will.i.am Honors East LA Roots in New Single with Taboo
LOS ANGELES — Music icon will.i.am is back with a fresh new single — and this time, he’s turning the spotlight on his roots. In a heartfelt conversation with Billboard News, the Grammy-winning artist opened up about the inspiration behind the track and why he chose to partner with fellow Black Eyed Peas member Taboo.
The song celebrates the vibrant culture of East Los Angeles, particularly the Boyle Heights neighborhood where will.i.am was born and raised.
“I wanted to flip that part of the song that says ‘East LA’ and just put it on repeat,” he said, explaining how the track is both a musical homage and a personal statement of identity.
Music with Purpose
According to will.i.am, this single is just the first of three solo albums he plans to release — a creative burst driven in part by the rise of artificial intelligence in music.
“I just wanted to get this music out before people forget what it’s like to hear something made fully by a human,” he shared during the Billboard interview.
In addition to his solo work, new Black Eyed Peas material is also on the way.
Taboo Joins the Journey
The collaboration with Taboo wasn’t just musical — it was cultural. Both artists share deep connections to heritage and activism. Together, they aimed to amplify stories from communities that are often underrepresented, especially during a time when immigration remains a national talking point.
“I grew up with families who are now dealing with anxiety and fear due to immigration policies,” will.i.am said, tying his music to the real-life struggles of people in his hometown.
Giving Back Through Education
Beyond the music, will.i.am is also investing in future generations. After his success with the Black Eyed Peas, he returned to Boyle Heights and launched an after-school program focused on STEM education — including robotics, computer science, and college prep.
“We’ve had thousands of kids graduate — sent them to Dartmouth, Stanford, UCLA, Brown,” he said proudly.
His program continues to prove that opportunity and ambition thrive in every zip code — especially when fueled by community support.
Why It Matters
From sampling Michael Jackson to channeling East LA pride, will.i.am’s latest single isn’t just another summer bop — it’s a tribute to where he came from and a call to honor those building a future from challenging beginnings.
Have Thoughts on the Song?
Let us know how you feel about will.i.am’s new track and message! Share your thoughts at ChicagoMusicGuide.com — and tell us how your roots have shaped your love for music.