1977 Jazz-Funk Musical Adaptation of Dune by David Matthews
David Matthews' 1977 jazz-funk adaptation of "Dune" features a 20-minute suite and collaborations with notable musicians. His work has influenced hip-hop and gained popularity in Japan.
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David Matthews' jazz-funk musical adaptation of Frank Herbert's "Dune," released in 1977, is a notable early interpretation of the iconic sci-fi novel. The album, produced by CTI Records, features a 20-minute suite on its first side, including tracks titled "Arrakis," "Sandworms," "Song of the Bene Gesserit," and "Muad'dib." The album cover's typography is reminiscent of "Star Wars," which was released the same year, and it concludes with renditions of themes from both "Star Wars" and David Bowie's "Space Oddity." Matthews, who was CTI's chief arranger, collaborated with prominent jazz musicians such as Randy Brecker and Steve Gadd. His work has been influential in hip-hop, with samples from his music appearing in tracks by artists like MF DOOM and The Notorious B.I.G. After leaving CTI, Matthews recorded extensively for Japanese labels, gaining a dedicated following in Japan. His contributions to jazz and popular music continue to resonate, showcasing the intersection of genres and the lasting impact of his work.
- David Matthews' "Dune" is a jazz-funk adaptation of Frank Herbert's novel.
- The album features a 20-minute suite inspired by the book and includes tracks like "Arrakis" and "Muad'dib."
- Matthews collaborated with notable jazz musicians and has influenced hip-hop artists through sampling.
- After leaving CTI Records, he recorded extensively in Japan, where he found a strong audience.
- The album's cover design draws parallels to "Star Wars," released in the same year.
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- Several users share recommendations for other musical adaptations of literary works, such as Jeff Wayne’s "War of the Worlds" and Bo Hansson’s "The Lord of the Rings."
- There is a discussion about the influence of Matthews' work on hip-hop, with mentions of sampling by artists like MF DOOM and RJD2.
- Some comments highlight the unique and "weird" nature of "Dune," suggesting it lends itself well to various musical styles.
- Users express interest in the historical context of the music and its connections to pop culture, including references to Star Wars.
- There are mentions of confusion regarding David Matthews' identity on music platforms, indicating a mix-up with other artists of similar names.
14 commentsOn the subject of weird Star Wars musical adaptations like those on the second half of the album -- I've recently discovered the track "Dark Vader" by Instant Funk from 1979. I love this track as it really feels like it captures a moment in time, right before The Empire Strikes Back was released and Star Wars really became a franchise.
- The misunderstanding of the name, which was exactly what I called "Darth Vader" as a kid, seemingly was more prevalent back at the time
- The feeling of absolute hype that he was going to return on screen (I assume this track came out after initial marketing for Empire began)
- The popular conception of Vader as a Black man -- something that must have seemed obvious at the time with the voice of James Earl Jones, that was really thrown away with his reveal as Luke's Father in Empire
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ktYPoln1n-WvUNOQOW...
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_Inspired_by_Lord_of_the_...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rs0AmruS8Ro&list=PL9DD02F58F...
1. Keyboardist David Matthews born in 1942 who made the album "Dune" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Matthews_(keyboardist)
2. Rock musician David Matthews born in 1967 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Matthews
3. Jazz saxophonist David Matthews born in 1911 (the bio section of the Apple Music page is about him) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Matthews_(saxophonist)
I have submitted a feedback ticket to Apple but I thought I would also leave it here.
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Recreating Dune II for the Amiga
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John Coltrane Draws a Picture Illustrating the Mathematics of Music
Stephon Alexander links John Coltrane's music to Einstein's theories, highlighting the "Coltrane circle." Coltrane's work is viewed as a spiritual journey, with diverse interpretations reflecting its scientific and spiritual dimensions.
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