Jon Batiste —the multi-instrumentalist who is best known for his role as the leader of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’s house band— has composed all the music and lyrics. In a statement, Batiste said “I want people to leave this show inspired to create. I want them to not only learn about Jean-Michel Basquiat, an innovator, but to also feel the visceral thrill of the creative process and to deepen and discover their own creativity”.
According to a press release, the musical’s producers Alan D. and Barbara Marks have been given exclusive access to Basquiat’s art and archives.
Basquiat’s sisters Jeanine Basquiat and Lisana Basquiat have released a statement regarding the project “Over the years, many people have approached us about telling our brother’s story on stage. But having discussed this project with the Marks over many months, our interest was piqued once we understood that their approach to telling our brother’s story treats his life, his art and his legacy with respect and passion.” They continued “With Jon Batiste and John Doyle leading the creative team, we are thrilled with the possibilities. We cannot wait to begin the developmental process. Broadway is a new world for us, and we looking forward to sharing our brother’s life and art.”
Basquiat passed away at 27 in 1988. He is universally considered one of the greatest artists of his generation. Basquiat achieved his initial success through informal graffiti duo SAMO.
He was the subject of a 1996 biopic, where he was portrayed by Jeffrey Wright who starred alongside David Bowie as Andy Warhol.
