The immediately recognizable saxophone riff from Males at Work’s 1981 hit “Who Can It Be Now?” is a defining component 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 precise 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 robust 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 up to date 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 standard music throughout the decade.
Additional exploration of the tune’s musical construction, manufacturing methods, and cultural affect can present a deeper appreciation for its enduring reputation. Analyzing the interaction between the saxophone melody and the opposite instrumental and lyrical parts reveals the skillful craftsmanship that went into creating this iconic observe. Analyzing the tune’s chart efficiency and its continued presence in standard 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. Take into account, for example, the refined vibrato and bending of notes, which contribute to the unsettling temper. These nuances, particular to Ham’s enjoying fashion, would probably be absent in one other musician’s rendition, demonstrating his distinctive contribution to the tune’s enduring affect. This efficiency remodeled a comparatively easy melody into an iconic hook, demonstrating the facility of particular person artistry to form a tune’s success.
The affect 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 general 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 standard tradition, together with its use in commercials and movie, additional exemplifies the lasting affect of Ham’s contribution. It serves as a case research 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 element of the tune’s identification and lasting affect. His distinctive enjoying fashion, mixed with the catchy melody, created an immediately recognizable hook that contributed considerably to the tune’s worldwide success. Analyzing Ham’s efficiency offers worthwhile perception into the facility 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 a vital 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 general affect. This particular tonal high quality distinguishes the melody from what can be achieved utilizing, for 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 affect. The tenor’s sonic signature, with its mix of heat and edge, arguably grew to become a vital component 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 general impact.
Additional emphasizing the timbre’s significance is the way in which it interacts with the tune’s different parts. 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, fairly 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 general affect. Think about the riff performed on a unique instrument; the tune’s distinct character would undoubtedly be altered. This highlights the essential function timbre performs in establishing a tune’s sonic identification.
In conclusion, the tenor saxophone’s distinctive timbre is integral to the lasting affect 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 parts. This cautious choice of instrumentation highlights the significance of timbre in shaping a tune’s emotional affect and enduring enchantment. The tune serves as a first-rate instance of how the proper instrument, performed successfully, can elevate a easy melody to an iconic riff, perpetually etched within the annals of standard music.
3. Iconic Melody
The enduring 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 properly 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 round stepwise movement with occasional leaps, are simply recognizable and memorable. This mixture of simplicity and expressiveness contributes considerably to the melody’s iconic standing. Take into account how totally different the affect can be if the melody had been considerably extra complicated or carried out on a unique instrument; the quick memorability and emotional affect 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, notably 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 parts, mixed with the expressive qualities of the tenor saxophone, elevate the melody past a easy tune and rework it into a robust 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 enduring 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 robust and memorable musical assertion. The melody’s widespread recognition and enduring enchantment spotlight the significance of melodic building and instrumental alternative in crafting a really iconic piece of music. This understanding offers worthwhile insights into the weather that contribute to a tune’s lasting affect and affords a framework for analyzing different profitable musical works.
4. Eighties Fashionable Music
The Eighties music scene offers essential context for understanding the affect of the tenor saxophone riff in Males at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”. This period witnessed a various vary of musical kinds, 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 standard 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?” supplied a refreshing distinction. The natural, reedy tone of the saxophone stood out towards the synthesized sounds prevalent in lots of up to date 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 parts 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 had been a standard characteristic of Eighties standard music. Songs like “Baker Road” 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 robust instrumental hook, immediately grabbing the listener’s consideration and contributing considerably to the tune’s enduring reputation. This give attention to memorable instrumental melodies inside the context of Eighties music additional emphasizes the affect of the saxophone riff.
-
MTV’s Impression
The rise of MTV within the Eighties considerably impacted the way in which music was consumed and promoted. Music movies grew to become essential for artists’ success, usually emphasizing visible parts 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 rising give attention to visible and musical hooks in music movies. The distinctive sound of the saxophone supplied a visually partaking component that resonated with audiences accustomed to the visible language of MTV.
In conclusion, analyzing “Who Can It Be Now?” inside the context of Eighties standard 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 positive aspects a deeper appreciation for the tune’s affect 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 first-rate 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 worthwhile perception into its effectiveness and lasting affect.
