Big Sean and Jhene Aiko appeared together on the latest cover of Flaunt Magazine to promote their joint project Twenty88, which will hit digital retailers (along with the accompanying short film) on April 1st. Click through the image gallery to check out pictures from the photoshoot. For the cover story they delved into the genesis of Twenty88, and their vision for the project. Here are a few excerpts:
On why they wanted to make a joint project:
“Music now doesn’t really cater to the feelings of a real relationship,” says Aiko via Skype from New Zealand where she’s on tour. “It’s all about trapping and bragging. I feel like this project is something that’s needed right now.” Sean nods—he currently sits on a couch in his living room in Hollywood Hills. “The whole idea of the man and woman duet,” Aiko continues, “Especially a whole project, is just good for people to see. That duality is a perfect combination.”
On the concept behind the album, which was mostly recorded at Big Sean's Hollywood Hills residence:
“It’s a ’70s aesthetic, but we’re in the future.” Aiko explains. They draw from various influences—Blaxploitation films like Coffy (1973)—where a smart, strong Pam Grier empowers herself and goes vigilante against organized crime—and Roger Moore’s Bond films—style, luxury, and debonair masculinity are definitive parts of Sean’s undeniable appeal—and even 2015’s sci-fi Ex Machina.
On their relationship:
Chemistry aside, they both insist that they’re single and just enjoying each other’s company. “It was fun for me to do something that was not so serious as far as me telling all of my deepest, darkest thoughts and being extra introspective. I don’t really record love songs. I usually express it when it’s gone bad. It was good to have songs from when it was a happy moment. It’s us having fun. And it’s also a look into our future too, you know, maybe…”