A sterling example of how music can connect people of different mindsets actually manifested behind the scenes during Empire's pre-production. Super- producer Tim “Timbaland” Mosley, a friend of Daniels's who crafts the series' catchy original tracks, wasn't initially aware of the nature of Jamal's storyline, and Daniels recalls some initial discomfort from the beat-master who's worked with everyone from Madonna to Missy Elliot.
“I pitched the pilot to him, and he came back with this
incredible, breathtaking music in 48 hours,” Daniels
says. “And soon it was time for me to show him the
pilot. My instinct told me to leave when Jamal and [his
boyfriend] Michael kiss, so I got up to go to the
bathroom. When I came back, I knew [Timbaland] was
fascinated by seeing his music in the work, but he
said, 'Those guys kissing, man. Wow.' [The comment]
could be construed negatively or positively, so I didn't
push it. I just didn't wanna go there. Again, my instinct
—or maybe my inner child or something—told me not
to.”
When Timbaland's wife and children were also
brought in to to view the premiere episode, Daniels
says that the music maestro asked that his kids step
out of the room during the kissing scene, and Daniels,
claiming to be “in work mode,” opted not to “get into
a political conversation or give an opinion.” Since
then, though, Daniels says that Timbaland, whom he
refers to as a “buddy,” has changed his tune.
I feel like this is gonna go the opposite of how this story planned to do once everyone finds out he used to hate gays.
Aaliyah's personal best friends and co-workers were gay who also died on that plane with her, and he still hates them? Mess TImbo!
I was rooting for you, we were all rooting for you, how dare you!! I loved you and your music, now now that I found out he was homophobic this whole time.... gurlll.
When Timbaland's wife and children were also
brought in to to view the premiere episode, Daniels
says that the music maestro asked that his kids step
out of the room during the kissing scene,
