As Willow Smith puts together the deluxe version of her album Empathogen, she’s part of a movement that will help set the standard for how the music landscape changes—and what will describe success in a place where both definition and compromise are fluid. Recently, Willow said she thinks “musicianship is going to become the next clout,” effectively tossing out social media-driven metrics of popularity for genuine musical talent and artistry.
Just as, arguably, the character of the music industry changes dramatically around the time of Comments from Willow, so does its means of measurement: social media presence and online followers are now the sine qua non by which an artist’s success needs to be measured; however, as this seems a more well-informed model, Willow promises that the emphasis will fall on musicianship as listeners become ever more discerning. This is a reflection of herself as an artist, as she tries to say something about their individuality and creativity through music.
The deluxe version of Empathogen from Willow testifies to the depth of her commitment to her craft. The album was composed to well critical acclaim, with themes drawing on the healing of emotion and the process of self-discovery and connection. To me, that acoustic/digital addition features sounds of alternative, R&B, and bits of experimentation that Willow has sort of shown about in her growing as a musician and commitment to experimenting. I am glad that it seems she is going to take more art out, exposing the fan even more to that amazing album.
This has been done through a process of experimentation by different genres and styles. Her previous work, such as Whip My Hair and her collaboration with her brother Jaden as well as rapper Tyler, the Creator, really showcase the artist’s scope and development in the art process. With Empathogen, she moves to a deeper introspective level, which calls in listeners in an emotional journey toward healing.
Speaking about the importance of live performances and personal links between musicians and audiences, Willow feels that when talking about the future of musicianship, there started to be a slow recognition and appreciation of the importance of live. There is a challenge in the woes of digital consumption thrown to the music industry that Willow can envision and so see a resurgence and return to roots for live music as core to the artistic experience. As Willow puts it, “To me, an artist’s availing herself/himself to reach out to fans in real-time and showing real talent will make all the difference between artists in a sea full of untalented folks.
“What Willow Smith observes will thus not only be relevant to her experience but also to the overall situation of the industry.”. For in artists’ bids to reach out to their markets, one thing that will catalyse success or failure in this new-fangled world of music is musicianship and authenticity. Finally, the premium version of *Empathogen* hits the stores, promising Willow is on the right trajectory to put on display her artistry in maturity while somehow branding the issue of true artistry in an era normally characterised by trends and popular fleeting moments.
For just as the people wait to hear the special version that Willow Smith speaks to in this vision of the future, so artists and listeners alike will be inspired by the deep beauty of musicianship and lead a cultural shift toward creativity above all else.
