Kylie – Skirt

This track was made for the dance-floor, indicated by the fact that it debuted in Ibiza last night, courtsey of co-writer and DJ Nom De Strip. The intro to ‘Skirt’ certainly sets the tone, and the beat, for the dance-orientated vibes of the rest of the track. Kylie sings a monotone rhythmic verse above heavy synths and ultra-deep wobbling bass that makes the listener feele like they’ve been hit and repeatedly run-over by a bus: the dubstep bus. This feeling build and builds and builds towards towards the chorus, as you hear distinctive Kylie-esque sultry vocals utter what can only described as climaxing sex noises until an almighty drop, leading to yet another drop.

Finally, like a burst of sunlight after being stuck in a dark tunnel, we get to the chorus melody. And what a tune! Both ethereal and sassy, the chorus is a like a breath of fresh of air.

It all calms down for the close, fading away gently…which after the high energy impact of the previous three minutes, leave you inevitably hitting play one more time.

Along with DJ Marcos ‘Nom De Strip’ Lys, the track was also produced by Rihanna and Beyonce hitmaker The Dream (otherwise known as Terius Nash). The new track is expected to be included in Kylie’s forthcoming studio album, though it’s unclear as to whether this is the final cut. As well as The Dream and Nom De Strip, Kylie has also been working with fellow Aussie Sia, Darkchild (aka Rodney Jerkins), Pharrell Williams, Greg Kurstin, Red One and more. Boasting songwriting credits like that, we have a feeling that we will all be hearing a lot of Kylie Minogue this summer.

P.S.

Absolutely no idea why the song is called ‘Skirt’. Didn’t hear Kylie say the word skirt or even any other item of clothing, not once. Answers on a postcard.

 

The Ivors 2013

The Ivor Novello Awards, awarded by a panel of fellow composers and musicians, is probably the most respected and  coveted award for songwriters and producers in the music business.

Emeli Sande’s song ‘Next To Me’ took home the biggest number of gongs of the night, though she wasn’t there to accept in person. The smash hit was awarded Best Song Musically and Lyrically as well as the PRS Award for Most Performed Work, which comes as no surprise considering that her repertoire was played on loop during the run-up to and entire duration of the Olympics. 

Noel Gallagher bagged the Outstanding Song Collection award for his impressive back catalogue of hits from his days in Oasis while Alt-J, already Brit and Mercury award winners for their debut album An Awesome Wave, added a Novello to their collection, taking the best Album award.

The prominence of dance music in the charts was recognised for the first time at the ceremony, awarding Calvin Harris with the prestigious Songwriter Of The Year trophy, who was credited for scoring “the musical soundtrack of 2012”.  Following an unbelievable year for Harris, his album ’18 months’ produced eight top ten singles breaking the record previously set by Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ for the most top ten singles taken from one album. Presenting Harris with the award, Pete Tong, the Radio 1 DJ, said: “Dance music and DJs never believed they belonged in this room before. Now we have a role model.”

You can see a full list of categories and winners here

Interview with Dan Dare

PopSlutz were thrilled to have the opportunity to interview high-flying songwriter/producer Dan Dare.  His impressive production and writing credits include Wiley, Wretch 32,  Juelz Santana, Marina & The Diamonds, Syron and more. Here’s what he had to say on his career so far…

You’ve produced on a huge range of tracks with a wide variety of different artists. What’s your motivation when deciding who to work with and what projects to work on?

Yeah haha I think I’ve covered most genres, being versatile is good but sometimes is better to focus on one thing – I’m just a nutter so can’t keep still. I always work with people who I like, never work with people because they’re hot or have got a name – it has to be genuine.

Loving your latest track with Marina & The Diamonds. What’s the story behind that?

That song started as a demo which we had for ages then Marina came to me and asked me to reproduce it, so I tore it apart a bit kept a few elements. Then Marina got Charli on the song, before that we had verses on it from rappers Wretch 32 & Ghostpoet but wasn’t really a rap track.

What is your creative process when you are working in the studio as a producer or collaboratively  with an artist?

I just sit down and start clicking buttons, get the keyboard out start singing some melodies get a vibe and you’re away . It depends on the artist ,I’m always over-creative and start a million things at once.

You secured your publishing deal with Crown at just 24 years old, what do you think contributed to your success?

Just hard work and lots of learning – networking helps a lot plus knowing the right people – the music industry is all about songs no matter how talented you are which is sad but everyone’s a singer nowadays.

Who are the key members of your support team?

My manager Nick Worthington helps a lot, he’s a really successfull A&R with 679. He signed the Streets, Marina and the Diamonds, Plan B etc. Also his assistant Alex Bean helps a lot, she’s really good and proactive. I live with a singer called Ryan Keen and a writer called Toby Faulkner so we all write a lot together and generally get stuff done.

Where do you take inspiration from when writing and producing music?

Depends on my moods to be honest and the way I’m feeling. I’m heavily influenced by Otis Redding and Ludovico Einaudi – weird combo, but that’s my style, I love to mix it up.

What plans and collaborations have you got in store for the rest of 2013 and beyond?

Well lots of writing with loads of huge names so hopefully the songs are good enough that they get used and we all get rich. Hah!..just playing. Yes lots of collaborations and big plans. You can visit www.dandaremusic.com for lots of updates and songs.

 You can follow Dan Dare on twitter @DanDare & visit www.dandaremusic.com. Check out his latest release with Marina & the Diamonds feat. Charlie XCX ‘Just Desserts’: