Donald Glover, known for his multifaceted career in music, acting, writing, and directing, is retiring his musical alter ego, Childish Gambino. This decision coincides with the release of his sixth album, "Bando Stone & the New World," set to drop on Friday. In an interview with The New York Times, Glover explained his decision, stating, “It really was just like, ‘Oh, it’s done.’ It’s not fulfilling. And I just felt like I didn’t need to build in this way anymore.”
Glover’s career under the Childish Gambino moniker began gaining traction in 2010, but after a decade of success, including the Grammy-winning single “This Is America,” he feels it's time to move on. Glover's music has always been a raw expression of his art, contrasting with his more cerebral television work, such as the critically acclaimed series "Atlanta."
The new album, “Bando Stone & the New World,” was inspired by a feature film idea about a musician recording his masterpiece on a remote island amidst a global calamity. Glover said the project allowed him to explore themes of character and the meaning of work. “I thought there was a really great journey in somebody making music and not knowing what the purpose of it was,” he said.
The album features collaborations with rising R&B and rap artists such as Amaarae, Jorja Smith, Fousheé, Flo Milli, and Yeat. Glover’s longtime co-manager, Fam Udeorji, emphasized the goal of creating a lasting impact rather than chasing chart success. “If people listen to this album and it becomes a part of their identity… that kind of real estate is way more valuable to me,” he said.
Producer Michael Uzowuru described the creative environment as relaxed and wholesome, noting that the album includes references to fatherhood and a performance from Glover’s first son, Legend, on the track “Can You Feel Me?” Glover, who turned 40 last September, reflected on the value of authenticity and emotional resonance in his work. “I think grace is undervalued in the world,” he said. “When I put my son on my shoulders, I feel deep joy. That’s real.”
With "Bando Stone & the New World," Glover aims to leave a lasting legacy that transcends traditional metrics of success, marking the end of an era for Childish Gambino and opening new chapters in his artistic journey.
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