by Kandiss Edwards
Could 8, 2025
André Benjamin, also called André 3000, is being honored for his musical contributions throughout his decades-long profession.
Grammy-winning rapper, singer and songwriter André Benjamin, also called André3000, will probably be awarded an honorary Physician of Music diploma by Berklee School of Music. The award will probably be conferred to the New Blue Solar composer throughout Berklee’s graduation ceremony Could 10.
This honor acknowledges André 3000’s important contributions to music and tradition. The honour denotes his success as each a person and one-half of the Grammy-winning group Outkast. In both capability, André 3000’s eclectic and progressive method to music has arguably opened doorways for each his friends and new generations.
Graduation festivities start Friday, Could 9, at 7:30 p.m. with a live performance and reception at Agganis Area. Greater than 200 pupil vocalists, instrumentalists, arrangers, dancers, and producers will current a tribute to the honorees.
The announcement of the award coincides with the reclusive artist’s return to mainstream consideration. Could 5, he made a memorable look on the 2025 Met Gala. The instrumentalist wore a customized Burberry jumpsuit with a Steinway Mannequin S child grand piano strapped to his again. The style assertion served two functions. First, the look upheld the gala’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Fashion.” Second, the visible served as an announcement for his new instrumental piano providing, 7 Piano Sketches
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The selection in ensemble was additionally an almost precise reproduction of the album cowl to the brand new providing. 7 Piano Sketches is a seven-track assortment of piano compositions. Benjamin recorded the challenge at residence utilizing solely his iPhone and laptop computer. The album options private items permitting him to discover versatility in musicianship.
He described the challenge as an “emotional palate cleanse” influenced by artists equivalent to Thelonious Monk, Philip Glass, and Joni Mitchell.
This launch follows his 2023 launch, New Blue Solar which targeted on instrumentals of largely jazz flute. The album acquired important acclaim and good critiques from his followers.
RELATED CONENT: André 3000 Drops Newest Instrumental Album Moments After Met Gala Look