A renowned producer, drummer, singer and songwriter, if you’re a music fan, you’ve undoubtedly heard the work of Narada Michael Walden. Narada first worked in and around the spotlight as the drummer for Jeff Beck, The Mahavishnu Orchestra, and Tommy Bolin, to name a few artists. But after beginning a solo career in the late 1970s, Narada moved onto work as a producer. His career highlights as a producer include having produced six of Whitney Houston’s seven #1 hits.
Whitney Houston is far from the only prominent artist that Narada worked with, however. His credits also include Mariah Carey (he co-wrote “Heartbreaker” and “I Don’t Wanna Cry”), Aretha Franklin (he co-wrote “Freeway Of Love”), Jermaine Stewart (he co-wrote “We Don’t Have To Take Our Clothes Off”), and Shanice (he co-wrote “I Love Your Smile”). In turn, it isn’t surprising that Billboard Magazine recognized him as one of the “Top Ten Producers With the Most Number One Hits”; the tally is reportedly 57 songs at #1. Meanwhile, Narada continues to release his own music, as his latest solo album was 2015’s Evolution.
Narada kindly took the time to speak with Downtown about his May 26, 27 and 28 shows at The Iridium. Aside from his touring and recording obligations, Narada is the owner of Tarpan Studios and the record label Tarpan Records. For more info on all things Narada Michael Walden, click on over to www.nmwproductions.com or follow him on Twitter at @NaradaMWalden.
What was your first paying gig as a musician?
Narada Michael Walden: My first gig was probably playing at the Ambassador Lounge in Kalamazoo with Joel Brooks. We got paid kind of small but it still was nice. Also, we played on New Years Eve in Kalamazoo, Michigan at a big bar. I forget what it was called. We opened up for the main band and we got paid some money, it was good.
At what point did you successfully transition from being a drummer to being a producer?
NMW: I was probably around the age of 22 years old when I started producing other records. My Stacy Lattisaw stuff came out when I was 23 years old. Don Cherry, Angela Bofil, Phyllis Hyman, a bunch of stuff started coming out.
You started off playing more prog or complex music, and eventually wound up as one of the go-to producers for pop music. Was it a conscious effort for you to go pop?
NMW: Well, it just kind of naturally unfolded. I come from pop music in the beginning. Then I learned how to play Mahavishnu Orchestra music, so with pop I just kind of returned back to my roots again.
Is there a particular song or production from your career that you’re most proud of?
NMW: I love “Freeway Of Love” for Aretha Franklin, because it was my first Grammy, first Song Of The Year, first platinum sales. I also love “How Will I Know” by Whitney Houston, my first big super-platinum success. But I love all my music, really.
You have three shows coming up at The Iridium. Why play three nights there instead of one show at a larger venue?
NMW: Because I was asked to do three nights, and I am very honored that I am asked to do three nights. So that’s what we are gonna do! We are gonna blow them all out and have a lot of fun.
Do you remember the first time you ever played at The Iridium?
NMW: I sure do, it was a wonderful affair. So much energy and love in the heart of the New York City. I felt I was shouting out to the world from the heart of New York City. There was so much energy and an incredible exuberance, fire and finesse and energy. I felt a real oneness with the people.
Any idea what your setlist will look like at The Iridium? Do you play any of the songs you produced?
NMW: Yes I do, I play a lot of different things. I keep people guessing as I like to touch upon a lot of stuff from Mahavishnu Orchestra, Jeff Beck, to my own solo career and the hits I’ve done for other people.
Where was your first gig in New York City?
NMW: Probably with The Mahavishnu Orchestra at the Shaefer Music Festival in Central Park. An outdoor concert, an incredible show.
Aside from your upcoming shows in New York, what’s coming up for you? More from your label?
NMW: Everything is hot right now. Discovering new artists, making new music constantly. I am very happy to be making a career with music at this stage in my life and am still inspired…Plus raising two children, a one-year old and a two-year old.
Do you still spend a lot of time working out of Tarpan Studios? Or do you also have a home studio?
NMW: I spend a lot of time at Tarpan Studios doing the music and then at home raising the babies.
Your discography is a who’s who of pop and R&B, but is there an artist you haven’t yet collaborated with but are still itching to?
NMW: I’d love to work with Beyoncé. I’d have liked to have worked more with Prince before he passed away. I’m open to all the people that God wants to bring my way. I don’t block any blessings.
When you’re not busy with music, how do you like to spend your free time?
NMW: I like driving the car with the children, going to TrainTown, or places like nice parks where they can play and have a good time. I really enjoy when the kids are happy.
Finally, Narada, any last words for the kids?
NMW: My words are to stay happy, stay inspired and as my mom always says, “Be kind or leave,” so kindness is very important. And I just want to thank everybody for coming to my shows and supporting me, supporting my music. I am very happy to be able to keep playing music and touching people’s hearts. This is my happiness in life.
