In a recent interview with PEOPLE, New Orleans native Anders Osborne opens up about the inspiration behind his new single 'Bewildered' and the profound moments that shape his perspective. The music video for the song, premiering exclusively on PEOPLE, captures four decades of civil unrest, offering a powerful narrative that prompts reflection on the current state of the world.
Osborne recounts a chance encounter on a New York street corner that became a defining moment for the music video. As he strummed his guitar, an eccentric man donning shorts in freezing temperatures sat next to him and began jamming along. It was an unexpected and delightful interaction that perfectly captured the essence of an authentic New York moment.
'Bewildered' serves as a reminder that despite the rapid changes happening around us, certain aspects of life remain constant. Osborne reflects on the duality of existence, where love and fear continue to drive societal movements and individual struggles. Forty years later, Osborne marvels at how little has changed, and through his lyrics, he attempts to make sense of this perpetual cycle.
While the song's theme might seem melancholic, Osborne deliberately infuses it with hope and resilience. He acknowledges that assigning blame to anyone would be futile, as this is the inevitable human condition. The desire and suffering that propel us forward will forever coexist. Osborne emphasizes the importance of perseverance even in the face of pain, with the belief that most of us find the strength to navigate through life's trials.
Having experienced his own battles with addiction, Osborne recognizes the need to take occasional breaks from the overwhelming chaos of the world. He humorously admits to entering a 'coma state' a couple of times each month when he desires a break from feeling and thinking. This self-awareness and acceptance of personal limits come with age, as Osborne acknowledges that it's impossible to engage with everything or fight every battle.
Growing older has brought Osborne an appreciation for the smallest moments of beauty that often go unnoticed. He finds solace in practicing mindfulness during his walks, where he pays attention to the simple act of breathing. Observing his own breath reminds him of the wonder and complexity of existence. How can something as automatic and unconscious as breathing sustain life? This realization leaves him in awe.
Nature, particularly the majestic presence of trees, also provides Osborne with a sense of serenity. He marvels at their meditative qualities, their ability to stand rooted in one place for centuries, enduring the harshest weather conditions and adapting to survive. Witnessing the intelligence exhibited by trees is a humbling experience for Osborne, serving as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Embracing this profound connection with the world and finding comfort in his own skin has allowed Osborne to navigate life's discomfort with ease. He revels in the ability to remain steady amidst the chaos, finding solace in the knowledge that he can thrive even in uncomfortable circumstances. This sense of stability and self-assurance brings him immense joy and contentment.
As Osborne prepares to release his upcoming album, 'Picasso's Villa,' on April 26th, his reflective mindset and ability to find beauty in the simplest moments shine through in his music. With 'Bewildered,' he encourages listeners to contemplate the cyclical nature of life, emphasizing the importance of love and the courage to face life's challenges head-on. Through Osborne's journey and musical offerings, we are reminded of the power of resilience, acceptance, and finding beauty in the midst of chaos.
