"We spent a month in LA using a pool of musicians, a string arranger called Benjamin Wright, some great backing singers, and it gave tracks like Dynamite, which was written there, that kind of flavour"
About this Quote
Jay Kay’s reflection on the creative process behind their work in Los Angeles reveals the powerful impact that environment and collaboration can have on music. He describes an immersive month-long experience in LA, highlighting how the city itself, and access to its talent pool, shaped the end result of their tracks. Working with a pool of musicians and specialists, such as renowned string arranger Benjamin Wright, suggests a deliberate effort to infuse the music with both technical richness and a distinctive atmosphere. Benjamin Wright, known for his work with legendary artists, brings not just technical expertise, but also a unique sensibility shaped over decades in the industry, ensuring that string arrangements are emotive and memorable.
The inclusion of “great backing singers” points to an emphasis on vocal layering and harmony, critical elements for adding soulfulness and depth, especially in genres touching on funk, soul, and pop. Each of these creative decisions elevates the production beyond what might be achieved by only working with a core group, allowing for experimentation and a broader palette of musical expression.
Jay Kay directly connects this process to specifics: “tracks like Dynamite, which was written there, that kind of flavour.” Here, “flavour” signals more than just sound, it’s a cultural and artistic essence drawn from the synergy between people, place, and spontaneous creativity. The Los Angeles setting, with its storied musical history and melting pot of influences, offers both inspiration and access to exceptional talent. By embracing these opportunities, tracks such as “Dynamite” not only benefit from superior musicianship, but also from the intangible qualities that come when artists open themselves to new collaborations and surroundings. The resulting music bears the unmistakable imprint of the city, the contributors, and the energy of that creative period, making it richer, more textured, and authentic.
More details
About the Author