Big Money - Jon Batiste
Jon Batiste, the multi-GRAMMY® and Academy Award® winner, has just released his highly anticipated ninth studio album, Big Money, available now. The album marks a bold evolution in his sound, blending his gospel roots, New Orleans heritage, and modern pop sensibilities into a collection of tracks.
The album’s title track, “Big Money,” sets the tone with its groove-heavy anthem, a celebration of ambition that doubles as a critique of greed. As Batiste explains, the track is “soaked in irony.” “Don’t be a dummy, everybody chasing that big money,” he croons, reflecting on society’s obsession with wealth. Big Money is a full-throttle, gospel-drenched exploration of ambition and the price we pay to chase the almighty dollar. Forget the buttoned-up, safe artist mold. Big Money is as raw as it gets—Batiste effortlessly takes listeners from smoky jazz bars to reggae-infused dance floors within a single song, all while offering wisdom on life and love.
Following the album’s release, Batiste unveiled “Lean on My Love,” a collaboration with powerhouse vocalist Andra Day. The soulful ballad about love and support features Day’s softer-than-usual delivery, which complements Batiste’s gospel-infused style. The accompanying music video, filmed in Altadena, California, serves as a poignant tribute to communities affected by the wildfires.
Batiste and co-producer No ID aimed to create an album that felt unfiltered—instead of a generic overproduced sound, Big Money is raw and stripped down. Incredibly, the album was recorded in just two weeks, with much of it tracked live in single takes, sometimes using only one microphone, with the imperfections only adding to its charm. From soul and reggae to blues and minimalist ballads, the album’s diverse sounds mirror the complexity of its themes, whether exploring love, loss, or a critical examination of ambition.
A standout track, “Lonely Avenue,” features Randy Newman on piano, captured during an impromptu session. The unfiltered performance, recorded on a handheld device, highlights Batiste’s reverence for legends like Ray Charles, with whom he shares a deep musical connection. “Ray is my patron saint,” Batiste reflects. In support of Big Money, Batiste will embark on a U.S. tour beginning August 27, 2025. The Big Money Tour: Jon Batiste Plays America will make stops at over 30 venues, including iconic locations like Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Grand Ole Opry, and a co-headlining show with Diana Ross at The Muny in St. Louis.
Throughout Big Money, Batiste’s collaborations with key figures like No ID (co-producer) and Randy Newman enrich the album. Batiste recalls moments of creative synchronicity with No ID, who was eager to explore new territories. The result is an album that feels like a dialogue between generations.
There is a protest-song style grit together with the pop melodies, gospel traditions and modern sensibilities. Whether invoking ancestral voices on “Pinnacle” or channeling his cosmic alter ego Billy Bob Bo Bob on “Angels,” Batiste doesn’t just make music—he makes statements.
Jon Batiste’s Big Money is an unforgettable celebration of life in all its complexities. Available now, the album, along with the upcoming tour, promises to be an experience for fans around the world.
Watch the official music video for Lean on My Love here.
The album Big Money is available here.
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