Brandon Coleman Talks Future Funk, Cosmic Keys, and the Soul of Los Angeles
- charlie6081
- Jul 16
- 6 min read
Known for his boundary-defying solo albums and his work alongside Kamasi Washington and the West Coast Get Down; keyboardist, composer, and “future funk” architect Brandon Coleman has become a defining voice in the city’s modern sonic landscape.
In this stylish Q&A, Coleman reflects on his musical roots, his evolving creative process, and what it means to make music in—and for—Los Angeles. He shares the philosophy behind his genre-bending sound, opens up about legacy, collaboration, and what’s next, and gives us a personal tour of the local spots that spark his imagination.
Your music often blends elements of jazz, funk, and electronic sounds. How did you arrive at this unique fusion, and what inspires you to keep pushing those boundaries?
I've always been intrigued by the fusion of electronic and traditional music. I love the sound of a grand piano, but I’m equally drawn to the eerie tones of a theremin or a synthesizer. My music often incorporates vocoder because I believe that one day, robots will sing—and I want to be at the forefront of exploring what that sounds like. I'm always looking ahead, trying to stay on the cutting edge of what's possible in music.
Los Angeles seems to be a significant influence on your music. How does the city shape your sound and creative process?
Growing up in Los Angeles, the city has always been a significant part of my musical journey. I used to ride the bus with my Walkman, and every part of LA brought a different frequency and tone to my experience. In places like Watts or South Central, I feel something raw and real, while the beach brings me solitude. But even in South Central, there’s a lightness that isn’t always seen because of negative connotations. I’ve found light in those spaces, and it’s important for me to represent that in my music. LA’s rich musical history, from Patrice Rushen to the Leimert Park community, has deeply influenced how I create and hear music.
You've collaborated with some incredible artists over the years. How do those collaborations influence your own creative process and musical evolution?
Collaboration, for me, is a journey of exploration. Every time I work with artists like Flying Lotus, Kamasi Washington, or Thundercat, it's about learning and exploring together. It’s life-changing because we get to navigate new territories and ideas, which opens up new creative spaces. These collaborations have profoundly influenced my style and creative evolution. I’m always excited to collaborate because it's through these shared experiences that we push the envelope of love, togetherness, and creativity.
What are some of the most important lessons you've learned throughout your career, and how have they shaped the way you approach your music and life today?
One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that vulnerability is a strength. Sharing your truth, even when it’s imperfect, is powerful. Music has taught me patience, discipline, and the importance of staying grounded. The industry can pull you in many directions, but holding onto your sense of self keeps you steady. I’ve also learned that the people you keep around you—your community—can either elevate or drain your energy, so staying surrounded by love is key.
Your music often incorporates futuristic and cosmic elements. What draws you to these themes, and how do you see them evolving in your future projects?
I’m drawn to futuristic and cosmic elements because they allow me to reinterpret old-school music in a new way. I love artists like Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, and Nat King Cole, and I enjoy using the vocoder to bring a modern twist to those classic sounds. I also draw inspiration from films. Watching movies like Ad Astra sparks ideas for new songs, helping me translate those visual experiences into music. It’s thrilling to merge these elements and push the envelope of what’s possible in music.
What’s been the most challenging part of your musical journey so far, and how have you overcome it?
The most challenging part of my musical journey has been overcoming the way society often reduces me to my skin color. As a Black man, I'm often seen through a limited lens. But once people hear me play, music becomes a bridge. It’s a way to connect and transcend barriers. I use my music to spread love and joy, changing narratives and helping others see beyond color.
What advice would you give to young musicians who are trying to find their own voice and navigate the industry today?
To young musicians, I’d say: always have reverence for those who came before you. Recognize the groundwork laid by musicians who couldn’t even enter clubs through the front door. It’s vital to understand the sacrifices that allow us to exist and be seen today. Understand that where you are today is because of the struggles and perseverance of those who came before you. By having respect and learning from the past, we can all move forward together, honoring the legacy while evolving the music.
What’s your creative process like when you’re working on a new project? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the right mindset?
Most people don’t know this, but I’m an avid fisherman and love spending time in nature. Being in the woods or by a lake helps me find my own heartbeat and connect with the music that’s always playing around us. It’s in these quiet moments that I can truly hear what the universe and my ancestors are telling me. Whether I’m jamming with synthesizers or journaling, I start by gathering my intentions and being open to what comes.
What’s one of your most memorable collaborations, and why does it stand out to you?
One of my most memorable collaborations was with Babyface. I used to play in his band, and during soundchecks, I’d share little ideas. One day, he noticed and invited me to the studio to explore them. That led to a songwriting trip with other producers and writers, and we ended up creating a hit song that got licensed for a film. That experience jolted my songwriting career and changed my perspective on what I could achieve as a musician.
What role do you think technology plays in the evolution of music, and how do you incorporate it into your own work?
Technology is always evolving, especially with AI. I use tools like ChatGPT for lyrics and brainstorming, and AI for admin tasks like splits or email drafting. As a self-taught musician, I embrace technology in keyboards and pedals—Nord, Moog, Arturia—because it allows me to expand my voice. I think technology is a gift when used with intention.
What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I hope listeners walk away from my music feeling a sense of authenticity—and the possibility of unconditional love. I want them to feel seen, embraced, and inspired to not only receive love, but to give it freely too. There’s a lineage in my music that’s intentional. It’s Black culture, it’s the sounds I grew up with, it’s the soul of gospel and the imagination of film scores all blended together.
What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re especially excited about?
I’ve got a new project in the pipeline that I’m finalizing, and I’m really excited about it. My next single drops soon, and I’ll also be releasing a short film called Just Beyond the Sun—something I’m really proud of both musically and visually. There are some beautiful collaborations coming up too, and I’m looking forward to sharing those when the time is right.
And because we are LA Explained, what are your top 10 places in LA?
1) Venice Beach – Grew up coming here. Still a source of rhythm, chaos, and color for me.
2) My Mom’s House in South Central – The emotional core of everything I do.
3) Leimert Park / The World Stage – Cultural heartbeat. This is the real epicenter of Black creativity in LA.
4) Mount Sinai Baptist Church – My brother served here as Minister of Music. Big influence on my musical roots.
5) Colburn School of Performing Arts – Where I trained. It gave me classical structure.
6) The Getty Center – Love checking out the exhibits; the space itself feels like a retreat for the mind.
7) Woodman Studios (Sherman Oaks) – Where ideas turn into records.
8) LACMA – Always a source of inspiration, especially for cross-genre ideas.
9) Amoeba Music (Hollywood) – I can get lost in there for hours.
10) IMAX at Universal City – I’m a big film head. Seeing movies there is always next level.
Brandon recently performed at Grand Performances as part of the John Coltrane: A Love Supreme at 60 event. Grand Performances focuses on inspiring community, celebrating diversity & uniting LA through free access to the performing arts.
