The immediately recognizable saxophone riff from Males at Work’s 1981 hit “Who Can It Be Now?” is a defining factor of the tune’s distinctive sound. Carried out by Greg Ham, this iconic melody, primarily performed on a tenor saxophone, contributes considerably to the tune’s international reputation and enduring legacy. The instrumental break stands out for its power and distinctive phrasing, turning into a key hook that listeners simply recall. The instrument’s timbre and the particular melodic contour create a way of pressure and thriller, completely complementing the lyrical theme of paranoia and surprising guests.
The saxophone solo’s contribution to the tune’s success helped solidify “Who Can It Be Now?” as a defining observe of the early Eighties. It showcases the effectiveness of a powerful melodic hook performed on an instrument not sometimes related to mainstream pop on the time. Using the tenor saxophone helped differentiate the tune from different modern pop hits and added a layer of musical sophistication that resonated with a broad viewers. This distinguished placement of the instrument probably influenced different musicians and contributed to the saxophones resurgence in widespread music in the course of the decade.
Additional exploration of the tune’s musical construction, manufacturing strategies, and cultural influence can present a deeper appreciation for its enduring reputation. Analyzing the interaction between the saxophone melody and the opposite instrumental and lyrical components reveals the skillful craftsmanship that went into creating this iconic observe. Inspecting the tune’s chart efficiency and its continued presence in widespread tradition underscores its significance in music historical past.
1. Greg Ham’s Efficiency
Greg Ham’s saxophone efficiency is inextricably linked to the identification of “Who Can It Be Now?”. His particular phrasing, articulation, and tone are what give the riff its distinctive character. Whereas the underlying melody is essential, Ham’s interpretation elevates it past a easy sequence of notes. His efficiency imbues the melody with a way of urgency and pressure, mirroring the lyrical themes of paranoia and suspicion. Contemplate, as an example, the refined vibrato and bending of notes, which contribute to the unsettling temper. These nuances, particular to Ham’s enjoying type, would probably be absent in one other musician’s rendition, demonstrating his distinctive contribution to the tune’s enduring influence. This efficiency reworked a comparatively easy melody into an iconic hook, demonstrating the ability of particular person artistry to form a tune’s success.
The influence of Ham’s saxophone efficiency extends past its musicality. It grew to become a defining attribute of Males at Work’s sound, contributing to their total success within the early Eighties. The saxophone riff’s reputation, pushed by Ham’s distinctive enjoying, helped propel “Who Can It Be Now?” to worldwide recognition. This widespread enchantment solidified Ham’s standing as a distinguished saxophonist and underscored the instrument’s potential inside mainstream pop music. The riff’s enduring presence in widespread tradition, together with its use in commercials and movie, additional exemplifies the lasting influence of Ham’s contribution. It serves as a case examine in how a single instrumental efficiency can elevate a tune from a catchy tune to a cultural touchstone.
In conclusion, Ham’s saxophone work on “Who Can It Be Now?” is greater than only a memorable riff; it is a essential part of the tune’s identification and lasting influence. His distinctive enjoying type, mixed with the catchy melody, created an immediately recognizable hook that contributed considerably to the tune’s worldwide success. Analyzing Ham’s efficiency offers useful perception into the ability of particular person musicianship to form the cultural panorama and elevate a tune to iconic standing.
2. Tenor Saxophone’s Timbre
The tenor saxophone’s distinct timbre performs an important function within the iconic riff of Males at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”. Its characteristically wealthy, reedy tone contributes considerably to the tune’s total influence. This particular tonal high quality distinguishes the melody from what can be achieved utilizing, as an example, an alto saxophone or a synthesizer. The tenor’s decrease register and barely gruffer sound create a way of thriller and pressure, complementing the lyrical themes of paranoia and the unknown. This cautious choice of instrumentation demonstrates the significance of timbre in shaping a tune’s emotional influence. The tenor’s sonic signature, with its mix of heat and edge, arguably grew to become an important factor within the tune’s broad enchantment, contributing to its enduring recognition throughout generations. One can simply think about how a unique instrumental alternative might need altered the tune’s character and lessened its total impact.
