tech
February 19, 2026
Musician and film-maker Flying Lotus: ‘The whole lo-fi beats thing has become like Starbucks music’
Ahead of a new EP, the creative polymath answers your questions on Thom Yorke, Kendrick Lamar and how a sci-fi epic ate up his whole life

TL;DR
- Flying Lotus considers Kendrick Lamar a genius producer with a clear musical vision.
- Making the sci-fi film 'Ash' was his most challenging yet rewarding creative endeavor, though it deeply impacted his life.
- He cherishes dreams as a source of inspiration and appreciates his subconscious's direction, even in nightmares.
- A collaboration with MF Doom is desired but pending clearance from his estate.
- Alice Coltrane's legacy is being re-evaluated positively, which is moving for him.
- Captain Murphy alter ego will return, with potential collaborations with Westside Gunn and Freddie Gibbs.
- His music has evolved from feeling brand new to a balance of confidence, ability, innocence, and understanding.
- Favorite vocalists include Thundercat, Dawn Richard, Devin Tracy, Erykah Badu, and Thom Yorke (though their collaboration was remote).
- Great producers understand how to navigate an artist's personal life to bring out their best work.
- He still engages in various musical styles but prioritizes challenging himself and following his muse over trends like 'lo-fi beats'.
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