Revisiting: Raphael Saadiq
Oct 23, 2026 · 1h 22m
Summary
Rafael Sadiq discusses his recent collaborations with Beyoncé and Solange, including the unique origin story of "Cranes in the Sky," and reflects on his historic partnership with D’Angelo. He also shares memories of performing with Mick Jagger, working with Earth, Wind & Fire, and the profound influence of Oakland bassist Larry Graham on his musical development.
Topics discussed
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Introduction to Raphael Saadiq's career
Early projects and recording history
Collaborating with a vocalist from Oakland
Discussing vocal talent and 'pipes'
CeeLo Green's performance and vocal control
The House of Music record store inspiration
Funkadelic artwork and Larry Graham's legacy
Oakland musicians and the Hawkins family
Comparing Sly Stone and Larry Graham's records
Hypothetical tour with The Who
Playing with Mick Jagger at the Grammys
The band lineup for recent albums
Raphael's role as a drummer
A dismissive reaction to a new album
Meeting D'Angelo through the Hawkins family
First impressions of D'Angelo's home
Developing a musical style with D'Angelo
D'Angelo's unique piano approach
Other musicians playing bass and guitar
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Brother Dwayne's reaction to playing guitar
Finding a new guitarist for the tour
Benefits of a smaller touring band
Taking piano lessons and studying keys
Nephew Dylan's piano talent
Online piano lessons from Seattle
Influences: The Spinners and Earth, Wind & Fire
The Wailers' rhythm section
The history and energy of the band
Playing with Earth, Wind & Fire
Bernard Edwards and Queen's 'Another One Bites the Dust'
Beyonce's 'American Requiem' and team dynamics
Rhiannon Giddens' banjo contribution
Balancing musician and producer roles
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Finding a clean copy of a song
Listening to old recordings and production
Making music for personal enjoyment
Video game company Illphonic
Starting the game company with a partner
Def Jam video games and sports games
Playing basketball video games
Writing a song inspired by The Chronic
Collaborators Denzel Foster and Tommy McElroy
How the band got to Mercury Records
Touring with the Tony! Toni! Toné!s
The energy of live shows without phones
Audience demographics during the tour
Revisiting classic music and band dynamics
Perception and past band conflicts
Meeting Brian Grant at the Kings game
Sacramento Kings and Metallica fans
Sports talk shows and First Take
Different voices on sports panels
Trump and George Bush humor
Colin Cowherd's hosting style
Skip Bayless and other sports personalities
Recording in Trinidad for three months
The energy of the 'Sons of Soul' album
Connecting with new musicians
The gap between House of Music and Instant Vintage
Helping family get into good schools
Advice for a friend in sports
Future instrumental music plans
Being a 'friend of the brand'
Celebrity friends and third-grade friends
The secret track and Larry Graham
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