Additional emphasizing the timbre’s significance is the best way it interacts with the tune’s different components. The tenor saxophone’s tone blends seamlessly with the driving rhythm part, making a dynamic and interesting soundscape. Its timbre additionally enhances Colin Hay’s vocal efficiency, including one other layer of depth and texture. The selection of a tenor saxophone, slightly than a brighter-sounding instrument like a trumpet, permits the riff to face out with out overpowering the opposite musical parts. This cautious balancing act contributes to the tune’s cohesiveness and total influence. Think about the riff performed on a unique instrument; the tune’s distinct character would undoubtedly be altered. This highlights the crucial function timbre performs in establishing a tune’s sonic identification.
In conclusion, the tenor saxophone’s distinctive timbre is integral to the lasting influence of “Who Can It Be Now?”. Its distinct tonal high quality, characterised by richness and depth, completely enhances the tune’s lyrical themes and different musical components. This cautious choice of instrumentation highlights the significance of timbre in shaping a tune’s emotional influence and enduring enchantment. The tune serves as a main instance of how the appropriate instrument, performed successfully, can elevate a easy melody to an iconic riff, perpetually etched within the annals of widespread music.
3. Iconic Melody
The long-lasting melody of “Who Can It Be Now?” is inextricably linked to its efficiency on the tenor saxophone. The melody’s easy, but efficient construction lends itself effectively to the instrument’s expressive capabilities. Its rising and falling contour creates a way of each pressure and launch, mirroring the lyrical themes of paranoia and anticipation. The melodic intervals, based totally round stepwise movement with occasional leaps, are simply recognizable and memorable. This mix of simplicity and expressiveness contributes considerably to the melody’s iconic standing. Contemplate how totally different the influence can be if the melody have been considerably extra complicated or carried out on a unique instrument; the fast memorability and emotional influence would probably diminish. This demonstrates the synergistic relationship between melody and instrumentation in creating an enduring impression.
A number of components contribute to the melody’s enduring enchantment. Its repetitive nature ensures it turns into embedded within the listener’s reminiscence. The melodic phrasing, significantly using rests and syncopation, creates a way of rhythmic drive and anticipation. Moreover, the melody’s placement inside the tune’s construction, showing a number of instances all through the association, reinforces its prominence. These structural and rhythmic components, mixed with the expressive qualities of the tenor saxophone, elevate the melody past a easy tune and remodel it into a strong hook. One can simply think about listening to the melody and immediately associating it with the tune, no matter musical background or generational variations. This widespread recognition underscores the melody’s iconic standing.
In conclusion, the long-lasting melody of “Who Can It Be Now?” is inseparable from its efficiency on the tenor saxophone. The instrument’s expressive capabilities, coupled with the melody’s easy but efficient construction, create a strong and memorable musical assertion. The melody’s widespread recognition and enduring enchantment spotlight the significance of melodic building and instrumental alternative in crafting a very iconic piece of music. This understanding offers useful insights into the weather that contribute to a tune’s lasting influence and presents a framework for analyzing different profitable musical works.
4. Eighties In style Music
The Eighties music scene offers essential context for understanding the influence of the tenor saxophone riff in Males at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”. This period witnessed a various vary of musical types, from new wave and synth-pop to onerous rock and heavy metallic. Analyzing the tune inside this broader musical panorama illuminates how the saxophone, not sometimes a dominant instrument in mainstream pop on the time, contributed to the tune’s distinctive sound and enduring reputation.
-
Synthesizer Dominance
The Eighties noticed a surge in synthesizer use in widespread music. Artists like Duran Duran and A-ha closely featured synthesized sounds, creating a definite sonic panorama. On this context, the distinguished use of a tenor saxophone in “Who Can It Be Now?” provided a refreshing distinction. The natural, reedy tone of the saxophone stood out in opposition to the synthesized sounds prevalent in lots of modern hits, contributing to the tune’s distinctive identification.
-
New Wave Affect
New wave music, characterised by its mix of punk power and digital experimentation, performed a big function in shaping the sound of the Eighties. “Who Can It Be Now?”, whereas not strictly a brand new wave observe, incorporates components of the style, together with its energetic tempo and catchy melodies. The saxophone riff, with its distinctive phrasing and rhythmic drive, aligns with the brand new wave aesthetic, additional contributing to the tune’s enchantment inside the broader musical context.
