Pharrell Williams, Oprah Interview; 11 Best Moments and Quotes from the Chat with Queen of Media and 'Happy' Singer; Explains Why Helen Lasichanh, Son Rocket's Name and More [VIDEO]
Pharrell Williams, arguably the most successful man in music over the past year, finally sat down with Oprah Winfrey for an exclusive hour-long interview in the latest episode of Oprah Prime. In his New York City loft, the reserved producer discussed everything from his upbringing, to his musical controversy and how he and his wife met, for the first time.
In true Oprah-fashion, their enlightening conversation moved Pharrell to tears. The once outcast Virginia Beach native often emphasized his life and success were not an accident. Throughout the interview, it became obvious that Williams' mind operates on a unique plateau, in which most will not be able to grasp without reading The Alchemist or actually listening to the words of his music.
Winfrey was able to portray a side of Williams that showed a 41-year-old man who is humbled by all of the success he has accomplished, is still working to accomplish, and has yet to even dream of. He is also a man who is madly in love with his wife, and that is pretty awesome in itself.
Here are the Best moments from Pharrell's Oprah Prime Interview.
1) "I could just be a guy with the demo but for whatever reason, the people hoisted me so high that I know what the top of the clouds look like."
Pharrell loves his fans and often accredited his success to everyone but himself. He mentioned his teachers, his grandmothers, a number of various people along the way, and his female fans as the people who saw something in him and moved him to the level of stardom he currently enjoys. His shy upbringing as a musical talent from Virginia Beach created his endearing humility. Now, the very same people who made him feel like he did not fit in are singing his praises for standing out.
10) "In the same way the Indians name their children after spirits... We named him after a man made machine that his meant to ascend."
Williams and Lasichanh are the parents of 5-year-old Rocket Ayers Williams. At first, many fans did not understand the reasoning behind why they named him that, besides the fact that it is a cool name, but in true Pharrell fashion, it had a hidden and soulful meaning. In addition to the explanation above, the name Rocket is also a nod to some of his favorite music, including Rocket Love by Stevie Wonder, Elton John's Rocket Man and Herbie Hancock's Rockit. His middle name, Ayers, is after another one of his favorite artists, Roy Ayers.
11) "The height that the people have lifted me to... only puts an exclamation behind me understanding my purpose."
One thing is for sure, Pharrell is just as humble as we all thought in the beginning. Oprah later tweeted that it was one of her favorite interviews, and if you did not see it, we suggest you watch the re-air next Sunday at 9pm, on OWN. When Oprah says it's good, you have to believe her.
Or, you can try and watch it at the link, here. If you have not already, purchase Pharrell's album G I R L on iTunes now.