We Are the Golden Ones

Released in early 2021 as a precursor and companion to his Grammy-winning full-length 'WE ARE', this EP serves as a bridge between Jon Batiste's late-night bandleader persona and his emergence as a major voice in contemporary social-justice-oriented soul. The record is characterized by its heavy use of choral arrangements and live-recorded energy, particularly on tracks like 'BLACCK' and 'PWWR', which capture the visceral intensity of Batiste's live performances during the 2020 social justice movements. Sonically, it departs from traditional jazz by incorporating hip-hop production elements and gospel-inflected R&B. The inclusion of live tracks emphasizes the artist's roots in communal music-making, positioning the piano as a percussive, driving force rather than just a melodic one. Critics noted the EP's ability to synthesize disparate American genres into a cohesive, high-energy statement on Black identity and resilience.