Yussef Dayes’ poignant single ‘The Light’ offers a glimpse into forthcoming album ‘Black Classical Music’
Yussef Dayes, the internationally acclaimed artist, producer, and master of multiple instruments, has unveiled his latest single, ‘The Light.’
This introspective track offers a glimpse into his highly anticipated debut solo album, “Black Classical Music,” scheduled for release on September 8.
‘The Light’ is a deeply personal composition that celebrates the birth of Dayes’ daughter, Bahia Dayes. Born in February 2020, just before the pandemic storm hit, she brought an iridescent glow into his life.
“‘The Light’ celebrates the birth of my daughter Bahia Dayes. Born in February 2020, just before the whirlwind of Covid, a beautiful light came into my life. 2020 turned out to be one of the most special times in my life. Becoming a father to my beautiful princess Bahia, being able to take time from touring and nurture my family at home was something I’ll cherish forever. ‘The Light’ is a Dayes lullaby song. The sweet harpsichord is a sound that Bahia was captivated by, although it was also a song she fell asleep too. An ode to Stevie Wonder’s ‘Isn’t she Lovely’ I wanted to add Bahia’s voice from footage & voice notes I’ve recorded over the last few years since her birth. Bahia introduces the song and shares her positive affirmations with her mum; something she can’t go to sleep without doing now. Thank you to Rocco Palladino on bass, Charlie Stacey on harpsichord and keys, Miles James on guitar and production, recorded by Christoph Skirl at Echo Zoo studios, Rory Cashmere on co-production & Russell Elevado on the beautiful mix. Love.” – Yussef Dayes
The track elegantly captures the essence of those profound moments, with Bahia’s voice-note recordings adding a heartfelt touch to the melody.
Dayes’ artistic vision extends beyond sound, as he takes the reins of the music video’s direction. The video weaves in snippets from family archives, holidays, and live performances, offering a candid glimpse into the artist’s life and journey.
“Black Classical Music,” spanning an impressive 19 tracks, serves as a milestone in Dayes’ already remarkable career. With his distinctive drumming style and Rocco Palladino’s bass lines at the core, the album ventures into diverse sonic landscapes. Collaborators like Charlie Stacey and Venna, along with notable artists like Chronixx and Masego, contribute their distinct voices, resulting in an eclectic musical canvas.
Central to the album’s themes are family and legacy, intricately woven into the fabric of the compositions. The inclusion of recordings from Dayes’ family members, along with traces of his childhood home, infuses the album with a genuine and intimate touch.
With ‘The Light,’ Yussef Dayes provides a preview of his upcoming album, “Black Classical Music.” The track’s introspective beauty, combined with Dayes’ signature artistry, sets the tone for an album that promises depth, diversity, and a genuine connection to the artist’s journey.
As the release date approaches, fans eagerly anticipate the full tapestry of emotions and melodies that Yussef Dayes is set to unveil.
‘The Light‘ is out now, buy/stream here.
TRACKLIST
1. Black Classical Music ft. Venna & Charlie Stacey
2. Afro Cubanism
3. Raisins Under The Sun ft. Shabaka Hutchings
4. Rust ft. Tom Misch
5. Turquoise Galaxy
6. The Light ft. Bahia Dayes
7. Pon Di Plaza ft. Chronixx
8. Magnolia Symphony
9. Early Dayes
10. Chasing The Drum
11. Birds of Paradise
12. Gelato
13. Marching Band ft. Masego
14. Crystal Palace Park ft. Elijah Fox
15. Presidential ft. Jahaan Sweet
16. Jukebox
17. Woman’s Touch ft. Jamilah Barry
18. Tioga Pass ft. Rocco Palladino
19. Cowrie Charms ft. Leon Thomas & Barbara Hicks
