This week, ThinkTimm reflects on the profound impact of the iconic musician, producer, composer, and performer, Prince. He emphasizes that without Prince’s influence, navigating the music landscape with confidence would be a challenging endeavor. Growing up alongside the emergence of hip-hop in the late 70s and its explosion in the 80s has significantly shaped ThinkTimm’s musical preferences, allowing him to evolve with the genre.

The 1980s was a remarkable era for music, characterized by a diverse array of genres—from pop, rock, and country to jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. ThinkTimm discusses how this rich cross-section provided countless influences for musicians. He shares his thoughts on multi-talented artists who play several instruments, suggesting that their musical catalogs might not differ much from those produced by a dedicated team. His comparison between Prince and Michael Jackson adds an intriguing layer to this discussion.

Throughout the episode, ThinkTimm pays tribute to the creative individuals from his neighborhood in West Oak Lane, Northwest Philadelphia. He recalls the inspiring environment where local talent chased their dreams and contributed to a vibrant music scene. This serves as a reminder that music can thrive even in an age dominated by social media and technology. ThinkTimm notes that the current technology enhances creativity, enabling the production of richer, more layered sounds that resonate with listeners.

As he navigates through his memories and influences, ThinkTimm highlights the importance of recognizing how the past informs the present and future. He urges listeners not to overlook this vital connection, as understanding our musical roots is essential for appreciating today’s artistic landscape.

As this reflective episode comes to a close, ThinkTimm promises to return to the journey of the independent musician in the next episode, focusing on the challenges of building a community and audience while striving to share his music with everyone. He hints at the possibility of incorporating discussions about influences in future episodes, emphasizing that this exploration is an ongoing work in progress.

Join us for another enlightening experience in Episode 009 as ThinkTimm continues to navigate the world of music, sharing his insights and inspirations along the way. Don’t miss the chance to engage in this captivating conversation about the influences that shape our musical expressions!