The renowned UK producer returns to show us that the soul is alive and well.
Benjamin Race is a man on a mission. With his silky-smooth touch for rhythm and the musical ability to bring his artistic visions to life, his releases transport you back to the glitz and glamour of the 1980s, where the sound was warm and glossy.
Celebrated already in his native UK, with every release, Benjamin Race continues to show why he’s one of the most respected producers in his field. As he keeps the essence of 80’s soul alive, his releases should be on every fan of the soul genre’s radar.
From silky electronic percussion to smoky saxophone solos, Race’s releases deliver a sound that resonates with the harmonic subtlety and passion reminiscent of the 80’s hits.
Drawing inspiration from ‘80s rhythm master Jimmy Jam and personal guidance, Race infuses every note with rhythm, nostalgia, and groove. On his latest release, “Memories”, Race also recruits R&B songstress Donna Odain, and after the vocal performance she gave, it’s safe to say that it’s a match made in heaven.
“Memories” isn't just a song – it’s a vibrant homage to a golden era of pop music, skillfully crafted by Benjamin Race and brought to life by Donna Odain’s stellar vocal performance. Gleaming major sevenths, elastic basslines, shimmering chords, and more form the basis of a beautiful instrumental performance. As Odain captivatingly sings lines like “Memories...They're good for one thing / Memories...Never leave you alone / And I want to keep this feeling strong forever I’m bringing ya home”, you’re immersed in Race’s vibrant soundscape. Of course, a release that treats the 80’s sound so reverentially almost demands a throwback video, and with its saturated colors, Miami-Vice era towers, and digital sun, the video for “Memories” definitely lives up to its name.
Benjamin Race’s latest release, “Memories,” is a beautiful and captivating tribute to a golden age of music that might have passed us by but remains in our hearts. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Benjamin Race’s latest release, “Memories,” available now.
Welcome to BUZZ, Benjamin Race! We loved "Memories", what a captivating throwback! What was your favorite part of the creative process for this song?
Being a music producer and songwriter is no different from any other creative person, as many things always inspire me. Leading up to the creation of this single, I received some one-to-one guidance from the legendary Jimmy Jam, part of the American R&B/ Pop songwriting/ production team 'Jam & Lewis' who in 2022 were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. They have written 31 top-ten hits in the U.K., and 41 in the U.S. Jimmy Jam was part of Flyte Time, which later evolved into the Time. They were joined by Morris Day and were Prince's opening act.
Jam & Lewis was later notoriously fired by Prince as they were producing and working with the S.O.S. Band in Atlanta. Because of a snowstorm, they missed their flight from Atlanta to San Antonio. However, one of the tracks they were producing, "Just Be Good to Me," became a hit and sealed the duo's reputation. Jam & Lewis were mentored by the likes of Leon Sylvers III and the legendary Clarence Avant of Tabu Records and later Sussex Records.
'Memories' was inspired by producers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and perhaps Janet Jackson's 'Rhythm Nation' Album. The creative part for me was about the listener now in 2024 being whisked away to an era filled with neon lights, Oberheim synthesizers, drum machines, and the feeling that you were listening to the song on Walkman.
Donna Odain also absolutely knocked it out of the park! We had to know how or when you knew you wanted her to do the vocals for this piece.
Donna is a fantastic vocalist! Donna has worked with Edwin Starr, Martha Reeves, Mary Wilson, Freda Payne & Full Flava. This is also the first partnership with Ricky Hanley, a multi-platinum-selling writer and vocal arranger. Thanks to Ricky, Donna sang on the track as he recommended her (…what a find, hey!?)
Ricky has worked with the likes of Take That, The Pet Shop Boys, Cheryl Cole, S Club Juniors, Peter Andre, Mike & The Mechanics, J.L.S., Little Mix, and Korean boy band E.X.O., plus recently working on The Masked Singer TV show.
What's been the favorite part of your musical journey thus far, and do you have any advice for budding musicians?
In today's musical business climate, success will come by being a 'Hybrid.' What I mean by the shift from professional recording studios to home studios and computers, the move from record label marketing to online social media marketing strategies is that the onus is now on the artist to do everything. So, learning new things and being apt with various skill sets in your toolbox will help you along the way.
What would you want it to be if your fans and listeners could take one thing away from your music?
Do what makes you happy!
What's next for Benjamin Race? Can we expect to hear more new music soon, and is there anything you want to say to your fans?
I am constantly pushing myself in terms of learning every day. Whether it is about becoming a better producer/ mixing engineer, songwriter, or musician and improving my musical network, I always try to grow as a creative person. More music? Certainly..but that's for the following interview!