Meaning:
The quote by Jay Kay, the lead vocalist and frontman of the British band Jamiroquai, provides insight into the creative process behind their music and the influence of their time spent in Los Angeles on their sound. Let's break down the quote and explore the various elements mentioned.
Firstly, Jay Kay mentions spending a month in LA. Los Angeles is known for its vibrant music scene and has been a creative hub for countless artists across different genres. The city's diverse and influential music culture has attracted musicians from around the world, offering them opportunities to collaborate and draw inspiration from the rich musical tapestry that LA has to offer.
During their time in LA, Jamiroquai utilized a pool of musicians. Collaborating with local musicians can bring fresh perspectives and diverse musical styles to the creative process. It allows artists to tap into the talent and creativity of the local music community, often resulting in a fusion of different musical elements that contribute to the unique sound of a song or album.
Additionally, Jay Kay mentions working with a string arranger named Benjamin Wright. String arrangements can add depth, emotion, and sophistication to a song. Wright, a seasoned arranger known for his work with numerous renowned artists, likely brought his expertise to the table, enhancing the sonic landscape of the tracks they were working on in LA.
Furthermore, Jay Kay mentions the involvement of great backing singers. Backing vocalists play a crucial role in providing harmonies, adding layers to the vocal arrangements, and bringing a sense of richness to the overall sound. Their contributions can elevate the music and contribute to the dynamic and polished nature of the final recordings.
In the quote, Jay Kay specifically highlights the impact of these collaborative elements on a track called "Dynamite," which was written during their time in LA. This insight underscores the transformative effect of the environment and the creative collaborations they engaged in while in the city. The "flavour" that he refers to suggests that the experience and contributions of the musicians, arranger, and backing singers in LA significantly influenced the sound and character of the song, giving it a distinct and memorable quality.
In conclusion, Jay Kay's quote offers a glimpse into the collaborative and creative process that shaped Jamiroquai's music during their stay in Los Angeles. The diverse pool of musicians, the expertise of Benjamin Wright, and the involvement of talented backing singers all played a pivotal role in infusing their tracks with a unique "flavour" that reflected the creative energy and influences of their time in LA. This experience not only impacted the specific track "Dynamite" but also likely contributed to the overall sonic evolution of the band during that period.