It’s been a great start to 2014 for Pharrell Williams. The famous singer/producer was recently in the headlines for his infamous Grammy’s hat, which he’s now auctioning off for charity. His song “Happy,” which he recorded for the Despicable Me 2 soundtrack, just hit No. 1 on the Billboard chart and this Sunday he’ll perform the nominated “Best Song” at the Oscars.
Currently Pharrell is busy at rehearsals for the big night, alongside nominees Idina Menzel (for Frozen’s “Let It Go”), Karen O, (for Her‘s “The Moon Song”), and U2 (for Mandela‘s “Ordinary Love”). When asked what it’s like to perform at the Oscars, Pharrell responded, “all I care about is the fun.”
As I prepare for my #Oscars performance on Sunday, I can't help but think of everyone who worked on the Happy video. @wearefromLA
— Pharrell Williams (@Pharrell) March 1, 2014
Pharrell’s “Happy” knocked Katy Perry from her four-week seat at No. 1 with “Dark Horse.” Although it’s his first solo No. 1, Pharrell’s been on the Billboard charts since 2002’s “Pass the Courvoisier Part II.” He first saw No. 1 with Snoop Dogg in 2004’s “Beautiful” and again last summer in the mega-hit “Blurred Lines.” But this song marks his success as a completely solo artist, which is something Pharrell’s been wanting for decades. He credits his popular “Get Lucky” collaboration with Daft Punk for kickstarting his career again.
“My first album was a dreadful experience…I thought my days as an artist were over. But then Daft Punk and last year happened and it just blew me away and now I’m in an appreciative place and it means more,” Pharrell says. “Working with Daft Punk has been a huge part of the journey to where I am today… I was appreciative when I did it and I’m still appreciative of the chance I was given.”
Can't believe Happy is #1 on @billboard. I am very clear this accomplishment is because of ALL of you. http://t.co/mq0riu7v5d
— Pharrell Williams (@Pharrell) February 28, 2014
This all coincides with Pharrell’s new album release, G I R L, which is out March 3rd and available to stream on iTunes now. The album is reflective of the hit single’s positivity and good vibes. The New York Times calls Pharrell one of the most “transformative music figures of the last year” and says the album is “overwhelmingly positive, cheery in mood and instrumentation, as if Mr. Williams knows something the rest of us do not.” You can watch this “Happy” singer Sunday night on the Oscars on ABC.
Image via Official Facebook Page