Following February release "Ain't Easy," Henry Invisible returns with an equally funky coalescence of electronic washes, hopping basslines, and a scuttling clavinet on his new single "Dance Music Saves," as part of an expansive project currently in the works.
Yet, a steady syncopation of open hi-hats accents familiar electronic beats in this latest groove, courtesy of drummer Bernard Purdie, known for his iconic drum beat, the Purdie Shuffle, and performances with legendary artists including Nina Simone and Aretha Franklin.
Born Henry Roland, the local musician first proposed a collaboration with Purdie when they met at a party hosted by Parliament-Funkadelic bassist Bootsy Collins in Anaheim, Calif., where they discussed Purdie's illustrious career and deep appreciation for disco music.
"He shared with me an interesting tidbit - his significant contribution to disco, playfully mentioning how he was responsible for adding the 'dis' to disco, referring to his iconic hi-hat rhythm," emails Henry Invisible. "When the time came for me to work on 'Dance Music Saves,' it felt like the perfect moment to connect with Mr. Purdie and involve him in the project.
"I shared the track with him prior to his recording session in his studio, and he graciously provided some valuable insight and feedback. We had a delightful conversation about the song, and that was all it took! It is truly awe-inspiring to witness his impeccable timing, as one would naturally expect."
Sketched out during the COVID-19 lockdown, the song marks just one of over 100 songs created as part of Invisible's then-weekly livestream event the Lovestream.
"It was crucial for me to create numerous uplifting and positive songs during that challenging period, hoping that the messages in my music would resonate with the audience," notes Henry Invisible. "Even if only for that one-hour performance, I aspired to bring joy to people's lives."
In the new song's chorus, Invisible rejoices: "Dance music saved my life/ Dance music saved my soul/ Dance music saved my heart/ Dance music gonna save the world!"
"There is no doubt in my mind that dance music is a driving force behind human connection. The undeniable magic of love and happiness becomes vividly apparent in a live setting, whether it's at my live show or DJ performances," the artist reflects. "At that moment, I envisioned the incredible experience of performing this anthem to an enthusiastic live crowd, once the chaos had subsided. And now, here we are, on the other side of that turbulent time, and I cannot express enough gratitude for this fortunate outcome."
He adds: "Turn up the volume, unleash your dance moves in the living room, and remember that positive vibrations truly make the world go round!"
Hear "Dance Music Saves" below. Henry Invisible kickstarts his Friday residency at Meridian in Buda on June 16.
