same creative approach I did with OutKast but in a totally different way.”
His journey into ambient jazz was partially inspired by work on projects like Everything Everywhere All at Once, where his flute recordings were incorporated into the film’s score. Similarly, while filming Showing Up, André played flute on set during breaks, which the director later included in the film’s soundtrack.
He reveals that public interest in his impromptu flute performances, often captured in viral videos, motivated him to create something more structured. “People were filming me in public, so I wanted to present the music in a more thoughtful way.”
Rap Roots and Future Projects
The opening track of New Blue Sun bears the humorous title, I Swear, I Really Wanted to Make a ‘Rap’ Album but This Is Literally the Way the Wind Blew Me This Time. André admits it reflects his reality. “I’d love to make another rap album, but I haven’t felt the inspiration to produce something I’m proud of. I still love rap and respect its evolution, especially the fresh ideas younger artists bring to the table.”
One of the standout tracks, Ninety Three ’Til Infinity and Beyoncé, pays homage to his influences. “The title combines Souls of Mischief’s classic track 93 ’Til Infinity and the famous Toy Story line ‘To infinity and beyond,’ but I thought, why not Beyoncé?” After seeking her and Jay-Z’s approval, he added her name as a nod to pop culture.
André reflects fondly on working with Beyoncé on songs like Party and the Great Gatsby soundtrack. “We’ve always respected each other. It’s like being part of a musical family.”
A Broader Musical Landscape
André appreciates the genre-blurring trends in modern music. “Even during Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, I was blending genres. Now we’re seeing rappers exploring country music and artists like Lil Yachty trying new sounds. It’s a great time for experimentation.”
However, he notes that only two rap-influenced albums—Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill and OutKast’s Speakerboxxx/The Love Below—have won Album of the Year at the Grammys. “It says a lot about how the Academy views rap. Both of those albums included elements beyond traditional rap. It’ll be interesting to see when a purely rap album wins.”
Collaborations and Community
Recently, André contributed a 26-minute track to Transa, a project celebrating the trans community. The invitation came from none other than Sade. “When Sade asks you to do something, you say yes. We’d already been talking about other projects, so when she approached me, I knew I had to be part of it.”
He also fondly recalls working with Aretha Franklin before her passing. “Hearing her sing in the studio was humbling. Just being in her presence was an unforgettable experience.”
Supporting Erykah Badu
André recently attended the CFDA Awards to celebrate Erykah Badu’s Fashion Icon honor. “We joked about how long it took for her to get the recognition, but we’re just glad it’s finally happening. She deserves it.”
Looking Ahead
As André continues to explore new creative territories, New Blue Sun serves as a reminder of his limitless artistry. Whether through rap, jazz, or unexpected collaborations, he remains a pioneer who refuses to be confined by labels.
