Anthony Hamilton shares tour news, reflects on D’Angelo, and talks creative freedom on the Garden of Love with Raheem DeVaughn
Anthony Hamilton knows fans want more than a familiar song. They want the feeling that brought them to his music in the first place.
During a backstage interview with The Garden of Love host Raheem DeVaughn in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Hamilton discussed keeping that connection alive. He also shared tour plans with Fantasia, reflected on D’Angelo, and explained why independence has changed his approach to the music business.
DeVaughn opened the conversation by giving Hamilton his “In Full Bloom” roses, recognizing his lasting relationship with audiences. He compared Hamilton’s staying power to the late Frankie Beverly before asking what keeps fans coming back.
For Hamilton, the answer starts with quality music and an honest performance.
“People can’t deny that and they want to feel that feeling again,” Hamilton said. “And I think when you give good energy, you receive good energy.”
He extended that praise to DeVaughn, pointing to the connection between a strong song and an artist who brings their authentic self onstage.
That audience connection continues to create opportunities on the road.
Hamilton said he and Fantasia had spent much of the previous two years touring together. During the conversation, he shared that they had received 30 additional dates for 2027, with October London joining the lineup.
Hamilton welcomed the addition and expressed excitement about performing with Fantasia again.
“People are excited about it,” he said. “I’m excited to go back out, especially with my girl.”
The interview did not include specific venues, show dates, or ticket details.
The conversation also explored Hamilton’s transition from major-label deals to working independently.
Early in his career, Hamilton believed signing with a major label was essential. Over time, his priorities shifted toward ownership and greater control.
“You get to a place to where you feel like you need more ownership,” he explained.
Building a fan base helped make that transition possible. Hamilton said independence now gives him more income and more room to make creative decisions.
“I don’t have so many people telling me who I should be,” he said.
Still, he acknowledged what major labels bring to the table: established relationships and the resources to help push music forward. Working independently means developing those connections himself.
“I’m learning the new buttons and I’m not afraid to push them,” Hamilton said.
One of the interview’s most personal moments came when DeVaughn asked Hamilton about D’Angelo.
Hamilton described his musical presence through comparisons to James Brown, Prince, Sly Stone, Marvin Gaye, and Al Green.
“He was like church,” Hamilton said.
But his connection to D’Angelo went beyond admiration. Hamilton remembered him as both a gifted musician and a friend.
He recalled missing a call from D’Angelo two weeks before his passing. After getting dressed, Hamilton noticed the call and tried to return it, but they did not connect.
The memory brought a personal perspective to his tribute, moving the conversation beyond musical influence to the friendship behind it.
Hamilton also shared some of the artists who inspire his curiosity about future collaborations.
Asked whom he would like to work with, he named Kanye West. Hamilton acknowledged the controversy surrounding West while expressing interest in his creative approach.
“I would love to see what Kanye would write for me,” he said. “How would he produce that?”
Hamilton also praised Jazmine Sullivan, calling her “that next queen” of soul music.
His comments described creative interests rather than confirmed projects.
DeVaughn lightened the conversation by asking about Hamilton’s “lay list,” The Garden of Love’s romantic take on a playlist.
Hamilton named Marvin Gaye, D’Angelo, and DeVaughn among his choices. The exchange led to a playful memory of Hamilton calling DeVaughn late at night to compliment his music.
Before leaving the garden, Hamilton offered a direct message to the listeners who continue supporting him.
“Thank you for every ticket, every show, every repost,” he said. “I really appreciate it.”
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