In a candid conversation, the genre-defying musician Thundercat, otherwise known as Stephen Bruner, reflects on his eclectic career and the emotional landscape of his new album, *Distracted*. As he prepares for his latest release, Thundercat opens up about grappling with grief, the influence of his musical upbringing, and the process of choosing happiness amid the chaos of life.
An Unexpected Encounter with Snoop Dogg
It was a seemingly mundane Thursday afternoon in London when Thundercat shared a story that epitomises his unique approach to music. During his early days as a session bassist, he found himself performing with Snoop Dogg, attempting to introduce the rapper to the avant-garde sounds of Frank Zappa. “I wasn’t Thundercat then; I was just Stephen Bruner, trying to make a name for myself,” he reminisces.
Bruner recalls a particular moment when he launched into an intricate bass solo, only to be met with Snoop’s bemused comment: “Ain’t nobody told you to play all that.” In a bid to broaden Snoop’s musical horizons, he played Zappa’s “St. Alfonzo’s Pancake Breakfast,” leaving the rapper both confused and amused. “I think I did a cartwheel after that,” he laughs. “I played Snoop Dogg St. Alfonzo’s Breakfast; my job is done here.”
This anecdote serves as a microcosm of Thundercat’s career, which spans genres from funk to thrash metal. He’s collaborated with names as varied as Ariana Grande and Herbie Hancock, illustrating his adaptability and diverse tastes.
The Eclectic Nature of Thundercat
Bruner’s eclectic musical odyssey is matched only by his distinctive personal style. On this particular day, he sports an eye-catching ensemble, from voluminous corduroy trousers to trainers embellished with metallic skeletons. His vibrant dreadlocks are held back with oversized silver grips, featuring snarling tiger motifs—a fitting reflection of his larger-than-life persona.
His musical roots run deep, shaped by parents immersed in the industry; his father was a drummer with the Temptations. Growing up, he was equally passionate about Slipknot as he was about jazz legends. “Categorising music is just a marketing tool,” he asserts, a philosophy that informs his work. His musical journey has seen him blend funk, jazz-fusion, hip-hop, and beyond, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.
Navigating Personal Struggles Through Music
As he gears up for the release of *Distracted*, Thundercat reveals that the album is deeply personal, reflecting his introspection following the loss of close friends, including rapper Mac Miller. He describes the process of creating his previous album, *It Is What It Is*, as fraught with emotional turmoil, compounded by the isolation of the pandemic: “I’ve heard putting out an album being compared to postpartum depression… there’s this weird feeling of loneliness,” he explains.
Bruner’s latest project acts as a diary of sorts, capturing his journey through grief, self-sabotage, and the complexities of mental health. He candidly admits that his erratic behaviours might stem from untreated ADHD, a condition he believes is exacerbated by today’s fast-paced digital environment. Despite the heaviness of these themes, he insists that *Distracted* embodies his efforts to “choose happy.”
A Return to Joyful Collaboration
The album also features a posthumous collaboration with Miller on the track “She Knows Too Much,” a song that evokes memories of their time together. “It was the funniest shit ever,” Bruner recalls, describing their creative chemistry as akin to the Rat Pack. The fun and camaraderie they shared shine through in the music, reminding listeners of the joy amidst the sorrow.
Bruner’s anticipation for *Distracted* is palpable. He jokes about competing with contemporary artists like Cardi B, saying, “I got to get myself a fatter ass, I got to get a BBL,” showcasing his playful side even as he navigates serious themes.
Why it Matters
Thundercat’s journey is a testament to resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. As he fuses personal narratives with musical exploration, his work resonates with many grappling with their own struggles. In a world where mental health is increasingly discussed, Thundercat’s openness about his experiences offers a refreshing perspective, reminding fans that choosing happiness is an ongoing process—one that he navigates with both humour and sincerity. With *Distracted* set to release on 3 April, there’s no doubt that this multi-faceted artist will continue to inspire and innovate, one bassline at a time.
