Wilkins, 29, moved to Brooklyn five years ago and has since released a triple album titled "Live at the Village Vanguard" earlier this year. He described his time in New York City as a period of personal and artistic growth, noting a shift towards a more deliberate and refined approach to his music.
"I feel more adult now," Wilkins stated in a recent interview. He explained that moving from Manhattan to Brooklyn has influenced his lifestyle, leading him to value a "slow life" with activities like cooking and walking in the park, which he feels has translated into a more distilled musical expression.
Wilkins views his performances as a spiritual practice, aiming to be a "vessel for God" and allowing music to become an "altar." He spoke about experiencing moments where he feels he is not the one creating the music, but rather a witness to a process that transcends the self, connecting to themes of ancestry and community.
Reflecting on his upcoming shows at the Village Vanguard, the site of his recent triple album recording, Wilkins expressed excitement about exploring new material. He likened the creative process to quantum theory, where observation can alter behavior, suggesting a willingness to experiment and potentially achieve even more spectacular results.