In a move that blends musical innovation with fashion flair, André 3000 has unveiled his latest project, 7 Piano Sketches, a seven-track instrumental EP. The release coincided with his striking appearance at the 2025 Met Gala, where he donned a replica Steinway baby grand piano on his back, captivating attendees and fans alike.
A Decade in the Making
The compositions on 7 Piano Sketches were crafted nearly ten years ago during a minimalist period in Texas, where André resided with his son. Recorded using just a MacBook and an iPhone, the tracks were initially shared only with close friends and family. André described the pieces as “playful and emotionally freeing,” highlighting their spontaneous nature. He humorously referred to the EP as the “worst rap album in history,” emphasizing its complete absence of lyrics and its departure from traditional rap norms.
Visual and Musical Synergy
At the Met Gala, André’s ensemble featured a Burberry jumpsuit, a red hat, and the aforementioned piano accessory, aligning with the event’s theme inspired by Black Dandyism and diaspora identity. The piano, crafted from lightweight materials by design firm Pink Sparrow, weighed approximately 30 pounds. This visual statement mirrored the cover art of 7 Piano Sketches, further intertwining his musical and fashion expressions.
Continuing Artistic Evolution
7 Piano Sketches follows André’s 2023 Grammy-nominated album New Blue Sun, which marked his foray into flute-centric compositions. The new EP continues his exploration of instrumental music, drawing inspiration from artists like Thelonious Monk, Philip Glass, and Joni Mitchell. André’s shift towards instrumental pieces reflects his desire for creative freedom and emotional expression beyond conventional rap.