The Untold Truth Of Jacob Collier

From a split-cover prodigy on YouTube to a Grammy-winning artist, Jacob Collier is making waves in the music industry. The 26-year-old North London native has captured the attention of many notable figures, including Quincy Jones, Chris Martin, and SZA. His unique sound blends various genres, including jazz, folk, and R&B, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

Collier's creative interpretations of classic songs have resonated with fans, as evidenced by his covers of Lionel Richie's "All Night Long," Michael Jackson's "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)," and The Beach Boys' "In My Room." However, it was his 2013 rendition of Stevie Wonder's "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing" that truly put him on the map as a musician to watch. Ty Dolla $ign praised him, saying, "Jacob is the real GOAT; he plays everything, sings his ass off, and writes incredible songs."

Despite his talent and original songs like "All I Need" and "Sleeping On My Dreams," Collier has yet to achieve widespread mainstream recognition. This article will explore his inspiring journey and the factors that led him to receive a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year.

Table of Contents

• Music Runs in Jacob Collier's Family
• Quincy Jones is Jacob Collier's Mentor
• What Was Jacob Collier's Inspiration for Djesse?
• Djesse Volume 3 Made Grammy Awards History
• Jacob Collier Collaborated on One of the Biggest Songs of the Year

Music Runs in Jacob Collier's Family

Jacob Collier hails from a family deeply rooted in music. His maternal grandparents were professional violinists, and his grandfather even served as the concertmaster of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. His mother, a single parent, became an accomplished violinist and an instructor at the Royal Academy of Music, nurturing Jacob's musical talents from a young age.

As a child, Collier was encouraged to explore music freely, which allowed him to develop a passion for various instruments. Not only is he a conservatory-trained jazz pianist, but he has also taught himself to play many others, including electric bass, drums, and guitar. He recalls that music was like a second language at home, with his family fostering an environment where creativity thrived.

Quincy Jones is Jacob Collier's Mentor

Quincy Jones, a legendary figure in the music industry, has played a significant role in Jacob Collier's career. Known for his work with icons like Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson, Jones recognized Collier's talent after seeing his cover of a Stevie Wonder song on YouTube. He described Collier's understanding of music theory and improvisation as exceptional.

After signing with Quincy Jones Productions, Collier found himself surrounded by opportunities, participating in jam sessions with renowned musicians such as Pharrell Williams and Herbie Hancock. Collier has referred to Jones as a "godfather figure" in his musical journey, highlighting the deep impact Jones has had on his development as an artist.

What Was Jacob Collier's Inspiration for Djesse?

Collier's ambitious project, the four-volume album Djesse, emerged from his desire to interact with the music world and learn from his heroes. He described it as a "selfish journey" aimed at exploring the depths of musicality and creativity. Each volume delves into different musical aspects, showcasing a range of styles from orchestral to world music.

Through Djesse, Collier aims to blend various sounds and celebrate their diversity. He explained how he wanted to capture the essence of both grand orchestral arrangements and intimate acoustic moments, paving the way for a unique listening experience. The first three volumes were released in 2018, 2019, and 2020, with the fourth anticipated in late 2021 or early 2022.

Djesse Volume 3 Made Grammy Awards History

When Djesse Volume 3 was released in August 2020, Jacob Collier was taken by surprise when it received a Grammy nomination. He described the album as a reflection of his solitary process during the pandemic, with songs that convey a sense of peace and introspection. The nomination was particularly notable as it marked the first time since 1963 that an artist received an Album of the Year nomination without being on Billboard's album chart.

Collier's journey illustrates how passion and talent can lead to unexpected recognition, even in challenging times. Despite limited sales compared to other nominees, his artistic vision and dedication to his craft have paved the way for a remarkable career.

Jacob Collier Collaborated on One of the Biggest Songs of the Year

In addition to his solo work, Jacob Collier has also made significant contributions to other artists' projects. One of his most notable collaborations was with SZA on the song "Good Days," which became a massive hit after its release on Christmas Day 2020. This track has been hailed as the biggest hit of SZA's career, demonstrating Collier's ability to enhance the work of his peers.

The creative process behind "Good Days" was extensive, taking two years to complete. SZA sought Collier's expertise to help finalize the song, and his vocals can be heard alongside hers, adding depth and richness to the track. This collaboration showcases how Collier's talents extend beyond his solo endeavors, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and valuable contributor to the music industry.