Thundercat is set to drop his new album, It Is What It Is, on April 3rd. In the lead-up to the album’s release, the bass maestro also known as Stephen Bruner performed lead single “Black Qualls” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Monday evening. He was joined by the song’s two collaborators, Steve Lacy of The Internet and Steve Arrington. (Indeed, that’s three Steves on one stage.)
“Black Qualls” is said to address what it means to be a young black American. “What it feels like to be in this position right now,” Thundercat explained in a previous statement. “…The weird ins and outs, we’re talking about those feelings… Part of me knew this [track] was where Steve [Arrington] left us.”
Replay the late-night video below.
The album version of “Black Qualls” will reportedly feature additional contributions from Childish Gambino, while the rest of the LP promises joint tracks with Kamasi Washington, Flying Lotus, and Ty Dolla $ign. To promote the record, Thundercat is currently on his largest-ever North American headlining tour. Snag some tickets here.
Thundercat Performs “Black Qualls” on Kimmel: Watch
Lake Schatz
