The Reflex: A Journey of Music and Creativity

Music has the power to transport us to different places and evoke a wide range of emotions. For the band Duran Duran, their journey of creating their hit song "The Reflex" took them from a mobile truck in the South of France to the vibrant music scene of Australia. In this article, we will delve into the process behind the making of "The Reflex" and explore the influences that shaped its unique sound. Join us as we take a deep dive into the story behind this iconic song.

1. Introduction

"The Reflex" is a song that holds a special place in the hearts of Duran Duran fans worldwide. Its infectious groove and captivating lyrics have made it a timeless hit that continues to be celebrated to this day. But what inspired the band to create this masterpiece? Let's rewind and travel back in time to the early stages of its creation.

2. Recording in the South of France

The journey of "The Reflex" began in a mobile truck in the South of France, where Duran Duran set up their recording studio. Although the sessions produced some interesting material, they felt something was missing. There was a desire to create in a warmer and less chaotic environment than England. This led them to make a decision that would greatly influence the direction of the song.

3. Decamping to Montserrat

In their quest for the perfect setting, Duran Duran decided to decamp to the beautiful island of Montserrat. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning surroundings provided the band with the inspiration they sought. Giant iguanas roamed the island, adding to the sense of wonder and adventure. It was during their time in Montserrat that the true magic of "The Reflex" started to take shape.

4. Influences on the Album

Creativity is often sparked by a combination of influences, and the making of "The Reflex" was no exception. Duran Duran found themselves listening to a lot of music during this period, with particular focus on artists like Sheikh and Terry Thompson. These influences, along with others, began to shape the sound and direction of the album.

5. The Making of "The Reflex"

As the band continued to experiment with different sounds and grooves, they stumbled upon a backing track that caught their attention. With the addition of a new synthesizer, featuring real string sounds, a unique musical landscape started to emerge. Keyboard lines, guitar riffs, and a distinct melody all came together to form the backbone of "The Reflex."

6. Moving on to Australia

With the foundation of "The Reflex" laid down, Duran Duran set their sights on Australia. It was in Melbourne that they encountered the band INXS and their song "Original Sin." The infectious production on "Original Sin," helmed by Nile Rodgers, captivated the members of Duran Duran. This encounter would have a profound impact on the future of "The Reflex."

7. In Love with "Original Sin"

Molly Meldrum, a well-known Australian music personality, played "Original Sin" at a party he hosted for Duran Duran. The band was instantly drawn to the song and its production. They requested multiple plays, allowing the infectious melody and exquisite production to seep into their souls. The experience solidified their desire to work with Nile Rodgers.

8. Contacting Nile Rodgers

Upon their return to the UK, Duran Duran wasted no time in reaching out to Nile Rodgers. They sent him a copy of "The Reflex," excited about the potential collaboration. Nile Rodgers, having just acquired a sampler himself, was equally intrigued by the possibilities of this partnership. The stage was set for an extraordinary creative union.

9. Collaborating with Nile Rodgers

The collaboration between Duran Duran and Nile Rodgers was a meeting of musical minds. Both parties brought their unique talents and skills to the table, pushing the boundaries of what could be achieved. Through the use of samplers, synthesizers, and loops, they embarked on a journey to refine and elevate "The Reflex" to its fullest potential.

10. The Evolution of "The Reflex"

As the creative process unfolded, "The Reflex" underwent significant changes in its arrangement. Duran Duran and Nile Rodgers recognized the song's immense potential and sought to bring out its best qualities. The final version that was released as a single differed considerably from the album version, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that went into its production.

In conclusion, "The Reflex" stands as a testament to the creative genius of Duran Duran and the transformative effects of collaboration. From the picturesque landscapes of the South of France to the vibrant music scene of Australia, this song's journey encapsulates the magic and excitement of the music-making process. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate audiences, reminding us of the power of music to transport us to extraordinary places.

Highlights:

Duran Duran's journey to create "The Reflex" took them from the South of France to Montserrat and finally Australia.
Influences from artists like Sheikh, Terry Thompson, and INXS shaped the sound and direction of the song.
The collaboration with Nile Rodgers elevated "The Reflex" to new heights of creativity.
The final version of the song released as a single differed significantly from the album version, showcasing the attention to detail in its production.

FAQs:

Q: What inspired Duran Duran to create "The Reflex"? A: The band sought a warmer and less chaotic environment than England, leading them to record in the South of France and eventually Montserrat.

Q: How did INXS influence Duran Duran's creative process? A: Hearing INXS' song "Original Sin" and its production by Nile Rodgers played a major role in Duran Duran's decision to work with Rodgers on "The Reflex".

Q: How did the collaboration with Nile Rodgers shape "The Reflex"? A: Nile Rodgers' expertise with samplers and synthesizers added a new dimension to the song, resulting in a refined and elevated version of "The Reflex".

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