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To say that Pharrell’s had a brilliant year would be an understatement. From producing albums to singing on some of the best records of the year, 2013 saw Pharrell at his best. It was revealed yesterday that he’s signed with Columbia Records, and will be releasing a new album in 2014. But before looking ahead, the singer/songwriter/rapper/producer had the opportunity to reflect on the successes this past year brought him during an interview with Stereogum, which is a part of a larger interview series with Stereogum‘s favorite producers of 2013. At one point of the Q&A session, Pharrell was asked which records he loved from this past year but didn’t work on, and while most of his picks were fairly obvious, there were a couple that you may not have expected. Take a look at which musicians and their albums Pharrell named below.
Lorde
Lorde’s album is genius from front to back. Bookend to bookend. Lorde is a phenomenal, phenomenal artist.
Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s album was genius. And I was lucky enough to be a part of it, but his album — aside from my song — is genius in itself. Lyrically, to me, he’s just one of the best. And I think his music picking, the beats that he picks, the choice of songs … he’s got a really great ear.
Drake
I love what Drake did this time around. I think Drake is masterful with his work.
Taylor Swift
I think Taylor Swift has mastered her audience and what it is that she loves to do. You can say whatever you want, but they’re great lyrics, and she knows what her audience wants and she knows that good feeling.
His list also includes Banks (“[She’s] crazy. So good.”), Tyler, The Creator, HAIM, London Grammar, and Pusha T (“[he] is having an amazing year.”). Read the rest of the Stereogum interview here.
