Big Sean is gearing up for a major performance on Oct. 24 as part of “Amazon Music Live,” a unique series that merges football and music, airing after Thursday Night Football. The Detroit native is gearing up to perform hits from his extensive catalog, along with some brand-new tracks. “Oh, man. It just feels like a fun experience. I saw them when they did it last year, and I was like, ‘Dang. I wanna do that,’” he says. Reflecting on his growth as an artist, Sean is eager to share new music and timeless hits from his catalog, promising a dynamic and unique show. “Fans can expect just a very quality show and maybe a couple of surprises,” he teases.

In addition to the music, Sean’s performance will pay tribute to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), a cause close to his heart. He’s set to perform alongside the Blue and Gold Marching Machine and The Fellowship Gospel Choir from North Carolina A&T, nodding to the spirit of HBCU Homecoming. Sean’s family has deep ties to these institutions. “HBCUs are a huge part of my upbringing. My uncle went to Howard. A lot of family members went to different HBCUs, and I went on an HBCU tour myself when I was looking for colleges, and ever since I decided to go into music, I’ve had tons of support from them,” he says. Reflecting on his Detroit roots and the city’s contributions to art and music, Sean adds, “Detroit is such an artistic fountain, and it only makes sense that the only design HBCU school is in Detroit.” For Sean, this performance is more than just a show—it’s a heartfelt homage to the communities and experiences that have shaped him.

Beyond “AML,” the 36-year-old has been busy with music and personal projects. His recently released sixth studio album, Better Me Than You, is deeply rooted in his emotional journey. “The inspiration behind the album was life happening,” he tells BET. The album’s structure revolves around four central emotions – pressure, clarity, focus, and happiness. Each track captures these feelings through mood-driven soundscapes, offering listeners a fully immersive experience. Sean explains that the project allowed him to collaborate with producers and artists he had never worked with, including Leon Thomas, Kaytranada, and Thundercat. 

“It was a fun project to make, and I was very aware and conscious of what I was doing,” he says, noting that, unlike past albums, he wasn’t distracted during the creative process. “There are some albums I made where I was just not as conscious or touring while making it or high. But with this one, I was just clear-minded, focused, and locked in,” he continues. “I’m really proud of myself because I really said what I wanted to say out here clearly. It isn't like a super duper deep album, but it's an album that has a lot of meaning to me.” 

While working on the album, Sean also wrote Go Higher, a book he describes as a way to give back and share his gathered wisdom. “I took on more than I could chew at first, but I did get them done,” he says, reflecting on juggling both projects. The book, set to be released on January 25, 2025, was inspired by a conversation with his friend Jay Shetty, who encouraged him to share his journey. Sean explains that the book touches on meditation, mindset, and preparing for life’s challenges, particularly for those who feel destined for more but aren’t sure how to achieve it. Like his album, the book is filled with intention, offering readers insight into how he navigated his way to success.

Now, with Better Me Than You out, the chart-topping rapper prepares for a tour to promote the album. This will be his first tour in years, as COVID-19 disrupted his plans to perform after his last release. The pandemic put his touring on hold and gave him time to focus on fatherhood. Sean, who welcomed his first child, a son, with longtime girlfriend Jhené Aiko, in 2022, describes being a dad as “the most impactful” and “the coolest thing” he’s ever experienced. “It takes a village,” he says, thankful for the love and support he’s received from those around him. While parenting has challenges, Sean admits it has given him a profound sense of purpose and joy. “It may take a lot of energy, but it gives me so much more. It’s worth it a hundred times over.” He notes that fatherhood has deeply influenced his personal life and creative process, adding even more depth to his music.