Patrice Rushen's "Remind Me" with Patrice Rushen
Digest
This episode of "One Song" features Patrice Rushen, a renowned singer, songwriter, and keyboardist. The podcast delves into the creation and impact of her song "Remind Me," a fan favorite never officially released as a single. Rushen discusses her upbringing and musical influences, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration. She details the organic songwriting process for "Remind Me," including her collaboration with lyricist Karen Evans. The episode then dissects the song's instrumentation, production, and the use of the Rhodes piano, highlighting James Gadson's drum work. The conversation shifts to the song's legacy, its numerous samples and interpolations, and the ethical considerations of sampling. Rushen also discusses the evolution of her career, the resurgence of her catalog, and her relationships with other musicians, including Prince and Stevie Wonder. The podcast includes a fun segment where Rushen quickly answers questions about songs that have influenced her.
Outlines
Introduction to Patrice Rushen and "Remind Me"
The episode introduces Patrice Rushen and her significant contributions to music. The hosts express their admiration for her work and announce their focus on her song "Remind Me," a fan favorite that was never officially released as a single.
Patrice Rushen's Musical Journey and Influences
Rushen discusses her upbringing and musical influences, highlighting the impact of radio, television, and diverse musical exposure on her style. She emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in her musical development.
Songwriting Process for "Remind Me"
Rushen details the organic creation of "Remind Me," emphasizing the interplay between improvisation and structured composition. She describes her collaborative process with lyricist Karen Evans and the evolution of her songwriting approach.
Deconstructing "Remind Me": Instrumentation and Production
The hosts and Rushen dissect the song's instrumental elements, focusing on the Rhodes piano, bass lines, and drum work by James Gadson. They discuss the layering of sounds, the use of synthesizers, and the intentional choices in arrangement.
"Remind Me's" Legacy and Sampling
The conversation shifts to the song's legacy, its numerous samples and interpolations, and Rushen's perspective on the ethical considerations of sampling and the importance of artistic integrity.
Patrice Rushen's Musical Journey and Influences
Patrice Rushen discusses the evolution of her career, the resurgence of her catalog, and the impact of her live performances. She answers questions about songs that have influenced her and shares anecdotes about her friendship with Prince.
"What's One Song?" Game
A fun game segment where Patrice Rushen quickly answers questions about songs that are significant to her, revealing her musical tastes and influences across various genres and artists.
Keywords
Patrice Rushen
American singer, songwriter, keyboardist, and composer known for her smooth jazz and R&B style.
Remind Me
A fan-favorite song by Patrice Rushen, never officially released as a single, which is the central focus of the podcast.
Rhodes Piano
An electric piano featured prominently in "Remind Me," known for its mellow tone.
Musical Collaboration
The importance of collaboration in Rushen's songwriting and production process.
Sampling (in music)
The ethical and creative aspects of sampling in music, discussed in relation to "Remind Me."
Smooth Jazz
The genre that best describes much of Patrice Rushen's music.
James Gadson
Drummer who played on "Remind Me."
Karen Evans
Lyricist who collaborated with Patrice Rushen on "Remind Me."
Prince
Iconic musician and close friend of Patrice Rushen.
Stevie Wonder
Legendary musician who influenced Patrice Rushen.
Q&A
How did the song "Remind Me" begin, and what was the creative process like?
The music came first, a groove developed during practice. Rushen collaborated with lyricist Karen Evans to find words that fit the melody.
What is the significance of the song's legacy, particularly its numerous samples and interpolations?
It demonstrates the enduring power of the music and its ability to resonate with artists across generations. Rushen emphasizes respecting the original work and maintaining artistic integrity when sampling.
What is one song that changed the way Patrice Rushen approached music?
Patrice mentions Brahms' Symphony No. 4, Miles Davis' Sorcerer album, and Herbie Hancock's Speak Like a Child.
What is the significance of Patrice Rushen's relationship with Prince?
They shared a close friendship built on mutual respect for music. Prince even wrote songs inspired by her.
What song does Patrice Rushen wish she had played piano on?
A Stevie Wonder song.
How did your experiences as a woman in a male-dominated industry shape your career?
Rushen highlights the support she received from male colleagues and the focus on skill and talent in her high school's music program.
Show Notes
One Song is closing out our celebration of Black Music Month with award-winning musician and composer Patrice Rushen. Alongside LUXXURY and Diallo, Patrice delves into her musical foundation and creative process that shaped her beloved 1982 classic “Remind Me.”
One Song Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/40SIOpVROmrxTjOtH7Q1yw?si=e2023fe26fc7497a
Songs Discussed:
“Remind Me” - Patrice Rushen
“Forget Me Nots” - Patrice Rushen
“Number One” - Patrice Rushen
“Take Your Time” - Heavy D & the Boyz
“Fallin’ In Love” - Faith Evans
“I Need You Tonight” - Junior M.A.F.I.A.
“Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” - Sly & The Family Stone
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” - Stevie Wonder
“Speak Like A Child” - Herbie Hancock
“As” - Stevie Wonder
“Doing It To Death” - The J.B.’s
“I Feel For You” - Prince
“I Wanna Be Your Lover” - Prince
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