Devon Gilfillian, the artist hailing from Philadelphia but now based in Nashville, has recently unveiled his latest album, Time Will Tell, a deeply personal collection that reflects on life’s tumultuous journey. Following significant events in his life—including his father’s heart attack and the end of a romantic relationship—Gilfillian has poured these experiences into his music, crafting a record that speaks to both heartache and gratitude.
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In an interview with PEOPLE, Gilfillian described this new work as an authentic reflection of his emotions during a challenging period. “It was a time of real introspection,” he explained, noting that the album captures his thoughts surrounding his father’s recovery from a near-fatal heart attack, as well as his insights about the transient nature of life. The artist poignantly commented on the limited time we have with loved ones, stating, “It’s not that much.”
The narrative throughout Time Will Tell is twofold: one part expresses personal sorrow, while the other part celebrates resilience and hope. Gilfillian consciously chose not to create a typical breakup album filled with blame. Instead, he approached his past relationship with accountability, seeking to understand his own role in the dynamics they shared. “It takes two to tango,” he reflects, alluding to the complexities of their codependent relationship.
Creating this level of honesty, however, has not been without discomfort. Gilfillian braced himself for the possibility that his former partner may hear the intimate details captured within his lyrics. He admitted to feeling uneasy about the prospect, wanting her to know that his expressions were not meant to diminish her or their shared experiences. “I hope she knows that I’m grateful for that time we spent together and that it was time spent learning how to love,” he added.
Among the standout tracks, “Let’s Stop F—ing Around” addresses the frustration that comes with seeking clarity in relationships, while “Moonflower” encapsulates a subtler pain—loving someone whose differences can hinder a genuine connection. The artist hopes that listeners can find a sense of appreciation within these stories, regardless of the challenges faced.
Another weighty theme woven into the album is the reality of mortality. Gilfillian faced his father’s major health scare head-on, which forced him to reassess the fragility of time spent with loved ones. This realisation has profoundly shaped his perspective on relationships. “How do we soak in the time that we get with them as much as we can?” he pondered, recognizing that gratitude for shared moments expands with such experiences.
In creating Time Will Tell, Gilfillian has also embraced a new sense of independence. Having taken on the role of producer for the album, he felt ready to guide his own sound. Drawing from the Philadelphia soul that shaped his upbringing and the musical influences he encountered in Nashville, he has successfully crafted a distinctive sound that defies conventional genre boundaries.
The album exemplifies the seamless blend of influences from both cities. Gilfillian articulated that rather than feeling like two opposing identities, his roots in Philly and his experiences in Nashville nourished his growth as an artist. He observed, “Nashville was almost like an incubator,” allowing him to integrate and evolve his musical style.
The result is an album that navigates various genres—neither strictly R&B nor clearly Americana or country. Through warm arrangements paired with impactful lyrics, Time Will Tell tackles universal themes and heartfelt emotions. Gilfillian suggested that music possesses an intrinsic ability to convey complex messages, noting, “Music has this power… your heart syncs up to the pace of the music.”
Ultimately, Time Will Tell serves as both a testament to Gilfillian’s growth as an artist and a reflection of his journey through change and vulnerability. Accepting one’s flaws and using them as catalysts for evolution is at the album’s heart. Gilfillian firmly believes that one must continue to evolve, stating simply, “You have to keep evolving.”
Fans can listen to Time Will Tell across all major streaming platforms, where they will find an artist who has harnessed life’s challenges and transformed them into a resonant musical experience.