Design Better Podcast – Episode: Kamasi Washington: A Jazz Genius on Collaborative Lessons Learned from Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Lauryn Hill, and More Release Date: November 12, 2024
Host: Eli Woolery and Aaron Walter
Guest: Kamasi Washington

Introduction to Kamasi Washington

In this enlightening episode of Design Better, co-hosts Eli Woolery and Aaron Walter sit down with acclaimed jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington. Known for his groundbreaking work in modern jazz and his collaborations with musical giants like Kendrick Lamar and Snoop Dogg, Washington delves into his creative journey, the importance of collaboration, and the lessons he's learned from working with diverse artists.

Musical Family Background

Timestamp: 06:45

Kamasi Washington begins by painting a vivid picture of his musically enriched household. "I had a very, like, artistic household and music was definitely one of the big centerpieces of that," he shares. With a father who is a professional saxophone and flute player and a mother who, alongside playing the flute, is a high school chemistry teacher, Kamasi was surrounded by various forms of artistic expression from an early age. His siblings also pursued creative paths, including painting and design, fostering an environment where creativity thrived without undue pressure.

Early Musical Development and Sibling Influence

Timestamp: 07:36

Kamasi reflects on his early years in music, emphasizing the influence of his older brother, who was considered a prodigy. "He kind of took a lot of that attention, you know, because, you know, when you're coming from a musical family, there can be some expectations and things like that," Kamasi explains. This dynamic allowed him to engage with music purely for the joy it brought, free from the pressures of living up to prodigious standards. "Music was kind of just fun for me while all those peering eyes, like how good are you gonna be when you're five," he adds.

High School Musical Education and Its Impact

Timestamp: 09:16

Kamasi attended the Academy of Music at Alexander Hamilton High School in Los Angeles, an experience that significantly shaped his musical prowess. He describes the school as having "a whole music school within the school," offering diverse ensembles like jazz band, orchestra, wind ensemble, and electronic music. Access to resources such as nine-foot grand Steinway pianos and comprehensive music education fostered his versatility. Kamasi notes, "They were very good about teaching you about like etiquette, being on time, you know, you learn how to read and be professional," highlighting the balanced approach between creative freedom and professional discipline.

Turning Point: Playboy Jazz Festival Experience

Timestamp: 10:47

A pivotal moment in Kamasi's development occurred during his time with the multi-school jazz band. Playing at the Playboy Jazz Festival before an audience of 17,000, Kamasi was unexpectedly given a solo. Reflecting on the experience, he admits, "I really wasn't happy with where I was. I loved music, and in that moment, I didn't like the way I felt." This realization sparked a deep-seated drive for personal growth. "The better you get, the more you want to get better," Kamasi observes, illustrating how this experience transformed his relationship with music from enjoyment to a passionate pursuit of excellence.

The Role of Collaboration and Peers in Growth

Timestamp: 12:02

Collaboration plays a critical role in Kamasi's artistic journey. He discusses how interacting with highly dedicated peers in the multi-school jazz band pushed him to elevate his craft. "You can kind of lie to yourself, like, if you're kind of serious, but you're around a bunch of people that, all right, halfway serious, then you think you're doing good," he explains. Being surrounded by exceptionally committed musicians provided a clear perspective on his own aspirations, motivating him to practice diligently and strive for continual improvement.

Influences and Navigating Growing Up in South Central LA

Timestamp: 13:24

Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, Kamasi acknowledges the potential pitfalls that youth in the area might face, such as being drawn into gang activities. However, his unwavering love for music served as a protective force. Discussing his time touring with Snoop Dogg, Kamasi notes, "music is the love of your life, but it can also break your heart because you end up loving it so much." His dedication to his art not only kept him focused but also provided a meaningful outlet amidst the challenges of his environment. "It gave me a clear perspective on where I was and where I wanted to be," he states, emphasizing music's role in shaping his resilience and direction.

Insights on Creativity and Collaboration

Throughout the conversation, Kamasi Washington imparts valuable insights into the creative process and the essence of collaboration. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in art, stating, "there's something in all of us that wants a connection on that level." His experiences underscore how collaborative environments, whether in school bands or professional settings, can significantly enhance an artist's growth and creative output.

Conclusion

Kamasi Washington's journey, as shared on Design Better, is a testament to the power of a supportive and creatively stimulating environment. From his musical upbringing to pivotal moments of self-realization, Kamasi illustrates how passion, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of excellence can propel an artist to new heights. His story not only inspires aspiring musicians but also offers valuable lessons on fostering creativity and resilience in any collaborative endeavor.

Notable Quotes:

• “I had a very, like, artistic household and music was definitely one of the big centerpieces of that.” – Kamasi Washington [06:45]

• “The better you get, the more you want to get better.” – Kamasi Washington [11:22]

• “There's something in all of us that wants a connection on that level.” – Kamasi Washington [01:00]

• “Music gives me a clear perspective on where I was and where I wanted to be.” – Kamasi Washington [13:24]

Further Listening

To delve deeper into Kamasi Washington's creative process and his collaborative experiences with artists like Kendrick Lamar and Snoop Dogg, subscribe to Design Better at designbetterpodcast.com for full-length episodes and exclusive content.