Tyler, The Creator Embraces Playfulness with New Album DON’T TAP THE GLASS

In a recent interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1, Tyler, The Creator discussed his latest album, DON’T TAP THE GLASS, expressing a desire to pivot back to a lighter, more carefree musical approach. Following the emotional depth of his previous project, CHROMAKOPIA, Tyler aimed to infuse this new work with fun and humor.

A Shift in Creative Direction

Reflecting on the personal themes explored in CHROMAKOPIA, which included topics such as relationships and impending fatherhood, Tyler shared, “CHROMAKOPIA was so… for me.” He articulated a need to release that emotional weight, stating, “After the weight of that got off, I just wanted to be silly again.” This desire for light-heartedness permeates DON’T TAP THE GLASS, allowing for a refreshing change in tone.

The Essence of DON’T TAP THE GLASS

The album’s tracks, such as “Rah Tah Tah,” “Noid,” and “Sticky,” showcase Tyler’s distinct Los Angeles accent and quirky sense of humor. Notably, he drew inspiration from a viral Instagram clip of a young girl urging someone to “Get your funky ass in that tub, bitch,” which became a recurring motif throughout the album. Tyler emphasizes that DON’T TAP THE GLASS deliberately avoids deep cuts, intros, and outros. “I just want to be fun and say outrageous shit and talk big fly shit,” he remarked, underscoring the project’s straightforward, upbeat intent.

Movement and Performance at the Heart

Tyler also reflected on how dance has always been integral to his artistry. He nostalgically recalled his childhood conviction of being Usher at the age of seven, illustrating how pivotal performance is to his work. With DON’T TAP THE GLASS, he relishes the freedom to express himself physically, stating, “I finally felt free to gyrate and groove without restraint.” This emphasis on movement aligns with his ambitions to create “super urgent, upbeat shit,” which he describes as the primary goal for the album.

Conclusion and Reflection

With the release of DON’T TAP THE GLASS, Tyler, The Creator returns to the playful roots of his artistic journey, providing listeners with exactly the energetic and infectious vibes he believes they may also seek. The album is positioned not only as a significant personal statement but also as a reaction to the ongoing need for lightness in today’s music scene. Fans can now immerse themselves in this vibrant work, available for streaming, and watch the full interview with Tyler through the provided link.

Watch the full interview here.

In an industry often marked by complexity and introspection, Tyler’s latest offering reinforces the notion that sometimes, creativity thrives in simplicity and joy.