Raphael Saadiq has been a musical force since 1988, but if you ask him about his current run of success, he sounds like a man who is just getting started.
While walking the red carpet at the ABFF Honors, the legendary musician and composer opened up about his whirlwind awards season, his work on Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, and the Academy Award nomination that could finally land him his first Oscar.
With a career spanning nearly four decades, Saadiq knows the industry is unpredictable. However, this past year has reinforced one specific lesson.
“Some of the things I already knew, but [this season taught me] how to always stay ready,” Saadiq told The Quintessential Gentleman. “Always be willing to do what you love and take chances.”
That preparation pays off when the phone rings, especially when the person calling is one of Hollywood’s biggest directors. Saadiq emphasized the importance of being available and prepared “for [a] call from Ryan Coogler… or a director, be up for the challenge.”
Saadiq’s readiness led him to Sinners, the latest collaboration between Coogler and Michael B. Jordan. The project has thrust Saadiq into the center of the awards conversation, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song for the track I Lied to You.
While Saadiq has been recognized by the Academy before (receiving a nomination for Mudbound), a win this year would mark his first Oscar statuette. It is a moment of validation for a musician who says he is “very fortunate [and] blessed to understand” what this level of recognition means at this stage in his life.
“I see work [at] this point in [my] career… It looks really good,” he reflected.
Despite “doing it since 1988,” Saadiq isn’t resting on his legacy. He views these new opportunities as proof that he “took [the] right routes” on his musical journey.
Part of that journey involves working with a diverse range of artists. When asked what the absolute “must-have” ingredient is for him to agree to a collaboration, Saadiq didn’t hesitate with a one-word answer.
“Talent,” he said.
As the Oscars approach, all eyes will be on Saadiq to see if his talent and his ability to “stay ready” will be rewarded with Hollywood’s highest honor.
