Recording Artist and Actor Saul Williams Speaks Contemplative Words, In-Studio

Soundcheck | Sep 10

Saul Williams is many things. A poet, a musician, an actor, and a writer, embodying multiple forms of art in his existence. He’s the preacher in the Oscar-winning 2025 film, Sinners. He’s the conceiver of several books, including his latest title, Songs My Mother Taught Me: Why the Artist Must Take Sides. And now, after seven long years, Williams is back with a new album called Leap Year, in which he uses his voice in more ways than one. He sings and speaks his contemplative words, often relying on his vocal samples to enrich the production. But in our studio, his solo performance is thoughtful yet subdued, putting his lyricism front and center. Hear those words, and a few others, as Williams shares his inner world with host, John Schaefer. - Sırma Munyar

Setlist: 1.Friends That I Ain't Met Yet 2.Vengeful Spirit 3.Robot Slave

(Photo of Saul Williams by Sam Lee)

Top Stories

Mahmoud Khalil sues Columbia over alleged treatment of pro-Palestinian activists

2026 Fall Schedule Change

The U.K. Sanctions Israeli Settlements

Advice About Giving and Getting Advice

YOU ARE ONLINE