From Elton John To Dance Floor Battles: 10 Things That Inspired Aloe Blacc's New Album

By Stacy Lambe

March 25, 2014 / 9:00 AM

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Like many You Oughta Know artist, Aloe Blacc finds inspiration in the world around him. Whether it's a plane ride to Switzerland or a classic Elton John, Blacc uses these moments to create hit songs, like "Wake Me Up" with Avicii and "The Man." In an interview with VH1, Blacc explains the stories and ideas behind each of the songs on his new album, Lift Your Spirit.

Some of the stories may surprise you. For instance, the building tempo of "Ticking Bomb" was inspired by Jay Z and Kanye West's song, "Otis," which appeared on Watch the Throne. Blacc liked the way the song exploded with Redding's wailing voice at the end that he wrote his own version of what he heard.

When finished learning about the album, go behind the scenes of the singer's day at VH1. And trust us when we tell you, he's one dapper fellow.

[Photo: Lauren Weissler/VH1]