Nile Rodgers reveals the moment he realized "Let's Dance" with David Bowie was a hit success.
In the heart of 1983, a musical collaboration that would leave an indelible mark on the music industry took place. The lead single from David Bowie's album of the same name, 'Let's Dance,' was born.
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) has recently made available an intriguing interview with Nile Rodgers, shedding light on his working relationship with the iconic David Bowie and the creation of 'Let's Dance.'
The story begins at Queen's Mountain Studios in Montreux, where Rodgers brought together a group of talented musicians for the demo recording of 'Let's Dance.' Among them were the renowned jazz musicians David Sanborn, Stan Harrison, and Michael Brecker.
Initially, Rodgers was unsure about Bowie's idea for 'Let's Dance,' suspecting it might be a test. However, the musicians he consulted assured him that Bowie was sincere in his belief that the song was a hit.
The arrangement for 'Let's Dance' was simple yet powerful, featuring two guitars, drums, and bass. Rodgers was confident that the best was yet to come when his own band played the arrangement.
During the demo session, a distinctive rhythm played on the drums caught Rodgers' attention. This 'dominant pyramid thing' made him believe that 'Let's Dance' was a smash hit in the making.
However, 'Let's Dance' was originally a different version from the hit we know today. Rodgers, coming from a dance music background, asked Bowie if he could arrange the song to suit his style. Bowie agreed, and Rodgers instructed him to sing the same as he did in Rodgers' bedroom over the new arrangement.
Bowie was pleased with what he heard from the session players, and Rodgers played the arrangement for Bowie for the first time during the recording studio session. The moment was significant, marking the start of a successful partnership that would result in a timeless classic.
Interestingly, Rodgers initially heard 'Let's Dance' played on a 12-string guitar with only six strings. This unusual setup added to the song's unique charm.
The new David Bowie Centre at the V&A East's Storehouse now houses a collection of Bowie-related artefacts, including pieces from the 'Let's Dance' era. This centre serves as a testament to the enduring impact of Bowie's music and his collaboration with Nile Rodgers.
In an era where R&B met funk met dance music, 'Let's Dance' was a perfect fit. Bowie's original idea for the song didn't align with this zeitgeist, but with Rodgers' input, it became a global sensation.
The story of 'Let's Dance' is a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative effect it can have on music. It continues to inspire musicians and fans alike, standing the test of time as a symbol of innovation and creativity in the music industry.
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