Has Tame Impala sold out? That's the question on many fans' minds as the Australian psych-rock mastermind, Kevin Parker, gears up to release his fifth studio album, Deadbeat. Accusations of going 'commercial' to chase profits have been swirling, but Parker isn't holding back in his response. In a recent interview with Zane Lowe, he tackled the controversy head-on, and his words might just surprise you. But here's where it gets controversial... Parker argues that if he were truly motivated by money, he'd simply replicate his past successes. 'I would know exactly what’s gonna happen,' he explains, referring to the predictable formula for radio-friendly hits. He even goes so far as to say that rehashing tracks like 'Elephant' would guarantee him a spot in every American car commercial. And this is the part most people miss... Parker's artistic evolution, as seen in his 2015 album Currents, was a risky move. By experimenting with drum machines and electronic elements, he stepped into uncharted territory, proving that financial gain isn't his driving force. 'I would just feel defeated if I decided to do the same thing again,' he admits. This sentiment raises a thought-provoking question: Can an artist truly grow while maintaining commercial success, or is it an inherent contradiction? As Tame Impala embarks on a massive 2025/2026 tour across the US, UK, and Europe, fans will have ample opportunity to experience Deadbeat live and form their own opinions. From Brooklyn's Barclays Center to London's O2 Arena, Parker's performances will undoubtedly spark debates about the intersection of art and commerce. Meanwhile, his preview of the trippy techno track 'Not My World' in Mexico City hints at yet another bold creative direction. So, has Tame Impala sold out? The answer, it seems, lies in the ears of the listener. What do you think? Is Parker's evolution a genuine artistic journey, or a calculated move to stay relevant? Let us know in the comments!
