The Making Of "Happy Birthday" & "That Girl"
The Vision Behind the Sound
One of the key elements Bill highlights is the use of vocoders, which were relatively new at the time. Stevie's idea to run a vocoder into the Prophet 10 synthesizer was an innovative approach that opened up a world of possibilities. Bill explains how vocoders work and how they were used in "Happy Birthday" to create the unique quality of the sound.
Another crucial piece of equipment was the Prophet 10 synthesizer itself. Bill describes it as two Prophet 5s in one unit, with two keyboards and stereo output. This allowed for greater flexibility and control over the sound creation process.
Early Use Of The Drum Machine
The use of the Lyn LM-1 drum machine was also essential in creating the rhythm and groove of the song. Bill explains how Stevie programmed the beat on the LM-1 and how they used two vocoders to create a stereo effect, sending different sounds to each side of the stereo field.
Stevie's Innovative Use Of Sampling In Music
Bill also shares some interesting details about the sampling process, particularly the use of the Computer Music Melodian, the first sampler ever made. He describes the challenges they faced in sampling the bass line and the late-night call to Harry Mendel, the creator of the Melodian, to troubleshoot a glitch.
Conclusion
Overall, Bill's blog post provides a comprehensive and insightful look at the technical aspects of programming synthesizers for "Happy Birthday." He shares his expertise and passion for music with the reader, making the blog post both informative and engaging.
Here are some links to the gear that Bill speaks about:
The dreamy soundscape of Soul Prophet makes new way for Jay Dee-inspired music on “Back To Dilla”. Featuring vocals from UK soul legend Omar and with lush layers of synths, flute and tabla, this tribute is s soulful Dilla homage like none other. Now available as a 7" single here at Juno.
Below, Soul Prophet demonstrates his futuristic groove once again as he makes a classic by Stevie Wonder become the life of the party.
written by : Karl Benton & Omar Lye-Fook
Keyboards & Production by Soul Prophet
Flute by Nathan Haines
Scratching by Scizzorhands
Mixed by Jason Eli
Mastered by Jasper Ward at Air Studios, London
Below, Athens In The North dig in the crates as usual for a gem. This one is a funkier version of Stevie's "Rocket Love" by Wendell Harrison.
With 4 decades in lending his bass to the likes of Roy Ayers Ubiquity, Flora Purim, George Duke and others, Byron Miller remains funky as ever. Let the groovy sounds of this psycho bassist hydrate your mind on the 3rd edition of his series. The passion for music is real especially on "Real Love", a slow-grooving gem featuring Stevie Wonder on harmonica and Walter Beasley on sax. Kick back as Byron gives you numerous reasons to keep your ass at home. This is music to help you look forward to better days as you enjoy the best in Funk and Soul.
Enjoy, get the single here at Apple and check out their cover of a Stevie Wonder classic below.
Stream more stellar music as the Martin Miller Session Band honor some of the best songs of music history here at Amazon.
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