-
Instrumental Hooks
Instrumental hooks have been a typical characteristic of Eighties widespread music. Songs like “Baker Avenue” by Gerry Rafferty and “Careless Whisper” by George Michael featured memorable instrumental melodies that helped propel their success. Equally, the saxophone riff in “Who Can It Be Now?” serves as a strong instrumental hook, immediately grabbing the listener’s consideration and contributing considerably to the tune’s enduring reputation. This deal with memorable instrumental melodies inside the context of Eighties music additional emphasizes the influence of the saxophone riff.
-
MTV’s Impression
The rise of MTV within the Eighties considerably impacted the best way music was consumed and promoted. Music movies grew to become essential for artists’ success, usually emphasizing visible components alongside the music. Whereas “Who Can It Be Now?” predates the height of MTV’s affect, the tune’s memorable saxophone riff undoubtedly benefited from the growing deal with visible and musical hooks in music movies. The distinctive sound of the saxophone supplied a visually partaking factor that resonated with audiences accustomed to the visible language of MTV.
In conclusion, analyzing “Who Can It Be Now?” inside the context of Eighties widespread music reveals the importance of its saxophone riff. The tune’s use of the tenor saxophone, in distinction to the prevalent synthesizers, its alignment with new wave aesthetics, its highly effective instrumental hook, and its suitability for the rising music video format, all contributed to the tune’s distinctive identification and enduring legacy. By contemplating these components, one good points a deeper appreciation for the tune’s influence and its place inside the broader musical panorama of the last decade.
5. Instrumental Hook
The instrumental hook in Males at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?” is a main instance of how a memorable melodic phrase, carried out on a particular instrument, can considerably contribute to a tune’s success. On this case, the tenor saxophone riff capabilities as the first hook, immediately grabbing the listener’s consideration and remaining embedded of their reminiscence lengthy after the tune ends. Exploring the assorted aspects of this instrumental hook offers useful perception into its effectiveness and lasting influence.
-
Memorability
The riff’s memorability stems from its easy but efficient melodic construction. The comparatively few notes, mixed with a particular rhythmic sample, create a catchy phrase that’s simple to recall. This simplicity contributes considerably to the hook’s effectiveness, permitting it to resonate with a broad viewers. Contemplate, as an example, how usually the riff is whistled or hummed by people who could not even know the tune’s title; the melody’s inherent memorability transcends informal listenership.
-
Timbral Distinction
The tenor saxophone’s distinctive timbre performs an important function within the hook’s effectiveness. Its reedy tone provides a layer of character and depth to the melody, distinguishing it from different devices generally utilized in pop music. This timbral distinction contributes to the tune’s distinctive sonic identification. Think about, for instance, the riff performed on a unique instrument, akin to a guitar or keyboard; the influence can be considerably altered, demonstrating the essential function of the tenor saxophone’s particular tonal qualities.
-
Placement and Repetition
The strategic placement and repetition of the saxophone riff inside the tune’s construction additional improve its influence. The riff seems at key moments, serving as each an introduction and a recurring motif all through the tune. This repetition reinforces the melody within the listener’s thoughts, solidifying its function as the first hook. The breaks between vocal phrases the place the riff seems present a dynamic distinction and create anticipation for its return, additional emphasizing its significance inside the total association.
-
Cultural Impression
The instrumental hook’s cultural influence extends past the tune itself. The riff has been utilized in numerous commercials, tv reveals, and movies, solidifying its place in widespread tradition. This widespread utilization additional underscores the hook’s memorability and effectiveness. Its continued presence in media many years after the tune’s launch speaks volumes about its lasting enchantment and affect. The riff has transcended its authentic context and develop into a recognizable musical factor in its personal proper.
In conclusion, the instrumental hook in “Who Can It Be Now?” demonstrates the ability of a well-crafted melodic phrase performed on a particular instrument. The saxophone riff’s memorability, timbral distinction, strategic placement, and cultural influence all contribute to its effectiveness and enduring legacy. By understanding these components, one good points a deeper appreciation for the tune’s success and the essential function of the instrumental hook in shaping its identification.
