Yellow Magic Orchestra (YMO) is a Japanese electronic music band formed in 1978. They are considered pioneers of techno and electropop and have greatly influenced the development of electronic music worldwide. The band consists of three members: Haruomi Hosono, Yukihiro Takahashi, and Ryuichi Sakamoto. YMO's music combines traditional Japanese melodies with Western electronic sounds, creating a unique and innovative sound. Their use of synthesizers, drum machines, and electronic instruments was groundbreaking at the time and set the stage for the future of electronic music. One of YMO's most popular albums is "Solid State Survivor," released in 1979.
I believe this album has been influenced by all the music I have heard, but the most profound influence comes from performing and recording. For me, this was thru my experience with the three members of Yellow Magic Orchestra and Yoko Ono.
A triumphant standout, Behind the Mask was later re-recorded by Michael Jackson for Thriller, but was cut before ever actually making it onto the album due to a copyright dispute with the band. Maybe a bit less palatable than the sort of stomping dance-pop to come with later releases, these jazz-inflicted roots reveal a trio of expert musicians keenly aware of their history, able to deploy intricate compositional ideas in ways that still come out sounding lush.
One of YMO's most popular albums is "Solid State Survivor," released in 1979. It includes hit songs like "Technopolis" and "Rydeen," which showcase their futuristic and catchy sound. The album was a commercial success and helped YMO gain international recognition.
Selections: Mathew Jonson
Welcome back to Selections, a series of exclusive artist-curated Spotify playlists from those in the know.
Wagon repair co-founder and Itiswhatitis label boss Mathew Jonson has been described as a visionary for his fast and loose analogue excursions. His particular idiosyncratic sound contains an improvisational quality, informed by an incisive feel for complex layering as much as his commitment to packing a punch on the dancefloor.
Aside from his solo sets, Jonson’s work can be found in the collectives Cobblestone Jazz, Modern Deep Left Quartet and Midnight Operator – which he heads up with his brother Nathan Jonson.
Stepping up for our Selections series, the Berlin-based selector delivers a playlist that pays tribute to Yellow Magic Orchestra – the seminal group founded by Ryuichi Sakamoto, Yukijiro Takahashi and Haruomi Hosono. The group pioneered playful blends of techno and pop, and outside of Japan gained popularity for their innovative use of technology in music at the time. Despite their short-lived existence (they were active between 1978 and 1984 with the exception of a brief reunion in 1993), YMO have retained an enduring legacy in electronic music. Jonson’s Selections playlist stitches together familiar tracks with more obscure B-sides, and significant air time is given to their fourth studio album BGM (1981). Celebrate the magic of YMO via the play button below.
Mathew Jonson plays at Caprices Festival, Switzerland, 11-14 April
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Cornelius – Influences Behind ‘Dream in Dream’
YMO's influence can be seen in the music of many artists and genres. Their use of electronic sounds and sampling has been widely adopted in hip hop, dance, and pop music. They are often cited as a major influence by artists such as Daft Punk, Kraftwerk, and Aphex Twin. In recent years, YMO's music has experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly on the popular music streaming platform, Spotify. Their songs have been featured in playlists and curated collections, making their music accessible to new generations of listeners. Overall, Yellow Magic Orchestra has had a profound impact on the world of electronic music. Their innovative sound and use of technology have left a lasting legacy and continue to inspire artists today. Whether you are a fan of electronic music or simply appreciate artistic experimentation, YMO is definitely worth exploring on platforms like Spotify..
Reviews for "Uncovering Yellow Magic Orchestra's Sampling Legacy on Spotify"
1. Sarah - rating: 1/5
I was really disappointed with "Yellow Magic Orchestra" on Spotify. I was expecting a unique and captivating listening experience, but all I got was repetitive electronic beats and uninspired melodies. The songs lacked depth and creativity; they all blended together into one generic and forgettable album. I was hoping for something more experimental and innovative from a band with such a cult following, but unfortunately, their music just didn't resonate with me.
2. Mark - rating: 2/5
"Yellow Magic Orchestra" on Spotify didn't live up to the hype for me. While I appreciate their influence on electronic music and their role in shaping the genre, their music just didn't engage me personally. The tracks felt dated and lacked the energy and excitement I was expecting. Perhaps it's because I'm not a die-hard fan of the genre, but I found myself skipping through most of the songs, searching for something that would capture my attention. Overall, I was left unimpressed and would not listen to this album again.
3. Emily - rating: 2/5
I was really hoping to discover a new favorite artist when I tried listening to "Yellow Magic Orchestra" on Spotify, but unfortunately, their music didn't resonate with me. The songs sounded repetitive and formulaic, lacking any real emotion or depth. While I understand their importance in the history of electronic music, their tracks just didn't capture my attention or make me feel anything. I appreciate their influence, but their music simply wasn't my cup of tea.