" When I first heard Thundercat’s stuff, I thought, ‘Man, this is so original.’ A lot of his ballads, to me, had such a beautiful harmonic, almost classically Hispanic, feel or, like, Brazilian kind of feeling. I don’t think he does that intentionally or anything. It’s just I think those are his influences on some level. "
- Michael McDonald

In this statement, Michael McDonald expresses his admiration for Thundercat's unique musical style. He notes that when he first heard Thundercat’s music, he was struck by its originality and distinctiveness. Specifically, McDonald highlights how some of Thundercat's ballads have a harmonic quality reminiscent of classical Hispanic or Brazilian music, suggesting these influences are likely part of Thundercat's personal background or inspiration.

Beyond the surface level appreciation for Thundercat's musical creativity, this quote also touches on the complex interplay between an artist’s influences and their unique voice. Michael McDonald suggests that while these specific tonal qualities might not be a deliberate choice by Thundercat, they still reflect his deep-rooted cultural references and personal tastes. This observation underscores how artists often unconsciously incorporate elements from various musical traditions into their work, creating something uniquely theirs.

The quote is attributed to Michael McDonald, an American singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice and contributions as both a solo artist and a member of the Doobie Brothers. His comments reflect not only his respect for Thundercat’s artistry but also his insights gained from decades in the music industry observing how artists develop their own styles through diverse influences.