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Paul McCartney is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and influential musicians of all time. As a member of The Beatles, McCartney helped shape the landscape of popular music and continues to captivate audiences around the world with his solo work. One of McCartney’s lesser-known gems is the song “What’s That You’re Doing,” a collaboration with fellow music legend Stevie Wonder. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of this song and explore 8 interesting facts about its creation and impact.
1. Collaboration with Stevie Wonder
“What’s That You’re Doing” was released in 1982 as part of McCartney’s album “Tug of War.” The song is a collaboration between McCartney and the legendary Stevie Wonder, who co-wrote and performed on the track. The pairing of these two musical powerhouses was a match made in heaven, resulting in a funky and infectious tune that showcases their immense talent.
2. Stevie Wonder’s Influence
Stevie Wonder’s influence on “What’s That You’re Doing” is unmistakable. His signature harmonica playing and soulful vocals add a dynamic and vibrant energy to the song. Wonder’s unique musical style complements McCartney’s pop sensibilities, creating a memorable and engaging track that stands the test of time.
3. Funky Grooves
“What’s That You’re Doing” is known for its infectious funk grooves and catchy melodies. The song features a driving bassline, funky guitar riffs, and a lively horn section that give it a lively and energetic feel. McCartney and Wonder’s vocals intertwine seamlessly, creating a dynamic and engaging duet that keeps listeners hooked from start to finish.
4. Recording Process
The recording process for “What’s That You’re Doing” was a collaborative effort between McCartney and Wonder. The two musicians worked closely together to bring their vision for the song to life, experimenting with different musical ideas and arrangements until they found the perfect blend of pop and funk. The result is a polished and well-crafted track that showcases the talents of both artists.
5. Critical Acclaim
Upon its release, “What’s That You’re Doing” received critical acclaim for its catchy hooks, infectious grooves, and impeccable musicianship. The song was praised for its seamless blend of pop and funk elements, as well as the chemistry between McCartney and Wonder. “What’s That You’re Doing” became a fan favorite and remains a standout track in McCartney’s extensive catalog of music.
6. Chart Success
“What’s That You’re Doing” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and garnering airplay on radio stations around the world. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo made it a popular choice for fans of both McCartney and Wonder, solidifying its place as a classic in the annals of pop music history.
7. Live Performances
McCartney and Wonder performed “What’s That You’re Doing” live on several occasions, including during McCartney’s world tours and special events. The song’s infectious energy and dynamic vocal interplay translated well to the stage, earning rave reviews from fans and critics alike. McCartney and Wonder’s live performances of the song are a testament to their enduring musical talent and showmanship.
8. Legacy
“What’s That You’re Doing” continues to be a beloved song among fans of McCartney and Wonder, showcasing the enduring appeal of their collaboration. The song’s catchy hooks, funky grooves, and dynamic vocals have stood the test of time, cementing its status as a classic in the realm of pop music. “What’s That You’re Doing” remains a shining example of the magic that can happen when two musical icons come together to create something truly special.
Common Questions:
1. When was “What’s That You’re Doing” released?
– “What’s That You’re Doing” was released in 1982 as part of Paul McCartney’s album “Tug of War.”
2. Who did Paul McCartney collaborate with on the song?
– Paul McCartney collaborated with Stevie Wonder on “What’s That You’re Doing.”
3. What is the musical style of the song?
– “What’s That You’re Doing” features a blend of pop and funk elements, with catchy hooks and infectious grooves.
4. What instruments are prominently featured in the song?
– The song features a driving bassline, funky guitar riffs, and a lively horn section, as well as Stevie Wonder’s harmonica playing.
5. How did critics and fans react to the song?
– “What’s That You’re Doing” received critical acclaim for its catchy melodies, infectious energy, and impeccable musicianship.
6. Did “What’s That You’re Doing” achieve chart success?
– Yes, the song reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and received airplay on radio stations worldwide.
7. Have Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder performed the song live?
– Yes, McCartney and Wonder have performed “What’s That You’re Doing” live on several occasions, showcasing their musical chemistry and showmanship.
8. What is the legacy of “What’s That You’re Doing”?
– The song remains a fan favorite and a classic in McCartney’s catalog, showcasing the enduring appeal of his collaboration with Stevie Wonder.
9. How did Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder come to collaborate on the song?
– McCartney and Wonder met through mutual friends in the music industry and bonded over their shared love of music, leading to their collaboration on “What’s That You’re Doing.”
10. What was the inspiration behind the lyrics of the song?
– The lyrics of “What’s That You’re Doing” explore themes of love, relationships, and the joy of making music with a partner.
11. How long did it take to record “What’s That You’re Doing”?
– The recording process for the song took several weeks, as McCartney and Wonder experimented with different musical ideas and arrangements to perfect the final track.
12. What are some of the standout musical moments in “What’s That You’re Doing”?
– The song features a memorable harmonica solo by Stevie Wonder, as well as dynamic vocal interplay between McCartney and Wonder.
13. Did “What’s That You’re Doing” win any awards?
– The song received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
14. How has “What’s That You’re Doing” influenced other musicians?
– The song has inspired countless musicians with its infectious grooves, catchy melodies, and dynamic vocal performances, showcasing the enduring impact of McCartney and Wonder’s collaboration.
15. What is your favorite aspect of “What’s That You’re Doing”?
– My favorite aspect of “What’s That You’re Doing” is the seamless blend of pop and funk elements, as well as the vibrant energy and chemistry between McCartney and Wonder.
In conclusion, “What’s That You’re Doing” is a timeless classic that showcases the immense talent and musical prowess of Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder. The song’s infectious grooves, catchy melodies, and dynamic vocal interplay have captivated audiences for decades, solidifying its place as a standout track in McCartney’s illustrious career. The collaboration between McCartney and Wonder on “What’s That You’re Doing” is a shining example of the magic that can happen when two musical legends come together to create something truly special. As fans continue to enjoy and appreciate this gem of a song, its legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
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