Lessons Learned
Stacy Peralta on instinct, inspiration and screwing up
Lessons Learned — To mark the premiere of his new documentary on surfing giant Gerry Lopez, the filmmaker and former pro skateboarder sits down to share his unique brand of creative wisdom.
Written by: Liz Seabrook
Seun Kuti is continuing a political and musical legacy
The Egypt 80 band member and youngest son of legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti reflects on following in his father’s footsteps and why love isn’t about ownership.
Written by: Jeremy Allen
Sharon Van Etten on love, loss and doing the unexpected
The singer-songwriter discusses her intimate new project and the advice she’s picked up across a career as one of rock’s leading voices.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
Mahalia isn’t afraid to be brutally honest
From tapping into her roots and keeping an open mind, the singer shares the wisdom she’s gained through her career and while making her latest record.
Written by: Rhys Thomas
Don Letts on resilience, revolution and staying DIY
The polymathic pioneer reflects on a life embedded in UK subculture – from arguments with Bob Marley, to connecting the dots between punk and reggae.
Written by: Jeremy Allen
Electronic pioneer Richard Pinhas on life and legacy
The Heldon founder reflects on his journey – from lending Jimi Hendrix guitar strings as a teenager, to performing six shows a week in his 70s.
Written by: Jeremy Allen
Gudrun Gut on a life at the centre of Berlin subculture
Lessons Learned — The musician, DJ and founder of Monika Enterprise reflects on a career defined by revolution and rule-breaking.
Written by: Jeremy Allen
Julien Baker is embracing a slower pace
Lessons Learned — The 25-year-old artist has followed up a period of prolonged introspection with her most expansive work yet – a collection of songs that accept the messiness of modern life in all of its various facets.
Written by: Niall Flynn
Chuck D on his tried and tested guide to resistance
Lessons Learned — The hip hop legend shares what he’s picked up after almost four decades spent speaking truth to power – explaining why, at 60 years old, he believes it’s time for a new generation to set the pace.
Written by: Niall Flynn
Author and musician Rita Indiana on how to stay fearless
Lessons Learned — Over the years, Indiana’s penchant for pushing boundaries has presented challenges. But, with the right mindset, they’re hurdles she’s always managed to clear.
Written by: Kate Goh
The Psychedelic Furs look back on a wild and eclectic career
Lessons Learned — With the world at their feet, the post-punk band stepped away from the limelight. Almost three decades later, they’re back with a new album – and memories to boot.
Written by: Jeremy Allen l
A sermon on creativity with Werner Herzog
Lessons Learned — At 77 years old, the great German auteur has no plans to slow down. To mark the digital release of his latest film – a fictional tale about a real-life rent-an-actor company – he shares the secrets to his longevity.
Written by: Shelley Jones