Lakecia Benjamin on We Dream

Jazz luminary and GRAMMY nominee Lakecia Benjamin has become one of the most electrifying saxophonists on the global stage. Known for her high-energy performances and distinctive sound that blends jazz, funk, hip-hop, and R&B, she has established herself as both a powerful bandleader and an imaginative artist, one widely praised for her expressive tone and bold improvisational style.

Her acclaimed 2023 album Phoenix was hailed by critics as a tour-de-force, the album's focus of resilience and renewal communicated through spiritual depth, rhythmic drive, and richly textured ensemble writing. That same dynamism is as present as ever in her latest release, We Dream, but this time the focus looks outwards: to our relationship with others, community, and humanity as a whole. 

It was an absolute pleasure to invite Lakecia to tell us all about We Dream - the collaborators involved, why looking outwards felt right for this project, and her biggest takeaways from her illustrious career so far...

We Dream has been described as a ‘bright light in a dark space’. Was there anything in particular that inspired that concept?

Absolutely. We’re living through a time where there’s so much division, uncertainty, and fear in the world. I wanted to create something that reminded people of what connects us rather than what separates us. Music has always been a source of healing and hope for me, and this album became a way of imagining a brighter future. We Dream is really an invitation to believe that even in difficult times, we still have the power to create, connect, and move forward together.

The title suggests a collective vision rather than an individual one. What does the “we” in We Dream represent to you?

The “we” is humanity. It’s community. It’s all of us. None of us get through life alone, and none of us achieve our dreams alone. This album is about recognising that our futures are interconnected. When one person succeeds, learns, grows, or creates, it has the potential to uplift others. The title reflects my belief that dreaming isn’t just an individual act — it’s something we do together.

How does We Dream build on or differ from your previous record, Phoenix?

Phoenix was very personal. It was about resilience, overcoming obstacles, and finding strength after loss and hardship. We Dream expands that perspective outward. It still comes from my personal experiences, but it asks bigger questions about humanity, possibility, and collective hope. Musically, it’s also broader in scope. There are more collaborations, more textures, and more opportunities for dialogue between different voices.

Can you tell us a little about the collaborators on this album, and what each of them brought to the project?

I feel incredibly fortunate to have so many artists I deeply admire on this record. Terence Blanchard brought wisdom, depth, and a powerful sense of storytelling. Hiromi brought her fearless creativity and boundless energy. Chris Potter’s musical voice is unmistakable - his presence elevates everything around him. Bilal brought soul, vulnerability, and emotional honesty. Tank Ball contributed her unique spirit and perspective. Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah brought vision and a sense of artistic fearlessness. Jeff “Tain” Watts brought incredible power and intensity. Kassa Overall contributed his innovative approach and willingness to push boundaries. Sean Jones brought beauty, clarity, and heart. Every guest helped shape the album in a meaningful way.

How did you approach the composition and writing process for this record?

Many of the compositions began with ideas that reflected specific emotions, experiences, or questions I was wrestling with. Some pieces started at the piano, some on saxophone, and some as concepts before any notes were written. I wanted each composition to have a strong emotional center while still leaving room for the musicians to bring their own voices into the music. Collaboration was an important part of the process from the beginning.

Your music draws on jazz, funk, hip-hop and R&B – where does that blend of influences come from, and how do you balance those different elements when writing?

Those influences are simply part of who I am. I grew up listening to a wide range of music, and I’ve never felt the need to separate those influences into different categories. Jazz taught me about improvisation and conversation. Hip-hop taught me about rhythm, storytelling, and authenticity. R&B taught me about melody and emotion. Funk taught me about groove and connection. When I’m writing, I don’t think about genres - I think about serving the music and telling the story honestly.

Did you face any particular challenges while making this record, or did the album evolve in ways you hadn’t anticipated when you started?

Like any meaningful project, there were challenges. Balancing touring, composing, recording, and everyday life requires patience and perseverance. But one of the beautiful things about this album is that it became larger than my original vision. The collaborations, the conversations, and the creative exchanges all pushed the music in directions I couldn’t have fully predicted when I began.

What do you hope listeners take away from the album after the release?

I hope listeners feel inspired. I hope they feel hopeful. I hope they feel connected—to themselves, to one another, and to the possibility of a better future. More than anything, I hope the music reminds people that even during difficult times, we can still dream, create, and move forward together.

You’ve become one of the most visible and influential voices in contemporary jazz. Looking back on your career so far, what have been some of your biggest lessons or takeaways?

One of the biggest lessons has been the importance of authenticity. The more I’ve trusted my own voice, the more meaningful the music has become. I’ve also learned that mentorship, community, and generosity matter just as much as talent. No one succeeds alone. I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible artists, and I try to carry those lessons forward by supporting others whenever I can.

Is there anything you’ve been listening to recently that has inspired you or that you’re particularly enjoying?

I’m always listening to a wide variety of music. I still return to artists like John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, and Herbie Hancock, but I’m also constantly discovering new voices across different genres. I enjoy music that challenges me, surprises me, and reminds me there’s always more to learn.

Aja Monet's new album is one I have been loving, too.

Any upcoming performances we should know about?

I’m excited to be bringing music from We Dream to audiences around the world. Every performance is an opportunity to continue the conversation that began with the album. We have some really big shows coming up at Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall, Ronnie Scott's, and Jazz a Vienne … I encourage everyone to check my website and social media for the latest tour dates and upcoming performances.

We Dream is available now from Artwork Records.