Time Travels, But So Does MUSIC
The Evolution of French Kiss ->How's Your Evening So Far
We’ve all heard of the term time travel… but have you ever considered how the sound of music travels?
Music is a fascinating and artistic way that allows us to capture what a certain time period, energy, or aura sounds like. Think of this, the distinct sound of the 1980’s which incorporates some elements of pop, synthesizers, and just where the introduction of house music started to begin.
House music emerged in the early 1980s, primarily in Chicago, Illinois, USA. It is widely credited with taking root in Chicago's underground club scene
But with this new and emerging sound of electronic dance music, we have seen a ton of variability and manipulation with the sounds. As time goes on and the modern world evolves, so does the sound of electronic music.
Over time, EDM has dispersed into numeros sub categories. Artists from all over the world have experimented with technology and dance music. We are able to hear and discern different cultures just by listening to a truck.
As time travels, so does the music we listen to.
But stop. Hold on.
With all this time traveling and constantly evolution of sound among the electronic house community. There are some constants.
One thing that does NOT get old - arguably, immortal- is the original sound of Lil Louis, “French Kiss”.
French Kiss - Lil Louis (1989)
The original beat of "French Kiss" was created by the American musician and producer Lil Louis. "French Kiss" is a classic house music track released in 1989. It's known for its distinctive and repetitive drum pattern, which became iconic in the genre and has had a lasting influence on electronic dance music. Lil Louis, whose real name is Louis Burns, is credited with producing and composing the track.
But it doesn't end there, why are we mentioning this iconic “French Kiss” beat that began in the late 80’s?
Vicious Circle - Larry Cadge (2014)
Generations after in 2014, DJ Larry Cadge put his own spin on the sound and further revived the intoxicating beat. Cadge began his music career that same year, 1989. Cadge was heavily influenced by artists like Marvin Gaye and Curtis Mayfield.
Cadge has taken the pulsating beat from 1989 and renamed it “Vicious Circle” and BAM. Just like that, the track has resurfaced and recirculated in an entirely novel generation.
The sound has TRAVELED. When a beat is as good as the original “French Kiss”, it knows no boundaries.
But don’t let us stop there, the vicious circle continues.
How’s Your Evening So Far? - Chris Lake Remix (2020)
DJ Chris Lake has taken Josh Wink and Lil’ Louis’s “How’s Your Evening So Far?” and evolved it even further with his own remix. How can the track possibly get any better? Well, you’ll have to listen to it and judge for yourself.
As time goes on, the sound of electronic dance music is ceaselessly adapting to our modern and technological world. But what stays constant is a good f*cking beat. And luckily, Lil Loui’s - whether he knew it or not - generated a truly iconic and addictive beat that still lives until this very year, in 2023.
A part of being a talented DJ is being able to recognize a good sound and know what to do with it. Larry Cadge and Chris Lake recognized the alluring rhythm of the original “French Kiss” and saw the opportunity to keep it alive.
For those who do not know the track, listen to them in this order and experience the music traveling for yourself -
Lil Louis - French Kiss (1989)
Lil Louis & Josh Wink - How’s Your Evening So Far? (2000) - (same track just with lyrics)
Larry Cadge - Vicious Circle (2014)
Chris Lake’s Remix of How’s Your Evening So Far? - (2020)
The sound of music is ever-evolving, shaped by cultural trends and technological advancements. Despite these changes, a good beat remains timeless and transcends eras. It's the heartbeat of music, connecting people through rhythm and groove. While musical styles come and go, a strong beat endures, ensuring that people will always find joy in the danceable, unifying power of a compelling rhythm. A ‘French Kiss’ is hard to forget.
