Crafting The Bashman: How Jidenna and Swanky Blended Music, Culture, and AI

In a recent episode of the 'One More Time Podcast,' Jidenna and Swanky shared a behind-the-scenes look at their collaborative journey, from music creation to brand building, while reflecting on the creative ups and downs of their latest project, "The Bashman." As an artist-producer duo, they candidly explored their experiences, challenges, and their deep connection to both creativity and community, creating a rich narrative full of insight for anyone navigating the world of music and self-expression.

From the get-go, Swanky emphasized the importance of visual identity, echoing the mantra that the ultimate measure of success is when people start dressing like you on Halloween. This assertion set the stage for an exploration of what it means to truly stand out as an artist. For Jidenna and Swanky, it wasn't just about creating music; it was about curating an aesthetic and lifestyle that fans can resonate with—something they achieved with their distinctive look as "The Bashman." Inspired by old-school hip-hop duos, Swanky and Jidenna wanted to do something that went beyond the ordinary producer-artist collaboration, creating an entirely new brand that embodies an effortless fusion of culture, music, and style.

Jidenna and Swanky’s partnership was forged through moments of both serendipity and intention—their first collaboration happened when Jidenna came across a beat Swanky made years ago, which led to his first placement on one of Jidenna's records. From there, the bond grew as they journeyed together to Ghana, an experience that allowed them to deeply connect with each other as well as with their African heritage. Jidenna, who hosted the trip, underscored its importance, emphasizing how the journey became foundational to their partnership and the kind of music they wanted to create. The sense of connecting deeply to cultural roots was not just a moment but a recurring theme in their music and branding.

Their artistic journey wasn’t without its challenges. Jidenna admitted that after leaving a major label, he struggled with promoting his music as an independent artist. He learned that newfound independence came with both empowerment and responsibility. Having full creative control was liberating, but it also meant learning the ropes of social media, content creation, and engaging with an audience—things the major label used to handle for him. Swanky, who already had experience working with independent artists like Kennedy Ryan, was instrumental in helping Jidenna navigate these waters, showing the value of consistency and direct engagement with fans.

Another critical aspect of their brand was the use of artificial intelligence. Jidenna spoke with enthusiasm about their experimentation with AI-generated visuals and how Midjourney and Runway played a role in shaping The Bashman’s distinct aesthetic. The imagery they created—a unique mix of styles inspired by everything from Scottish culture to comic books—became an essential part of their brand identity. AI wasn’t just a tool for content but an extension of their creativity, helping them communicate their vision visually as well as sonically.

The Bashman sound itself was born out of an eclectic mix of genres that both artists loved. Swanky explained their approach of blending dancehall, Afrobeat, and Chicago house, creating something unique that reflected their experiences as first-generation Americans. They wanted their music to embody the richness of their backgrounds—not just the polished elements but also the grit and joy of everyday life. For them, it was about building something that reflected who they truly were, rather than chasing trends or trying to sound like other artists. This blend of genres also spoke to their desire to move away from conventional boundaries and create music that felt both familiar and new.

The episode also delved into the intricacies of creative collaboration. Both Jidenna and Swanky emphasized the importance of open communication and humility in their partnership. When they disagreed—like on the speed of releasing new music—they were able to resolve it by focusing on their shared goal: success. Their approach of talking things out, weighing each other's opinions, and recognizing when an idea might be better suited for an individual rather than the group, demonstrated a level of maturity that is often rare in collaborations. As Jidenna put it, the understanding that "Our intention is to succeed" guided them through any conflict.

Beyond the studio, Jidenna and Swanky expressed a desire to truly connect with their audience. Swanky talked about the value of simply responding to comments, the significance of appreciating every listener, and the privilege of having even one person pause their day to listen to their music. Jidenna, who had previously struggled with social media, highlighted how Swanky's perspective shifted his view of fan engagement from something anxiety-inducing to something fulfilling.

For aspiring artists, Jidenna offered a crucial piece of advice: "True freedom comes with structure." He encouraged new artists to study what has been done before, not to replicate it, but to mash it up into something new. Understanding the past is crucial to creating a future that stands out. Swanky echoed this sentiment, adding that building authentic relationships rather than chasing trends or placements is what ultimately leads to lasting success.

The episode closed with the duo talking about their upcoming releases and the vision they have for the future. Jidenna hinted at releasing more music independently, in a way that reflects his renewed passion and understanding of the industry. Swanky, on the other hand, shared his excitement for continuing to refine and elevate The Bashman’s sound and brand.

Ultimately, the conversation between Jidenna and Swanky was not just a look into their current project but a masterclass in artistic evolution, brand building, and authentic collaboration. It highlighted the beauty of creating from a place of genuine passion and the power of community in taking that creation to new heights.

Photo Credit: Rich Gordan

Watch The Full Episode Here