will.i.am discusses vegan tacos, his new track, and his favorite taco.
the way he throws up old-school ’90s hand signs—snapping his forearms to his chest like he’s still posted up at Estrada Courts.
Our conversation took place at FYI, his modern headquarters in Hollywood, where he hosted an exclusive event honoring East L.A., the newest track and music video with his Peas bandmate, Taboo, while enjoying a spread of Tajin-covered fruit cups, al pastor tacos, refried beans, and orange rice served by a taco lady, along with Jalisco-style vegan nieves de garrafa—a delicate, handmade ice cream traditionally crafted in a large wooden jar.
Will.i.am’s emotional connection to Boyle Heights runs deep, as he reminisces about the tight-knit community that nurtured and encouraged him during his formative years. The OGs in Boyle Heights taught him invaluable lessons and acknowledged his talent, laying the foundation for the multicultural essence of the Black Eyed Peas, a group that resonates more in Mexico than in the United States.
As the conversation transitions to more somber topics like the recent ICE raids targeting Latino communities, will.i.am’s tone shifts from nostalgic to sharp. He expresses concern over the hate-filled undertones of these actions, viewing them as a deliberate move towards incarceration or detention camps, driven by profit-seeking motives. To him, the tactics employed during these raids echo those seen in developing nations, evoking a grim comparison to third-world practices.
His latest song serves as a direct response to the current socio-political climate, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of East L.A. and paying homage to the individuals and landmarks that shaped his upbringing. The music video, with visually striking scenes in front of the iconic but now shuttered Boyle Heights Sears building, showcases the personal connection he holds with the neighborhood that shaped his identity.
The video is a space for Taboo as well to explore and celebrate his Indigenous roots, shedding light on his Shoshone, Hopi, and Mexicano heritage. Together, as members of the Black Eyed Peas, they have always advocated for social justice issues and used their platform to raise awareness on pressing matters affecting marginalized communities.
When it comes to favorite tacos, will.i.am’s vegan diet has shifted his preferences towards plant-based options. While he reminisces about classic chicken tacos, his current go-to spot for a flavorful vegan taco is Doomie’s Home Cookin’. Meanwhile, Taboo stays loyal to his roots, favoring the burrito with carne asada from King Taco, a community favorite known for its authentic flavors and traditions.
In conclusion, the bond between will.i.am and Taboo with East L.A. isn’t just about music—it’s a celebration of heritage, culture, and community spirit that continues to influence their art and activism. Their commitment to representing where they come from and shedding light on pressing issues makes their music more than just entertainment—it becomes a powerful tool for social change and cultural preservation.