In a recent exclusive Q&A at the White Claw® Sessions Powered by Billboard in Los Angeles, A$AP Ferg, a founding member of the iconic A$AP Mob and an established solo artist, opened up about the deeply personal journey behind his latest album, DAROLD. For Ferg, this album represents more than just a collection of songs—it is an honest, raw expression of himself, shedding light on stories that were previously kept hidden from his fans. In the interview, hosted by Billboard's Tetris Kelly, Ferg discusses the creative process behind DAROLD, the importance of vulnerability in his music, and the personal connections that shaped his artistic direction.
Ferg admits that DAROLD is the most personal project he has ever worked on. “This is the most I’ve ever talked about myself,” he shared, emphasizing how opening up about his past and present marked a turning point in his career. “And that’s part of being vulnerable, is showing these other sides that I may have not been prone to show.” The album serves as a window into Ferg’s life, offering listeners an intimate look at the triumphs and tragedies that have shaped him both as an artist and as a person. It’s a project that breaks down the barriers between Ferg and his fans, allowing them to see the man behind the music, his struggles, and his growth.
One of the most notable themes explored in DAROLD is Ferg's relationship with his father. He shared how his father’s influence on him as an artist has played a significant role in shaping his creative endeavors. “I went to art and design high school. I majored in fashion and fine arts, so I’ve always been into art,” Ferg recalled. His father, an artist himself, was a major influence in introducing Ferg to the world of visual arts. "We’re trained artists. Like, I studied skits. We did stipple crosshatch. We did architecture designs. We did. I did. Took a sewing class, so I did silkscreen," Ferg elaborated. The skills he developed in these disciplines became the foundation for many aspects of his career, from music to merchandise. He even shared that he still owns the art machines from his father’s studio, underscoring how deeply the creative bond with his father influenced his own artistic journey.
In addition to exploring his personal life, Ferg spoke about how his background in art has impacted his approach to branding and merchandise. He acknowledged that his involvement in the creative process goes beyond music. "I knew how to make merchandise," Ferg said, revealing how his art skills have helped him build a powerful visual and cultural presence. His hands-on involvement in merchandise design and branding has played a key role in expanding his solo career, allowing him to carve out a distinctive identity in the crowded world of hip-hop.
As for the musical collaborations on DAROLD, Ferg was quick to highlight the contributions of his talented collaborators, such as Denzel Curry, Coco Jones, and the renowned producer Mike WiLL Made-It. These collaborations not only showcase the diversity of the album but also demonstrate Ferg’s ability to bring together a wide range of musical influences and styles. Each artist involved brings their own unique flavor to the project, making DAROLD a rich tapestry of sound that reflects Ferg’s versatility as an artist. The chemistry between Ferg and his collaborators is palpable, with each track offering something fresh while still staying true to Ferg’s signature sound.
Looking ahead, Ferg teased exciting plans for the future, including new projects slated for 2025. While he didn’t reveal too many details, his enthusiasm for what’s to come was evident. "You’ll see me in a lot of different spaces," Ferg hinted, suggesting that he’s ready to expand his creative horizons even further. The interview ended with a sense of anticipation, as fans are left eagerly awaiting Ferg’s next move in the music world.
In summary, DAROLD is a deeply personal and multifaceted project that highlights Ferg’s growth as both an artist and an individual. The album serves as a platform for Ferg to express parts of himself that were previously hidden from the public eye, offering an authentic and vulnerable side of the artist. Through his reflections on family, creativity, and collaboration, Ferg has crafted an album that resonates on both a personal and artistic level. Fans can look forward to more exciting projects from Ferg, with DAROLD setting the stage for what promises to be an even more expansive and innovative chapter in his career.
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