Zedd’s ‘Telos’: A Decade in the Making and a Journey of Authenticity
The Long Road to ‘Telos’
The gap between “True Colors” and “Telos” was not simply a hiatus but a period of self-reflection and creative evolution for Zedd. “I’ve enjoyed not putting pressure on myself, and just releasing singles,” Zedd explained. This approach allowed him to explore his musical identity without the constraints of contractual obligations. During these years, Zedd was constantly pondering what he wanted to achieve with his next album. “What am I trying to do, and what am I trying to say?” he asked himself.
The onset of the pandemic offered an unexpected opportunity for Zedd to dive into album production. However, this period was not without its challenges. Despite having ample time, Zedd found himself struggling to create something that felt authentic. He ultimately discarded most of his initial work, keeping only one track, “Dream Brother.” This song, which became a cornerstone of the album, was heavily influenced by Jeff Buckley, an artist who had a profound impact on Zedd. “The whole inspiration behind ‘Dream Brother’ was this artist, Jeff Buckley, that was so hugely inspiring to me,” he said. This track represented a shift towards creating music that was deeply meaningful and personal.
A Collaborative Masterpiece
“Telos” features an impressive roster of collaborators, ranging from rock legends Muse to contemporary artists like John Mayer, Remi Wolf, and Bea Miller. One of the album’s highlights, “1685,” features Muse and serves as a tribute to classical music, specifically Bach’s “The Well-Tempered Clavier.” Zedd described working with Muse and Matt Bellamy as a dream come true. “Muse is an artist who works music this way,” he noted, referring to their innovative approach to classical influences. This collaboration was particularly special to Zedd, who had long admired Muse’s ability to reinterpret classical pieces and make them their own.
The Significance of ‘Telos’
The title “Telos” is derived from ancient Greek and encompasses meanings of both “end” and “goal.” For Zedd, this title reflects the essence of the album and his personal journey. “Telos” symbolizes not only the accomplishment of creating an album that he feels proud of but also the intense challenges he faced during its production. “I felt like I’ve accomplished something that I didn’t know I could accomplish,” Zedd said. The process of creating the album was both exhilarating and exhausting, leading Zedd to lose nearly 20 pounds and experience sleepless nights consumed by his music. This profound experience resonated with the meaning of “Telos,” representing both the culmination of his efforts and the end of a challenging period.
The Evolution of EDM
In discussing the state of EDM, Zedd admitted to a certain detachment from current trends. “I have to admit that I’m not even that in the loop on the state of EDM,” he said. Instead of focusing on following trends, Zedd chose to create an album that felt genuine to him. “I started working on a body of work that to me was completely separate from what the trend of EDM is,” he explained. The album blends organic, orchestral, and electronic elements, reflecting Zedd’s commitment to authenticity over trendiness. He believes that chasing trends is ultimately unfulfilling, as they change too rapidly. “Trends last a shorter period of time than they ever have,” he noted. For Zedd, the goal has always been to create music that resonates with him personally, rather than trying to satisfy every opinion or follow fleeting trends.
Zedd’s approach to “Telos” underscores his dedication to making music that is both meaningful and timeless. The album marks a significant evolution in his career, showcasing his ability to transcend trends and create work that endures. As he continues to forge his own path in the music industry, Zedd remains focused on authenticity and artistic integrity, confident that genuine creativity will resonate with listeners.
“Telos” is not merely a new album for Zedd; it is a testament to his artistic growth and perseverance. The album’s intricate design and heartfelt inspirations represent a major milestone in Zedd’s career, reflecting his commitment to creating music that is both personal and enduring. Through his journey with “Telos,” Zedd has demonstrated his ability to navigate the evolving landscape of EDM while staying true to his unique vision.
