BADBADNOTGOOD Biography
Who is BADBADNOTGOOD? A Brief Career Overview
BADBADNOTGOOD, often stylized as BBNG, is a Toronto-based jazz ensemble that's been shaking up the music scene since their formation in 2010. Comprised of incredible musicians--including keyboardist Matthew Tavares, bassist Chester Hansen, drummer Alexander Sowinski, and saxophonist Leland Whitty--their innovative sound seamlessly blends elements of jazz, hip-hop, and alternative music. With a flair for reinterpretation and collaboration, BADBADNOTGOOD has carved out a unique niche, gaining widespread acclaim and pushing the boundaries of traditional genres.
They first garnered attention with their captivating covers of hip-hop tracks, honing a sound that not only honors the past but also reshapes it for the modern listener. Their pioneering work has paved the way for new expressions within the vinyl space, as many of their albums boast striking releases that vinyl collectors adore. Whether it's their experimental jams or collaborations with icons like Kendrick Lamar and Ghostface Killah, BADBADNOTGOOD stands out in the ever-evolving landscape of music--truly embodying the spirit of vinyl culture through their artistic ventures.
BADBADNOTGOOD's Early Life and Background
Born from a love of music in Toronto, BADBADNOTGOOD was founded by four talented students from Humber College, deeply rooted in jazz traditions and influenced heavily by hip-hop culture. Their early exposure to music came from differing backgrounds, with each member bringing their own influences, from jazz greats to contemporary hip-hop icons. This blending of worlds laid the groundwork for their future innovations.
Many of the band members' families fostered artistic expression, and the rich mosaic of Toronto's music scene served as a backdrop for their formative years. Connecting through shared experiences, they explored various musical styles that would later manifest in their own vibrant sound. The camaraderie and creativity that sprouted during their college years inspired their passion for not only creating music but also collecting vinyl records, serving as a tangible connection to the rich history they admired.
The Musical Influences That Shaped BADBADNOTGOOD's Sound
BADBADNOTGOOD's sound is a melting pot of influences, drawing on a wide range of musical styles that traverse jazz, hip-hop, and beyond. Artists like Miles Davis, J Dilla, and even Nirvana have shaped their innovative approach to music composition. Their admiration for hip-hop culture is evident in their captivating covers and remixes of classic tracks, allowing them to traverse audiences and genres effortlessly.
Throughout their lives, members have embraced the vinyl medium not only as fans but as collectors, scouring record stores for rare finds that influenced their artistic endeavors. Albums that resonate with the spirit of creation--whether classic jazz or influential hip-hop--feature prominently in their collections and echo in their compositions.
How BADBADNOTGOOD Entered the Music Industry
BADBADNOTGOOD's ascent to the music industry was nothing short of organic. Initially performing covers of their favorite hip-hop tracks, they uploaded their jam session based on Odd Future's music to YouTube, capturing the attention of not only fans but also influential artists like Tyler, The Creator. Their debut album, BBNG, recorded in just a three-hour session, was released in 2011, and marked the beginning of a remarkable journey.
Early challenges included finding the right platform to distribute their music and connecting with audiences beyond Toronto. Yet, their talent shone through and led to live performances alongside celebrated artists and eventual collaborations. As their music evolved, they began embracing vinyl production, yielding releases that not only showcased their art but also drew in collectors who cherished the physicality of their work.
BADBADNOTGOOD's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame
The breakthrough moment for BADBADNOTGOOD came with their third album, III, released in 2014. The album, which debuted at the top of the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart, featured innovative tracks like "Hedron" and "CS60". The vinyl release of this album significantly boosted their reach, enchanting both fans and collectors alike with its high-quality pressing that emphasized their rich, instrumental sound.
Following this success, BADBADNOTGOOD explored deeper collaborations, touring extensively and solidifying their place within both the jazz and hip-hop communities. Their accolades have included nominations for prestigious awards like the Polaris Music Prize, demonstrating their significant impact on contemporary music and earning them an enduring reputation in the vinyl collector community.
How Personal Life Shaped BADBADNOTGOOD's Music
Personal experiences have undoubtedly shaped BADBADNOTGOOD's artistry. Themes of love, loss, and self-discovery emerge within their music--reflecting the struggles and triumphs faced by individual members. Relationships, both personal and professional, have inspired collaborations that fuse multiple genres, revamping traditional sounds into fresh interpretations.
Actively engaged in philanthropic efforts, BADBADNOTGOOD's involvement in social causes shines through in the thoughtful narratives of their music. Despite facing challenges, including the departure of founding member Matthew Tavares, the band has continued to harness their personal journeys--transforming their experiences into evocative compositions that resonate deeply with their audience. Their transparency and evolution have only strengthened their ties with fans and collectors, further embedding them in the vinyl culture that celebrates authentic storytelling.
