IN CONVERSATION WITH ALOE BLACC

interview by JANA LETONJA

Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum artist Aloe Blacc, responsible for some of the most notable hits of the 21st century such as ‘I Need A Dollar’, ‘The Man’, and Avicii's multi-billion streamed ‘Wake Me Up’, released his new album ‘Stand Together’, tied to charitable causes, reinforcing Aloe’s commitment to using music as a force for good.

‘Stand Together’ is more than just an album, it’s a movement. Can you share how this project came together and what inspired you to tie each track to a charitable cause?

‘Stand Together’ was born out of a deep sense of responsibility. I’ve been working with an organization called Stand Together, which supports community leaders taking bold action to transform the lives of the most vulnerable people. I wanted to amplify the work of this incredible organization and the groups they champion. I was also inspired by my wife, Maya Jupiter, who often uses her artistry to elevate important social causes and nonprofit organizations.

One of my greatest mentors was the late Harry Belafonte, who always quoted his mentor, Paul Robeson, saying that artists are the gatekeepers of truth. I feel it's our responsibility to spread that truth through our music. This album is a reflection of that belief. Every song is paired with a nonprofit that embodies the message of the music, ensuring that this project isn’t just heard but felt and acted upon. By tying each track to a cause, I wanted to show that music can be both a catalyst for change and a vehicle for direct action.

The album features collaborations with incredible producers like Stargate, Oak Felder, DJ Khalil, and Hunter Hayes. What was the creative process like working with them?

Every producer on this album brought something special to the table. Stargate has an incredible ability to craft polished, emotionally resonant melodies. Oak Felder infused the project with dynamic rhythms and modern textures. DJ Khalil brought a deep, soulful grit that gave certain songs a timeless feel. And Hunter Hayes, who comes from the country music world, added his storytelling sensibilities that helped elevate the narratives within the music.

The creative process was highly collaborative. I wanted to ensure that every producer understood the mission behind ‘Stand Together’. This wasn’t just another album, it was an opportunity to create music that would inspire and drive real-world change. We worked together to craft a sound that felt both contemporary and rooted in tradition, ensuring that the music was as powerful as the message it carried.

You’ve always used your music as a tool for social change. Was there a particular moment or event that reinforced your commitment to activism through music?

Meeting Harry Belafonte was a defining moment for me. He told me that artists have an obligation to serve humanity, not just themselves. That conversation reaffirmed my purpose and made me more intentional about the music I create.

Beyond that, I’ve seen firsthand how music can unite people. Whether it’s performing at social justice events or seeing people from different backgrounds come together at my concerts, I know that music is one of the most powerful tools we have for fostering empathy and action. The music industry often serves up messages that reinforce fear, anxiety, and self-doubt. I want my music to be the counterbalance, to uplift and inspire.

Your reinterpretation of Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’ feels especially relevant today. How did you approach modernizing such an iconic song while staying true to its message?

Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’ remains one of the most poignant calls for unity and social awareness in music history. I wanted to honor that legacy while also bringing a fresh perspective to the song.

In reimagining it, I blended elements of reggae and funk to give it a more global feel. Reggae, in particular, has long been a genre of protest and unity, from Bob Marley’s anthems to more contemporary social justice songs. By incorporating that influence, I wanted to create a version that resonates with a new generation while staying true to the song’s original message.

This cover is also a tribute to the power of message-driven music. Marvin Gaye used his platform to speak out against injustice, and I believe it’s my duty to do the same. ‘What’s Going On’ is as relevant today as it was when it was first released, and my hope is that this new interpretation encourages listeners to engage with its message in a meaningful way.

You’ve given us some of the most memorable songs of the 21st century, from I’ Need A Dollar’ to ‘Wake Me Up’. How do you think your sound has evolved over the years?

I think I’ve grown as a storyteller. Early in my career, I was focused on melody and hooks, making sure the music felt good. Now, my approach is more layered. I think deeply about the message behind every lyric and how each song can serve a greater purpose.

Musically, I’ve also become more adventurous. I love blending genres—soul, folk, pop, electronic, reggae—because every style offers a different way to convey emotion. My hit song ‘The Man’ has layers of inspiration that range from hip-hop to classical music, and I apply that same approach to everything I create. I want my music to be both timeless and relevant, and that means constantly evolving while staying true to my core values.

Looking back on your journey, was there a specific moment that made you realize your music was making a real impact?

Back when I had first released ‘I Need a Dollar’, I was offered the chance to do an ad campaign for a well-known liquor brand, my dad’s favorite gin in fact. Even though I don’t drink, I agreed to do the endorsement at the time. Soon after, my face was on posters and billboards across major US cities promoting the product.

Then I got a call from a friend named Lucy who was working with the Community Coalition of South Los Angeles, an organization my wife Maya had connections with. She shared that their team had been doing community work in areas disproportionately affected by alcohol-related harm and over-saturation of liquor stores. Seeing my image used to promote alcohol, especially in those very neighborhoods, was disappointing to them.

Lucy invited me to visit and learn more about the work they were doing to create healthier, more supported communities. That visit changed everything for me. It was the moment I realized I couldn’t be passive about how my music, and my image, was being used. I had a responsibility to show up intentionally and to stand in solidarity with people working toward equity and healing.

From that point forward, I became much more intentional about the projects I take on. It helped shape the way I approach my art and business today—making sure that both align with my values and serve a meaningful purpose.

You’ve worked across multiple genres—soul, folk, pop, electronic. What continues to draw you to different sounds and styles?

I grew up listening to so many different styles of music, everything from Nas and A Tribe Called Quest to Joni Mitchell, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Rubén Blades. My parents played calypso, reggae, soca, and salsa in the house. All of those influences shaped me.

For me, music is about storytelling, and different genres offer different ways to tell a story. Soul allows for deep emotional expression, folk is intimate and raw, pop is universal, electronic music has an energy that can be transformative. I love blending these sounds because it allows me to reach people in different ways.

You’ve spoken openly about the challenges your family faced during the LA fires. How did that experience shape your perspective on life and music?

The fires were a reminder of how fragile everything is. My children’s school, Pasadena Waldorf, was destroyed. Families lost their homes. Businesses were wiped out. It reinforced the importance of resilience and community support.

That’s why I felt compelled to contribute my time and concert earnings, to use my influence to show that artists can engage in commerce and philanthropy simultaneously. It wasn’t just about raising money; it was about standing up for my community and reminding people that we have a responsibility to help each other.

How do you balance being an artist, activist, and family man while staying true to your personal and creative values?

It’s all about priorities. My family comes first, and I make sure that no matter how busy life gets, I’m present for them. At the same time, I see my music and activism as extensions of who I am. They’re not separate roles, they’re part of the same mission.

I stay true to my values by being intentional about the projects I take on. Whether it’s music, business, or philanthropy, I want everything I do to have a positive impact. That’s what keeps me grounded.

What’s next for you after this album? Any upcoming collaborations, projects, or causes you’re excited about?

I’m continuing to expand my work with Major Inc., my biotech company. Just like in music, innovation in the life sciences requires collaboration. I want to use the same philosophy behind ‘Stand Together’, bringing people together to create change, and apply it to healthcare and biotech.

On the music side, I’m always writing, always creating. I don’t know exactly what’s next, but I know it will be rooted in purpose. Whether it’s a new album, a documentary, or something entirely unexpected, I want my next project to continue inspiring people to stand together and take action.

photography ZACH BELL