Ziggy Marley, the Grammy-winning reggae artist and son of the legendary Bob Marley, recently sat down with Billboard at his favorite vegan spot, Crossroads Kitchen in Los Angeles, to discuss his highly anticipated new album, Brightside. In a candid and intimate conversation, Ziggy opened up about his creative process, the significance of recording in 432 Hz, and the personal meaning behind one of the album’s standout tracks.
As we settle into our seats at the trendy restaurant, Ziggy greets us with a warm smile and a friendly handshake. It’s clear from the start that he is passionate about his music and eager to share his thoughts on his latest project. “I’m really excited about this album,” he says, his eyes lighting up. “It’s been a long time in the making and I can’t wait for my fans to hear it.”
When asked about the inspiration behind Brightside, Ziggy explains that it was a natural progression from his previous album, Rebellion Rises. “With Rebellion Rises, I was focused on the state of the world and the need for change,” he says. “But with Brightside, I wanted to shift the focus to the individual and their personal journey towards positivity and hope.”
Ziggy also reveals that he recorded the entire album in 432 Hz, a frequency believed to have healing and calming effects on the mind and body. “I’ve always been interested in the power of sound and how it can affect us,” he explains. “Recording in 432 Hz was a conscious decision to create a more soothing and harmonious listening experience for my fans.”
One of the most poignant moments on the album is the track “Bob Marley Boulevard,” a tribute to Ziggy’s father and his legacy. “It’s a very personal song for me,” Ziggy shares. “I wanted to honor my father and the impact he had on the world, but also show that he was a regular person with his own struggles and challenges.”
As we delve deeper into the conversation, it becomes clear that Ziggy’s passion for music goes beyond just creating catchy tunes. He sees it as a powerful tool for spreading positivity and inspiring change. “Music has the ability to bring people together and unite them,” he says. “I hope that through my music, I can spread a message of love, unity, and hope for a better world.”
Ziggy also credits his vegan lifestyle for helping him stay grounded and connected to his music. “Eating plant-based has been a big part of my life for many years now,” he shares. “It’s not just about the physical benefits, but also the spiritual and ethical aspects. It’s all connected to my music and my message.”
As our conversation comes to an end, Ziggy leaves us with a final message for his fans. “I want people to listen to this album and feel uplifted,” he says. “I want them to find their own bright side and hold onto it, even in the face of adversity. That’s what this album is all about.”
With his infectious positivity and genuine love for his craft, Ziggy Marley is sure to win over even more fans with his latest album, Brightside. As we say our goodbyes, it’s clear that this talented artist is not only creating great music, but also spreading a message of hope and unity that is much needed in today’s world.
