PREMIERE: Anderson Paak - Drugs

After blowing us away with his collaboration with TOKiMONSTA last week, it was only right we teamed up with Anderson Paak to premiere the music video for his new single “Drugs,” which is available now via iTunes. The track will be featured on Paak’s forthcoming LP, Venice, and with the help of director Mike Dempsey the visual pairing turned out spectacular. Not only does the video see a great collection of energized performance clips and striking shots of models, but Paak goes as far as performing while his hat on fire. Press play up top to see it for yourself, and after read our exclusive Q&A with Anderson Paak below.

Who are you?

Peace my name Anderson .Paak I’m an artist from Oxnard California based in Los Angeles.

Your single “Drugs” is enjoying quite a buzz. What’s the story behind it?

This has been my most experimental phase when it comes to writing and drug use. A lot of my songs are based on my experience or experiences of my close friends. I try to be the voice that reflects what’s happening in my circle, sometimes it connects with a broad audience. We wrote the song in 15 minutes ( including the beat ) it was something we knew so well.

Note: My wife is addicted to coffee and she literally doesn’t give a fuck about anything until she gets it.

How does the video translate the single?

I wanted the video to reflect the live performance of the song. The emotion that the song brings to my live show is really powerful and I wanted that. I didn’t want a bunch of drugs in the video or anything on the head. I wanted something broad, artistic, urban, sexy and dark. These are all things I feel the song is, outside of being really relatable. I think Mike Dempsy and his team executed well.

What can you tell us about your new album Venice? What kind of sound can we expect?

This is the first album where I was able to work closely with one producer ( LO_DEF ) and mold a big sound. The album is modern R&B Hip Hop and frankly a lot fun. Something outside of my comfort zone but it feels like a natural progression to where I want to go.

Your 2 cents on the music industry.

It is the best of times and the worst of times. Free Meek Mill.