Anderson .Paak Returns To SXSW As DJ Pee .Wee, Reinventing Himself Yet Again

Anderson .Paak may have held a variety of names throughout his ever-growing career, but one title that he’ll always be able to claim is that of a multi-hyphenate. In every iteration of his career, thus far, we’ve witnessed him constantly recreate himself and peel back the layers of his artistic persona. That hasn’t changed as the musician, under his alter-ego DJ Pee .Wee prepares to take the stage at this year’s SXSW at Doritos After Dark in collaboration with Billboard. Taking place at Billboard House during this year’s festival, the pop-up will allow attendees to sample select items while experiencing the California native’s superb DJ skills. The Grammy award-winning artist is excited to return to the annual festival after a five-year hiatus.

“It feels good because I remember my first time doing SXSW; it was a big goal of mine to play at the festival,”.Paak said. “We ended up getting a trophy the year we played, The Grulke Prize given to the best band that plays that year. It’s been over five years since I played it, so I’m excited to be there as DJ Pee .Wee this year.”

While participants will be able to experience the musical greatness of his DJ persona, this wouldn’t be the first time that .Paak has unveiled the many facets of his artistry. Throughout his career, the lyricist has showcased his vast array of skills, from drumming to singing, something he attributes to his dedication to music.

“I’m a student of music, and the more I learn, the bigger vocabulary I’m able to have. All of these things work together because of the knowledge I have of music, which is something that I feel like I’ll never get enough of. I think because I’m a good musician first as a drummer, I’m able to use that as a platform for everything else.”

It’s no secret that the drummer’s ability to reinvent himself has inspired his supporters over the years, but himself as well while helping his creative process.

“I feel like it’s a way to keep me excited, to keep me inspired. I’m really trying to keep learning new things and having new experiences that can help my creative process. Being able to reinvent yourself is a great way not to become too comfortable with doing the same thing over and over again. It also gives my fans an opportunity to be excited about something new to come.”

For those unable to attend .Paak’s electrifying return to SXSW, the cross-disciplinary musician is working on a few projects slated to release this upcoming summer.

“I’m very excited about stepping into a directing role, working on a movie that I wrote that I’ll also be starring in with my son. I’m also excited about the upcoming NxWorries project that I’m working on with my partner Knxwledge. We’ll also be going on a tour this summer that will be sick! DJ Pee .Wee is also something that I’ve been passionate about so I’m excited to be playing more shows for that project.”