Tyler, The Creator recently reflected on the backlash he received for his 2015 album, Cherry Bomb, during a candid discussion in the new Instagram video series "Ask It Anyway." This mixed reception, he asserts, has led to one of the most significant turning points in his artistic career. He characterized the backlash as a catalyst for growth, stating, "It made me say, oh s—t – these songs aren’t good. I realized I needed to reteach myself how to write songs."
In Cherry Bomb, Tyler aimed to showcase his versatility as a producer, leading him to experiment with various sounds and styles. However, the aggressive push for diversity in his music left some critics feeling perplexed. The harsh criticisms were a wake-up call that encouraged Tyler to focus on the fundamental aspects of songwriting, including choruses, hooks, and overall song structure. This period of self-reflection and reevaluation proved transformative, turning what many saw as a failure into a defining moment in his artistic journey.
Tyler’s next album, Flower Boy, released in 2017, marked a departure from the style of Cherry Bomb and was met with critical acclaim. He explicitly wrote, produced, and arranged every song on the album, emphasizing a more cohesive and polished approach. During his retrospective, Tyler noted that Flower Boy represented his growth and a shift in perception among listeners: "You have to tell people who you are… Now people are subconsciously listening to the production in a different way now, because I let them know that."
Despite the overwhelming success of Flower Boy, Tyler has been vocal about his feelings regarding Cherry Bomb. Even as he embarks on his ongoing Chromakopia World Tour, he has made it clear that he will not be performing songs from the contentious album. In response to fans urging him to include tracks from Cherry Bomb, he took to X (formerly Twitter), expressing, "I hope you don’t [chant for it], it’s mad annoying during the show. I’m not gonna play it, chanting doesn’t make me magically wanna play it." His firm stance speaks to the complicated relationship he has with this particular phase of his career.
Tyler’s candid reflection on his artistic evolution is a reminder that creativity is often a journey fraught with challenges and criticisms. However, it is also a path filled with opportunities for growth and self-discovery. The backlash surrounding Cherry Bomb may have stung at the time, but it ultimately pushed Tyler to hone his craft and elevate his music to new heights.
Today, Tyler, The Creator stands as a multifaceted artist, comfortable in his skin and continually redefining the boundaries of hip-hop. With each new project, he challenges himself to grow, not only as a musician but as an individual. As fans look forward to his latest work and live performances, they can appreciate the journey he’s undertaken to arrive at this point.
The candid conversation about Cherry Bomb serves as an important reminder that growth doesn’t always come from our successes; often, it emerges from our failures. In this way, Tyler has turned criticism into a constructive tool, allowing him to refine his sound and identity. His story resonates with artists and fans alike, showcasing the importance of resilience and artistic integrity.
For those interested in diving deeper, the full episode of “Ask It Anyway” offers a unique glimpse into Tyler’s mindset and artistic philosophy, revealing how he navigated the challenges following the release of Cherry Bomb. In doing so, he becomes a beacon of hope for many aspiring artists, demonstrating that it is possible to emerge stronger from criticism.
As Tyler continues his Chromakopia World Tour, audiences can expect a dynamic, well-crafted performance that reflects his growth as an artist. His refusal to dwell on the past mistakes of Cherry Bomb speaks to the maturity he has achieved and the confidence he exudes in his current work. His evolution not only enriches his own artistry but also elevates the genres of hip-hop and contemporary music as a whole.
In conclusion, Tyler, The Creator’s reflection on the backlash surrounding Cherry Bomb is more than just a personal anecdote; it’s a universal lesson in resilience, adaptation, and growth. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to his music, understanding this evolution adds a richer layer to the listening experience. If you haven’t yet, consider exploring his discography—each album offers a new perspective on his journey as an artist, and it’s a journey well worth following.
