Paul McCartney posted a new music video to promote the remix of his 1983 hit single with Michael Jackson "Say, Say, Say," along with an interview where he discusses their collaboration.
"Say, Say, Say" - Paul McCartney & Michael Jackson (2015 Remix)
Paul McCartney on writing with Michael Jackson
In preparation for the release of Pipes of Peace (Deluxe Edition), Sir Paul has just released a new remix of his classic 1983 hit with Michael Jackson, "Say, Say, Say."
Just to name a few of the changes made to the remix, the kick drum has been boosted, the guitar sounds even twangier, and the cymbals have been refreshed. But the most noticeable change to the song is the swapping of different vocal takes. For longtime listeners familiar with the tune, it may be jarring to hear the MJ vocals in place had been Paul's and vice versa. While the update on the instruments may have modernized this 1980s jam, the flip-flopped vocal comping was not as successful.
What was super successful -- was the video itself.
This isn't the first time "Say, Say, Say" has had a truly unique video. The original music video was notable as one of the first to have the music be introduced by dialogue. This daring new facelift on a familiar classic features some amped up, non-stop choreography by its director, Ryan Huffington.
The film is wonderfully shot, seamlessly transitioning from a street scene to a car wash to a backyard, effectively using dance as a method of filmic transportation. Some of the camera work and low angles capturing the groups of dancers were executed quite brilliantly, and the black-and-white aesthetic helps evoke a sense of timelessness. The groups of young dancers whose moves are influenced by the late Prince of Pop help bridge the generational gap in this retro remix.
In the above interview, Paul talks with James Dean Bradfield of Manic Street Preachers about his and Michael's process while writing together on "Say, Say, Say" and "The Man." Paul explains, "[Michael] rang me and said, do you wanna make some hits?'" The interview was filmed right below the office where the song had been written over 30 years earlier. Paul recalls working the song out on piano, but also having the guitar around "to show [Michael] a line or something." Based off Paul's testimony in the video, it seems that the fresh, upbeat quality of "Say, Say, Say" was fueled by their excitement and willingness to collaborate with each other.
Pipes Of Peace (Deluxe Edition) is available on Amazon (Vinyl, CD, MP3).
For Paul McCartney's latest music, news, and tour dates, check out his Zumic artist page.