6. Tune’s International Recognition
The worldwide recognition of “Who Can It Be Now?” is inextricably linked to the prominence of its tenor saxophone riff. This instrumental hook, carried out by Greg Ham, capabilities as a sonic signature, immediately figuring out the tune throughout cultures and languages. The riff’s memorability, owing to its easy melodic construction and the distinct timbre of the tenor saxophone, transcends lyrical comprehension, contributing to the tune’s worldwide enchantment. Proof of this international recognition could be noticed within the tune’s chart efficiency, reaching primary in a number of international locations, together with the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Moreover, the tune’s continued inclusion in widespread tradition, by movie, tv, and promoting, reinforces its widespread recognition and enduring legacy. This international attain underscores the ability of a particular instrumental hook to transcend linguistic and cultural obstacles, contributing considerably to a tune’s worldwide success.
The saxophone riff’s contribution to the tune’s international recognition extends past mere memorability. The instrument’s distinctive sonic qualities evoke a way of intrigue and thriller, resonating with listeners no matter their cultural background. The riff’s placement inside the tune’s construction, showing in the beginning and recurring all through, additional reinforces its prominence and contributes to its international recognition. The tune’s success outdoors of English-speaking international locations, the place lyrical understanding could also be restricted, demonstrates the ability of instrumental music to speak emotion and set up a reference to a various viewers. This phenomenon highlights the significance of contemplating musical components past lyrics when analyzing a tune’s international influence. The particular instance of “Who Can It Be Now?” demonstrates how a particular instrumental hook can contribute considerably to cross-cultural enchantment and enduring reputation.
In conclusion, the worldwide recognition of “Who Can It Be Now?” is considerably attributed to the prominence and memorability of its tenor saxophone riff. This instrumental factor serves as an important issue within the tune’s worldwide success, demonstrating the ability of music to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries. The tune’s continued presence in international widespread tradition reinforces the lasting influence of a well-crafted instrumental hook and offers a useful case examine for understanding the weather that contribute to a tune’s widespread enchantment and enduring legacy. Additional analysis might discover the particular cultural contexts by which the tune achieved success and analyze the various interpretations of its musical components throughout totally different areas.
Continuously Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries relating to the long-lasting saxophone riff in Males at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”.
Query 1: Who performed the saxophone solo on “Who Can It Be Now?”
Greg Ham, a multi-instrumentalist and founding member of Males at Work, carried out the immediately recognizable tenor saxophone riff.
Query 2: What sort of saxophone is used within the tune?
A tenor saxophone is used, contributing considerably to the riff’s distinctive timbre and total influence. Its wealthy, reedy tone distinguishes the melody from what an alto or soprano saxophone would produce.
Query 3: Was the saxophone riff composed particularly for “Who Can It Be Now?”
Whereas the precise origins of the riff are debated, it is typically understood to have been developed throughout jam periods and integrated into the tune’s association. Its integration exemplifies the collaborative songwriting course of inside Males at Work.
Query 4: How did the saxophone riff contribute to the tune’s success?
The saxophone riff capabilities because the tune’s main hook, immediately grabbing listeners’ consideration and contributing to its widespread recognition. This memorable instrumental melody performed a big function within the tune’s chart efficiency and enduring legacy.
Query 5: Has the saxophone riff been utilized in different media?
The riff’s widespread recognition has led to its inclusion in quite a few movies, tv reveals, and commercials. This frequent utilization in widespread tradition additional solidifies its iconic standing and underscores its enduring enchantment.
Query 6: How did the tune’s saxophone affect Eighties music?
Whereas pinpointing direct affect is complicated, the distinguished use of a saxophone in a globally profitable pop tune probably contributed to a renewed curiosity within the instrument in the course of the Eighties. It demonstrated the saxophone’s potential inside mainstream pop preparations, doubtlessly inspiring different musicians to include the instrument into their work.
Understanding the historic and musical context surrounding this iconic saxophone riff offers a deeper appreciation for its enduring influence on widespread tradition.
Additional exploration can delve into the particular recording strategies, musical association, and cultural influences that formed the tune’s creation and reception. Inspecting the broader influence of “Who Can It Be Now?” inside the Eighties music scene offers further insights into the tune’s lasting legacy.
