Thundercat Reflects on Eclectic Career and New Album 'Distracted'
In a candid interview, genre-hopping bass virtuoso Thundercat, born Stephen Bruner, opens up about his multifaceted journey in music, from backing Ariana Grande and Herbie Hancock to his time in Suicidal Tendencies. Ahead of his fifth album, 'Distracted', Bruner shares insights into his polymath mindset, touching on themes of grief, self-discovery, and the bizarre moments that have shaped his career.
A Memorable Encounter with Snoop Dogg
Bruner recounts a humorous yet pivotal moment from his early days as a bass player for hire. While performing in a band backing Snoop Dogg, he attempted to introduce the rapper to Frank Zappa's complex 1974 track, 'St Alfonzo's Pancake Breakfast'. The reaction was immediate and unforgettable. 'He was smoking, and he almost ate his blunt, saying: 'What the hell is going on?'' Bruner chuckles. This incident, which may have led to his dismissal, epitomizes his fearless approach to blending genres and challenging musical norms.
From Sideman to Solo Artist
Transitioning from a multipurpose sideman to a solo artist in the early 2010s felt natural to Bruner, thanks to his impossibly eclectic tastes. His solo albums weave through funk, jazz-fusion, electronic pop, and more, all adorned with extravagant bass solos. He attributes this diversity to his parents, both musicians who believed categorizing music was merely a marketing tool. By his teens, Bruner was equally enamored with Slipknot and jazz legends like Billy Cobham, fostering a unique sound that defies convention.
Grief and Healing in Music
Bruner's music often grapples with personal loss, most notably the death of his close friend, rapper Mac Miller. His 2020 album, 'It Is What It Is', was consumed by grief, released during lockdown to what he describes as 'complete silence'. This period led him to quit drinking and take up boxing, channeling his emotions into rigorous training. His new album, 'Distracted', serves as a diary of this soul-searching process, with tracks addressing self-sabotage and failed relationships, yet aiming for happiness. 'Choosing happy is a hell of a process,' he admits.
Star Wars and Sci-Fi Influences
An obsessive fan of cartoons and science fiction, Bruner revels in his cameo role in the Star Wars series 'The Book of Boba Fett'. 'I can use that in an argument every time somebody gets too high and mighty: 'Hey, you can't talk to me like that, I was in Star Wars!'' he jokes. This passion for pop culture permeates his work, adding layers of whimsy and depth to his artistic persona.
Looking Ahead with 'Distracted'
'Distracted' features collaborations with artists like A$AP Rocky and Lil Yachty, continuing Bruner's tradition of genre-blending. Despite its eclectic sound, the album delves into poignant themes, including a track with Mac Miller recorded years before his death. Bruner reflects on their friendship with warmth, recalling 'weird, highbrow bullshit and shenanigans'. As he prepares for the album's release, Bruner remains grounded, noting that life, much like his early gigs, requires constant movement: 'Stand still too long, somebody's going to hit you with something.'
