Creative Quest

Questlove, music director for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and author of Mo’ Meta Blues, recounts his own musical journey in these spirited reflections on the elements of creativity. Questlove defines creativity as the “personality that makes it possible” to produce art; he discusses the creative process, the value of mentors, and the usefulness of collaboration. Questlove suggests that the best way to engage in the creative process is what he calls “micromeditation,” or taking a few seconds to pause and let one’s mind settle. When one has trouble thinking of new ideas, he recommends going back to an older idea and reworking it, similar to how George Clinton of Parliament Funkadelic incorporated the doo-wop sound of his early works into his albums of the 1970s. Questlove champions collaboration, reflecting on his own work with his Roots partner Tariq Trotter, and advises readers to be curious and open to ideas. Since creativity often grows when encountering the work of others, Questlove encourages artists to work with those who have different approaches, as he did with rapper and producer J Dilla and Talking Heads founder David Byrne, among others. Questlove’s generous, provocative guidebook offers experienced wisdom about tapping into the creative process. (Apr.)