Ideas for Attaining an Iconic Saxophone Sound
Impressed by the long-lasting tenor saxophone riff in Males at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”, the following tips supply steerage for musicians searching for to create memorable and impactful saxophone melodies.
Tip 1: Embrace Simplicity: Efficient melodies usually prioritize simplicity. The “Who Can It Be Now?” riff demonstrates {that a} comparatively easy melodic construction, when paired with a particular timbre and rhythmic drive, can obtain iconic standing. Deal with crafting clear, concise melodic phrases which might be simple to acknowledge and bear in mind.
Tip 2: Discover Timbral Qualities: Experiment with totally different saxophones (soprano, alto, tenor, baritone) to find the timbre that most accurately fits the specified temper and musical context. The tenor saxophone’s wealthy, reedy tone contributes considerably to the “Who Can It Be Now?” riff’s influence; contemplate how totally different timbres may evoke totally different feelings and improve particular musical types.
Tip 3: Grasp Articulation and Phrasing: Nuances in articulation and phrasing can dramatically influence a melody’s expressiveness. Examine Greg Ham’s efficiency; word the refined vibrato, bending of notes, and rhythmic variations that contribute to the riff’s distinctive character. Develop management over these components to imbue melodies with character and emotional depth.
Tip 4: Perceive Melodic Contour: The rising and falling patterns inside a melody (its contour) create pressure and launch, shaping the listener’s emotional response. Analyze the contour of the “Who Can It Be Now?” riff and contemplate how totally different contours may create totally different emotional results. Experiment with various melodic shapes to find how they affect a melody’s influence.
Tip 5: Contemplate Rhythmic Variation: Rhythmic variations, akin to syncopation and using rests, add dynamism and curiosity to a melody. The “Who Can It Be Now?” riff’s rhythmic drive contributes considerably to its memorability. Discover totally different rhythmic patterns to find how they work together with the melody and improve its total influence.
Tip 6: Contextualize inside the Association: A memorable saxophone melody ought to complement the general association, not overpower it. Contemplate how the saxophone interacts with different devices and vocals. The “Who Can It Be Now?” riff blends seamlessly with the tune’s different components, making a cohesive and interesting sonic panorama.
Tip 7: Examine the Masters: Hear actively to saxophone gamers throughout varied genres, analyzing their strategies and approaches to melody creation. Broaden past “Who Can It Be Now?” and discover the work of influential saxophonists like John Sax, Charlie Parker, and Cannonball Adderley to realize a deeper understanding of the instrument’s expressive potential.
By implementing the following tips, musicians can develop their saxophone expertise and create memorable, impactful melodies that resonate with listeners. Growing a powerful understanding of melodic building, timbral exploration, and expressive phrasing is important for crafting iconic saxophone strains.
This exploration of saxophone melodies concludes by emphasizing the significance of steady observe, experimentation, and demanding listening within the pursuit of musical excellence. The instance of “Who Can It Be Now?” offers a useful framework for understanding the weather that contribute to a memorable and impactful saxophone efficiency.
The Enduring Legacy of “Who Can It Be Now?” Tenor Sax
This exploration has examined the multifaceted significance of the tenor saxophone riff in Males at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”. From Greg Ham’s efficiency nuances to the instrument’s distinct timbre, the melody’s building, and its placement inside the broader context of Eighties widespread music, a number of components contribute to the riff’s iconic standing. Its perform as a strong instrumental hook propelled the tune to international recognition, demonstrating the influence of a well-crafted melodic phrase. The evaluation highlighted the interaction between musical components, demonstrating how a seemingly easy saxophone line can develop into a defining attribute of a globally acknowledged tune.
The enduring presence of this saxophone riff in widespread tradition underscores its lasting influence. Its continued use in varied media, many years after the tune’s launch, solidifies its place as a memorable and recognizable musical motif. “Who Can It Be Now?” serves as a case examine in how a particular instrumental factor can elevate a tune to iconic standing, influencing subsequent musical traits and resonating with audiences throughout generations. Additional exploration of the tune’s cultural influence and musical legacy presents continued alternatives for deeper understanding and appreciation.
