In his latest curated playlist, Raf (@movementsthroughtime_) fuses Jazz Funk with Spiritual Jazz, blending the groove of funk with the soul-searching depths of spiritual sounds. This playlist is more than just music—it’s a journey through lush, vibrant tracks that balance electric energy with meditative undertones. Raf draws inspiration from the likes of Donald Byrd, Pharoah Sanders, Roy Ayers, and Grover Washington Jr., weaving together compositions that feel both smooth and dynamic. With lush instrumentation and atmospheric vibes, this collection is made for those moments when you need to unwind and dive deep into introspection.
When you dive into a groove like Jazz Funk or Spiritual Jazz, what’s the first thing that grabs you? Is it the rhythm, the soul, or something more elusive that sparks your creativity?
“For me, it’s always the soul that hits first. Growing up in NYC, where rhythm and life move together, I’ve always been drawn to that underlying pulse that makes you feel something deeper. But it’s also the space between the notes—the silence or tension that pulls me in. It’s elusive, like walking down a street and suddenly catching a scent that reminds you of something buried in your memories. That’s when the creativity sparks, when the music creates an emotional landscape for me to explore.”
You’ve curated a mix of electric and introspective tracks in this playlist. How do these contrasting energies influence your creative flow?
“Absolutely. I think living in LA now, I find myself balancing both energies in my daily life—there’s the vibrant, electric energy of the city, but also these quiet moments where I retreat into my own space. This blend pushes my creativity in unpredictable ways, much like photography or dancing does for me. When I’m behind the camera or cooking, I’m always looking for that balance between chaos and stillness, just like when I’m mixing tracks. The electric keeps me pushing forward, while the introspective moments allow me to reflect and adapt, like capturing a fleeting moment on film.”
When you listen to legends like Pharoah Sanders or Roy Ayers, what elements of their music do you pull into your own creative process?
“What I love about artists like Pharoah Sanders and Roy Ayers is their ability to transcend the boundaries of genre. They create something that’s not just music but a spiritual experience. Pharoah’s way of using sound to reach something higher speaks to my upbringing in NYC, where music wasn’t just background noise—it was a way to survive and thrive. Ayers, with his blend of funk and jazz, reminds me to embrace joy and rhythm in everything I do. Whether I’m cooking a meal or planning a photo shoot, I try to pull in that same sense of freedom and connection to something bigger than myself.”
The tracks you’ve chosen have a way of drawing listeners into an almost meditative state. How important is that introspective quality for you in music?
“Introspection in music is vital for me. There was a moment back when I was DJing for Boundless Radio that I realized how powerful it was to create a space for people to just exist in the sound. It’s like creating a moment where the listener can breathe and reflect, which is something I cherish in my own life, whether it’s in the kitchen, taking photos, or dancing. I remember playing Alice Coltrane’s Journey in Satchidananda, and something clicked. It felt like the music was carrying me and the listeners to a higher plane of thought. That’s when I knew the power of introspective music—it lets you disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself.”
This playlist is perfect for unwinding and introspective moments. How does music shape those moments for you personally?
“Music has always been a tool for reflection, especially now that I’m in LA. It gives me the space to think about where I’ve been and where I’m going. But at the same time, it surprises me. Sometimes I’ll start listening with one mood in mind and end up somewhere completely different—just like how a photography session or cooking experiment can take a turn you didn’t expect. That’s the beauty of it, though. Music, much like the city itself, is both grounding and expansive, allowing me to feel rooted but also capable of drifting into new creative spaces.”
And if you’re vibing with Raf’s playlist, you’ll want to check out his radio station, Boundless Radio, on SoundCloud. It’s a mix of deep cuts and unexpected gems that will keep your creative energy flowing. Tune in at Boundless Radio on SoundCloud and let Raf take you on a journey beyond the ordinary.
And don’t forget to dive into TNA Playlist Vol. 6 on Spotify, curated by Raf himself. It’s the perfect backdrop for those creative moments when you need a soundtrack that keeps you grounded yet inspired. Make sure to download, listen, and share your vibe on IG. Tag us while you’re at it, and let the music fuel your creativity.
Comments