André 3000 was as surprised as anybody else to learn that his transition from hip-hop to “punk spiritual jazz” had earned him a Grammy nomination for his second Album of the Year for his instrumental album, New Blue Sun.
Naturally, the former member of OutKast received their first nomination of this kind for Speakerboxxx/The Love Below twenty years ago. And André responded to the news that his foray far from hip-hop has led to a second in an interview with The New York Times on Friday, November 8.
He said, “I heard that the nominations came in just as I was waking up.” We were attempting to receive some kind of nomination, perhaps for ambient or alternative jazz.
However, this completely caught me off guard. In other words, it was really, really, really awesome.
André gave his ex-partner Erykah Badu another award a few days before he received his major Grammys trophy.
He presented Badu with the Fashion Icon Award at the 2024 CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Awards on October 29 in New York City.
I had no idea what to anticipate when Erykah told me, “I have some good news to share with you.” I wasn’t sure if she would say, “I’m in a new relationship,” or “I’m pregnant.” Three stacks made a joke.
She then informs me that I have won the Fashion Icon Award from the CFDA. After that, we exclaimed, “Wooo!” in delight and pleasure. It’s this one. And why did it take them so long to realize?
“Erykah is one of the most original and unique human beings I’ve ever known,” André said, lavishing the R&B singer with admiration. She has a very unique style. To everyone she encounters, she serves as an inspiration. She is a mother, a songwriter, a singer, a rule-breaker, an iconoclast, an outcast, a warrior, an activist, an educator, a magician, a seer, and a great, great friend.
Her presence makes the world a more cheerful, vibrant, joyful, dedicated, and significant place to be. It gives me great pleasure to award Erykah Badu with the CFDA Fashion Icon Award.
Then, sporting a characteristically striking ensemble with hanging headpieces, Erykah Badu took the stage and embraced her “Hello” co-star, whom she called her “best friend”.
She went on to discuss her passion for fashion, saying, “For me, this is sport.” If my shit isn’t together and I don’t leave the house, I don’t feel right. I don’t mean to offend, but it’s my husband, my therapy, and my workout.
