Bilal

Bilal

Author: Pushkin Industries July 15, 2025 Duration: 1:22:32

Today, we’re joined by one of the most inventive and electrifying vocalists in modern soul music: Bilal. 

Since the release of his debut album 1st Born Second in 2001, Bilal has defied categorization by design and by circumstance. With a voice that shifts effortlessly from a whisper to a wail, and from jazz to gospel to outer space, he’s carved a singular path through the world of music. Whether lending hooks to Kendrick Lamar or collaborating with Erykah Badu, Bilal has long been your favorite singer’s favorite singer.

Now, he’s back with a brilliant new project: Adjust Brightness. Bold, cinematic, and emotionally raw, it’s his most cohesive work since his debut—a swirling, psychedelic blend of soul, jazz, hip-hop, and feeling. And as if that weren’t enough, Bilal has also just released Live at Glasshaus, an intimate and explosive set that captures the unpredictable energy of his live shows.

Today, Bilal opens up to Justin Richmond about the making of Adjust Brightness, how he prepares for those electrifying live performances, and why chasing musical and spiritual freedom has always been his true north.

You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Bilal songs HERE.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


Imagine a conversation where the only agenda is genuine curiosity about the creative process. That's the space Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond occupies. Hosted by these four distinct voices from the worlds of music production, writing, and journalism, this podcast strips away the standard interview format. Instead, it feels like you're overhearing an insightful, meandering talk between friends who happen to be some of the most fascinating artists alive. The discussions delve into the unglamorous realities of making art-the false starts, the moments of doubt, the sheer stubbornness required to push through. You'll hear legendary musicians and emerging talents alike discuss not just their hits, but the failures and personal stories that truly shaped their sound. It’s less about celebrity and more about the human experience behind the songs we love. Each episode is a deep, unstructured dive into why creators do what they do, offering a rare glimpse into the vulnerability and chaos that fuel great work. Produced by Pushkin Industries, this series connects the dots between music, culture, and the society that inspires it, making it feel like an essential listen for anyone interested in the stories behind the art.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond
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