-
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. Take into account, for 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 a vital 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, comparable to a guitar or keyboard; the affect 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 affect. 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 general association.
-
Cultural Impression
The instrumental hook’s cultural affect extends past the tune itself. The riff has been utilized in numerous commercials, tv reveals, and movies, solidifying its place in standard 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 grow to be a recognizable musical component in its personal proper.
In conclusion, the instrumental hook in “Who Can It Be Now?” demonstrates the facility of a well-crafted melodic phrase performed on a particular instrument. The saxophone riff’s memorability, timbral distinction, strategic placement, and cultural affect all contribute to its effectiveness and enduring legacy. By understanding these parts, one positive aspects a deeper appreciation for the tune’s success and the essential function of the instrumental hook in shaping its identification.
6. Music’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 might 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 standard tradition, by movie, tv, and promoting, reinforces its widespread recognition and enduring legacy. This international attain underscores the facility of a particular instrumental hook to transcend linguistic and cultural limitations, 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 at first 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 facility of instrumental music to speak emotion and set up a reference to a various viewers. This phenomenon highlights the significance of contemplating musical parts past lyrics when analyzing a tune’s international affect. The precise 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 component serves as a vital issue within the tune’s worldwide success, demonstrating the facility of music to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries. The tune’s continued presence in international standard tradition reinforces the lasting affect of a well-crafted instrumental hook and offers a worthwhile case research for understanding the weather that contribute to a tune’s widespread enchantment and enduring legacy. Additional analysis may discover the precise cultural contexts through which the tune achieved success and analyze the various interpretations of its musical parts throughout totally different areas.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to the enduring 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 general affect. 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 usually 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 standard 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 throughout the Eighties. It demonstrated the saxophone’s potential inside mainstream pop preparations, probably 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 affect on standard tradition.
Additional exploration can delve into the precise recording methods, musical association, and cultural influences that formed the tune’s creation and reception. Analyzing the broader affect of “Who Can It Be Now?” inside the Eighties music scene offers further insights into the tune’s lasting legacy.
Ideas for Reaching an Iconic Saxophone Sound
Impressed by the enduring tenor saxophone riff in Males at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”, the following pointers provide steering for musicians looking 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. Give attention to crafting clear, concise melodic phrases which can 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 closely 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 affect; think about how totally different timbres may evoke totally different feelings and improve particular musical kinds.
Tip 3: Grasp Articulation and Phrasing: Nuances in articulation and phrasing can dramatically affect 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 parts 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 think about how totally different contours may create totally different emotional results. Experiment with various melodic shapes to find how they affect a melody’s affect.
Tip 5: Take into account Rhythmic Variation: Rhythmic variations, comparable 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 general affect.
Tip 6: Contextualize inside the Association: A memorable saxophone melody ought to complement the general association, not overpower it. Take into account how the saxophone interacts with different devices and vocals. The “Who Can It Be Now?” riff blends seamlessly with the tune’s different parts, making a cohesive and interesting sonic panorama.
Tip 7: Examine the Masters: Pay attention actively to saxophone gamers throughout varied genres, analyzing their methods and approaches to melody creation. Develop 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 pointers, musicians can develop their saxophone expertise and create memorable, impactful melodies that resonate with listeners. Creating a robust 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 apply, experimentation, and demanding listening within the pursuit of musical excellence. The instance of “Who Can It Be Now?” offers a worthwhile 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 standard music, a number of components contribute to the riff’s iconic standing. Its perform as a robust instrumental hook propelled the tune to international recognition, demonstrating the affect of a well-crafted melodic phrase. The evaluation highlighted the interaction between musical parts, demonstrating how a seemingly easy saxophone line can grow to be a defining attribute of a globally acknowledged tune.
The enduring presence of this saxophone riff in standard tradition underscores its lasting affect. 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 research in how a particular instrumental component can elevate a tune to iconic standing, influencing subsequent musical traits and resonating with audiences throughout generations. Additional exploration of the tune’s cultural affect and musical legacy affords continued alternatives for deeper understanding and appreciation.
