Bilal brings it.
Bilal brings it.
Video directed by Kylie Hazzard. Photos by Larry Hirshowitz. Graphic by Rommel Alcantara/KCRW

Bilal: KCRW Live from HQ

Intimate performances, fresh sounds, and candid conversations with a view.

Written by Marion Hodges

Bilal’s resume is as expansive as his in-demand vocal range: The Philly-based singer-songwriter and producer counts Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Solange, Robert Glasper, Erykah Badu, and Common among his collaborators.

But last year, Bilal made a point of reminding us that he’s a solo artist in his own right with the release of Adjust Brightness, the Grammy-winner’s first studio album in nearly a decade. Critically acclaimed as his best work yet, the record offers a cosmic survey of sound that stretches from ambient electronic to psych-funk. Naturally, we had to ask to come touch down at KCRW’s Annenberg Performance Studio to flex his stuff live, alongside band members Randy Runyon (guitar), Conley “Tone” Whitfield (bass), and Joseph “Joe Blaxx” Grissett (drums). Click the video above to catch the galactic action. Keep scrolling below for Bilal in conversation with MBE host Novena Carmel about making music to endure the passing of time and why J Dilla’s creative genius remains unparalleled 20 years after his untimely death. 

Explore more KCRW Live From sessions








Credits:
KCRW Music Director: Alejandro Cohen
Interviewer: Novena Carmel
Director/Director of Photography/ Editor: Kylie Hazzard
Camera operators: Milana Burdette, Rachel Bickert, Kylie Hazzard
KCRW Recording / Mix Engineer: Nick Lampone
Assistant Engineers: Hope Brush and Katie Gilchrest
Executive Producer: Ariana Morgenstern
Senior Producer: Anna Chang
Event Producer: Liv Surnow
Digital Producer: Marion Hodges
Digital Editorial Manager: Andrea Domanick
Social Video Editor: Tohar Zamir
Lighting Design: Jason Groman
Art Director: Evan Solano

More from KCRW

Going to an outdoor event at the Hollywood Bowl or Gloria Molina Grand Park? Consider packing steak salad, Vietnamese banh mi, pastries with savory fillings, and more.

from Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Critics review the latest film releases: “From the World of John Wick: Ballerina,” “Dangerous Animals,” “Predator: Killer of Killers,” “The Life of Chuck.”

from Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Featuring selections that range from carefully curated music from around the world with unique gems and quality tracks that will satisfy the needs of even the most discerning music…

from Jason Kramer

A sonic trip through the past, present and future of roots music.

from Jeremy Sole

Raul Campos creates a mix of emerging artists and current favorites, bringing essential cuts from around the world and a little closer to home -- from soulful grooves and fresh remixes…

from Raul Campos

New releases in all genres.

from Chris Douridas