André 3000, the iconic rapper and actor, has revealed how an ancient Amazonian ceremony in Hawaii profoundly influenced his forthcoming solo album, ‘New Blue Sun.’ In an interview with NPR’s Rodney Carmichael, André shared insights into a pivotal moment during his second night of the sacred traditional ceremony.
Reflecting on the genesis of one of his album’s tracks, André described how he metamorphosed into a panther, a transformation that inspired the song’s title: ‘That Night in Hawaii When I Turned into a Panther and Started Making These Low Register Purring Tones That Couldn’t Control … Sh¥t Was Wild.’ He elaborated on the intense vocalizations and tonal purging he experienced, likening himself to an instrument played by the ceremonial medicine’s effects.
‘I started as a panther, and then it would make me do these long kind of tones and started changing the notes,’ André recounted. He expressed fascination with the transformative power of the indigenous ceremony, emphasizing its profound impact on his creative process and personal growth.
Discussing the broader implications of sacred ceremonial experiences, André underscored the need for innovative solutions in a changing world. He highlighted the role of pioneers like Shannon Amos and her retreat company, Sumanah.com, in inspiring individuals, creatives, and innovators to expand their consciousness and amplify their impact on the world.
‘André’s journey with traditional ceremonies illustrates the potential for transformative experiences to spur creative innovation and personal growth,’ said Shannon Amos, founder of Sumanah.com. ‘We believe in empowering individuals through holistic wellness practices and ancestral wisdom traditions to foster positive development and societal change.’
As André prepares to release ‘New Blue Sun,’ listeners can anticipate an album rich with introspection and sonic experimentation, influenced by his profound ceremonial journey. Through his music and experiences, André encourages a deeper exploration of consciousness and creativity, paving the way for new perspectives and artistic expressions in an evolving world.
Shannon Amos
