What is the wood-like sound prior to Van Halen’s solo in Beat It?
Introduction
Michael Jackson’s hit song “Beat It” features a legendary guitar solo performed by the late Eddie Van Halen. This solo has become one of the most iconic and recognizable guitar moments in music history. However, before the solo kicks in, there is a distinct wood-like sound that adds intrigue and anticipation to the song. In this article, we will explore the origins of that sound and delve into the captivating story behind Eddie Van Halen’s contribution to “Beat It.”
The Unpaid Guitar Solo
One fascinating fact about Eddie Van Halen’s guitar solo in “Beat It” is that he initially played it as an unpaid and uncredited session musician. According to sources, Van Halen’s involvement in the song came about through a phone call from producer Quincy Jones. Van Halen, mistaking Jones for a prank caller, initially hung up on him multiple times. Eventually, Van Halen realized it was indeed Quincy Jones and agreed to contribute his guitar skills to the track.
Impromptu Solos
Van Halen’s guitar solo in “Beat It” was the result of a spontaneous and improvised performance. He recorded two solos over the track, taking only about 10 minutes to put them together. This showcases Van Halen’s incredible talent for creating memorable and awe-inspiring guitar moments on the spot.
The Wood-Like Sound
Many listeners have wondered about the wood-like sound that precedes Van Halen’s solo in “Beat It.” It has been revealed that the sound is actually Michael Jackson knocking on a drum case. This unique element adds a percussive and rhythmic texture to the song, creating a sense of anticipation and setting the stage for Van Halen’s guitar mastery.
The Significance of the Guitar Solo
Eddie Van Halen’s guitar solo in “Beat It” is regarded as one of his most iconic contributions to music history. His distinctive style and virtuosic playing elevated the song to new heights, adding a rock edge to Michael Jackson’s pop sound. The solo’s melodic and technical brilliance captivated audiences and solidified Van Halen’s reputation as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation.
The Making of “Beat It”
The recording of “Beat It” took place in 1982 during the production of Michael Jackson’s legendary album, “Thriller.” The song was produced by Quincy Jones, engineered by Bruce Swedien, and written by Rod Temperton. Together, this talented team crafted a musical masterpiece that transcended genres and became a global phenomenon.
Legacy and Impact
“Beat It” quickly became one of Michael Jackson’s signature songs, showcasing his ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly. The song’s success propelled it to the top of the charts worldwide and earned numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards. Moreover, “Beat It” became a staple in Jackson’s live performances, featured prominently in his electrifying stage shows during his world tours.
Conclusion
The wood-like sound heard before Eddie Van Halen’s guitar solo in “Beat It” adds a distinctive and intriguing element to the song. Van Halen’s improvisation and technical prowess during the recording session resulted in an unforgettable guitar solo that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences to this day. The combination of Van Halen’s talent, Michael Jackson’s vision, and the collaborative efforts of the production team created a musical masterpiece that stands as a testament to the power of artistic collaboration.
Sources:
- MusicRadar: https://www.musicradar.com/news/eddie-van-halen-beat-it-solo-story
- Grunge: https://www.grunge.com/257599/the-truth-about-eddie-van-halens-beat-it-guitar-solo/
FAQs
Introduction
Michael Jackson’s hit song “Beat It” features a legendary guitar solo performed by the late Eddie Van Halen. This solo has become one of the most iconic and recognizable guitar moments in music history. However, before the solo kicks in, there is a distinct wood-like sound that adds intrigue and anticipation to the song. In this article, we will explore the origins of that sound and delve into the captivating story behind Eddie Van Halen’s contribution to “Beat It.”
What is the wood-like sound heard before Van Halen’s solo in “Beat It”?
The wood-like sound heard before Eddie Van Halen’s solo in “Beat It” is actually Michael Jackson knocking on a drum case. This unique element adds a percussive and rhythmic texture to the song, creating a sense of anticipation and setting the stage for Van Halen’s guitar mastery.
How did Eddie Van Halen get involved in recording the solo for “Beat It”?
Eddie Van Halen’s involvement in recording the solo for “Beat It” came about through a phone call from producer Quincy Jones. Van Halen initially mistook Jones for a prank caller and hung up on him multiple times before realizing it was indeed Quincy Jones. He agreed to contribute his guitar skills to the track, ultimately creating one of his most memorable performances.
Was Eddie Van Halen paid for his guitar solo on “Beat It”?
Eddie Van Halen initially played the guitar solo on “Beat It” as an unpaid and uncredited session musician. However, the exposure and recognition he gained from his contribution to the song significantly boosted his career and solidified his status as a guitar virtuoso.
How long did it take Eddie Van Halen to record the guitar solo for “Beat It”?
Eddie Van Halen recorded two improvised solos for “Beat It” in a remarkably short amount of time. It took him only about 10 minutes to put together the solos, showcasing his incredible talent for creating memorable and awe-inspiring guitar moments on the spot.
What is the significance of Eddie Van Halen’s guitar solo in “Beat It”?
Eddie Van Halen’s guitar solo in “Beat It” is considered one of his most iconic contributions to music history. Its melodic and technical brilliance captivates audiences, elevating the song to new heights and adding a rock edge to Michael Jackson’s pop sound. The solo solidified Van Halen’s reputation as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation.