Show Notes
Join the vibrant conversation between Rain Phoenix and Merrill Garbus of Tune-Yards as they dive into Merrill’s musical journey and creative process. Merrill reflects on her experience with 4AD Records, maintaining authenticity in an ever changing industry, and the delicate balance between artistic expression and social responsibility.
Then Merrill launches MaJo, aka, Esotérica Tropical. MaJo shares her unique approach to music-making, rooted in healing and connection with the natural world. Together, they highlight the power of music as a tool for personal growth and social change, while also exploring the artists' collaborative projects. The conversation wraps up with Esotérica Tropical’s song "Realismo Magico" featuring Merrill and MaJo’s stunning harmonies.
IN THIS EPISODE:
(00:00) Intro: Rain Phoenix welcomes Merrill Garbus
(05:03) Merrill discusses Tune-Yards' journey and 4AD Records
(10:06) Challenges of navigating the music industry
(15:35) The changing landscape of music distribution
(20:32) Balancing artistry and social responsibility
(25:52) The importance of authenticity and joy in music
(31:41) Introducing Esotérica Tropical (Majo)
(36:15) Merrill and Majo discuss their connection
(40:24) Early musical experiences and influences
(42:30) Listen to “Realismo Magico” by Esotérica Tropical feat. Merrill Garbus
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Music is freedom. It's a way to connect, to heal, and to express what can't be said in words alone.
Song writing and production are so unique to each artist. Artist-label relationships can and should nurture creativity when built on mutual trust and support.
Creating joy and fostering connection are crucial elements in music and art of all forms.
Creating music can serve as a powerful tool for personal healing and growth and expression. Early musical experiences can shape an artist's approach to creativity and their relationship with music and thus carry on the creation of music.
RESOURCE LINKS:
LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link
Tune-Yards Links:
https://www.instagram.com/tuneyards/
https://www.facebook.com/tuneyards/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU4wLkBnwIM
https://tune-yards.bandcamp.com/
TUNE-YARDS BIO:
Formed by Merrill Garbus in 2006, Tune-Yards has become a name synonymous with creativity and forward motion. Known for explosive performances, surprising song structures, and danceable rhythms, their music also highlights connections between song and social consciousness. The New York Times praised their debut album, BiRd-BrAiNs, as “a confident do-it-yourselfer’s opening salvo,” and relentless touring established Garbus as a commanding live performer.
Garbus stepped into the producer role with 2011’s w h o k i l l, a bold and sonically inventive album that earned critical acclaim, including the #1 spot on The Village Voice’s Pazz and Jop poll. By 2021’s sketchy., Garbus and bassist Nate Brenner had solidified their partnership, creating a fully collaborative work. The duo has announced their sixth studio record, Better Dreaming, to be released on May 16, 2025 on 4AD.
Tune-Yards also excels in scoring, contributing to Boots Riley’s Sorry to Bother You, I’m A Virgo, and the forthcoming I Love Boosters. Their artistry continues to expand across music, film, and television.
Esotérica Tropical:
https://www.esotericatropical.com/
https://www.instagram.com/esotericatropical/
https://www.facebook.com/esotericatropical
https://soundcloud.com/esotericatropical
https://esotericatropical.bandcamp.com/
Esotérica Tropical BIO:
Esotérica Tropical is a queer Boricua bruja who transcends musical boundaries with her commanding voice, intuitive folk harp, and a fusion of Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba rhythms and electronic innovation. Her work boldly challenges colonial mentality, advocating for sovereignty and surrealism. A chance encounter with a Celtic harp on a Puerto Rican beach in 2009 transformed her from an acupuncturist into a genre-defying mu
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