The saxophone melody from Men at Work’s hit song “Who Can It Be Now?” is iconic and instantly recognizable. Its distinct rhythmic phrasing and catchy melodic contour are key elements of the song’s success. Transcriptions and interpretations of this saxophone line, often referred to as the song’s “hook,” are widely available for musicians to learn and play. These resources typically provide the musical notation, allowing saxophonists to recreate the memorable riff.
This instrumental line significantly contributes to the song’s overall impact and lasting popularity. The saxophone’s timbre adds a unique flavor to the track, differentiating it from other popular music of the early 1980s. Learning to play this melody provides musicians with valuable practice in articulation, rhythm, and melodic phrasing, while also offering a connection to a significant piece of musical history.
Further exploration of this topic can delve into the specifics of the saxophone’s role within the song’s arrangement, analyze the melodic structure and harmonic context of the riff, and discuss the impact of Greg Ham’s performance on the song’s enduring appeal. Additional areas of interest include the broader musical context of the song within the new wave genre and the cultural significance of the saxophone in popular music.
1. Iconic Melody
The term “iconic melody” aptly describes the saxophone riff in Men at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?” Its immediate recognizability stems from a combination of factors: a simple, yet distinctive melodic contour; rhythmic interest created through syncopation; and a memorable timbre provided by the alto saxophone. This melody functions as the song’s primary hook, effectively capturing the listener’s attention and contributing significantly to the song’s enduring popularity. Its impact is demonstrable through its widespread recognition across generations and its frequent use in various media, solidifying its status as a key element of popular culture.
The melody’s effectiveness is further amplified by its placement within the song’s structure. Appearing at the beginning and recurring throughout, it establishes a sonic identity that becomes inextricably linked with the song itself. This repetition, combined with the melody’s inherent catchiness, reinforces its memorability. The riff’s simplicity also allows for easy adaptation and performance across various musical contexts, from casual singalongs to professional saxophone interpretations. This adaptability contributes to its continued presence in popular music discourse.
In conclusion, the saxophone melody in “Who Can It Be Now?” exemplifies the concept of an iconic melody. Its distinctiveness, memorability, and adaptability contribute to its widespread recognition and enduring impact. Analysis of this melody offers valuable insights into the elements that contribute to a musical hook’s effectiveness and its potential for cultural significance. The melodys simplicity belies its complexity and impact, demonstrating how a few well-crafted notes can resonate with audiences for decades.
2. Catchy Rhythm
The rhythmic structure of the saxophone riff in “Who Can It Be Now?” is crucial to its catchiness and memorability. This rhythm, played on the alto saxophone, contributes significantly to the song’s overall impact and enduring popularity. Understanding its components provides valuable insight into the effectiveness of the riff.
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Syncopation
The prominent use of syncopation, where notes are played off the beat, creates a sense of rhythmic surprise and anticipation. This rhythmic displacement adds a dynamic quality to the riff, making it stand out and capturing the listener’s attention. Syncopation is a common technique in popular music, but its application in this particular riff is especially effective due to its placement and interaction with the melodic contour.
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Repetition and Variation
The rhythmic motif is established early in the song and repeats with slight variations throughout. This repetition reinforces the rhythmic hook, ensuring its memorability, while the subtle variations prevent monotony. The interplay between repetition and variation keeps the listener engaged without disrupting the overall rhythmic flow.
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Interaction with Melody
The rhythm and melody of the saxophone riff are inextricably linked. The rhythmic phrasing complements the melodic contour, creating a synergistic effect that enhances the overall impact. The rhythmic accents emphasize specific melodic intervals, further contributing to the riff’s memorability and distinct character.
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Influence of Ska and Reggae
The rhythmic feel of the saxophone riff hints at influences from ska and reggae music, genres known for their offbeat rhythms and syncopation. This subtle influence adds another layer of complexity to the riff, contributing to its unique character and differentiating it from other pop music of the time.
The interplay of syncopation, repetition, melodic interaction, and genre influences creates a rhythmically compelling and memorable saxophone riff. This rhythmic complexity, combined with the melodic hook, contributes significantly to the lasting impact and continued popularity of “Who Can It Be Now?”. It serves as a strong example of how effective rhythmic construction can elevate a musical piece to iconic status.
3. Distinctive Tone
The distinctive tone of the saxophone solo in “Who Can It Be Now?” plays a crucial role in the song’s immediate recognizability and lasting impact. This tone, produced by Greg Ham on an alto saxophone, contributes significantly to the overall sonic character of the piece. Several factors contribute to this unique sonic fingerprint, making it a key element in the song’s success.
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Timbre of the Alto Saxophone
The inherent timbre of the alto saxophone, with its bright, slightly reedy quality, plays a foundational role in the distinctive tone. Compared to other saxophones like the tenor or soprano, the alto possesses a mid-range frequency emphasis that lends itself well to melodic lines and blends effectively within the overall instrumentation of the song. This specific tonal quality contributes significantly to the riff’s memorability.
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Ham’s Performance Technique
Greg Ham’s individual playing style further shapes the saxophone’s tone. His articulation, breath control, and embouchure (mouth position on the mouthpiece) all contribute to subtle nuances in the sound. These performance nuances, while difficult to quantify, add a layer of expressiveness and individuality to the riff, setting it apart from generic saxophone performances.
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Recording and Production Techniques
The recording process and production choices made during the song’s creation also influence the saxophone’s sonic characteristics. Microphone selection, placement, and signal processing techniques such as equalization and compression all contribute to shaping the final recorded tone. These studio techniques enhance certain frequencies, control dynamics, and add depth to the sound, further distinguishing it from a live performance.
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Interaction with Other Instruments
The saxophone’s tone exists within a sonic landscape created by the other instruments in the song. The interplay between the saxophone, guitars, bass, drums, and keyboards creates a specific sonic environment that contributes to the overall tonal character of the piece. The saxophone’s tone is perceived in relation to these other instruments, and its distinct quality allows it to cut through the mix and remain prominent.
The distinctive tone of the saxophone solo in “Who Can It Be Now?” is a result of the interplay between instrument choice, performance technique, production decisions, and interaction with other instruments. These factors combine to create a unique sonic fingerprint that contributes significantly to the song’s enduring popularity and immediate recognizability. The saxophone’s tone is not merely a supporting element but a defining characteristic of the song, solidifying its place in popular music history.
4. Greg Ham’s Performance
Greg Ham’s saxophone performance is inseparable from the iconic “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone notes. His unique playing style and musicality are integral to the riff’s enduring appeal, elevating it beyond a simple melodic line to a memorable and recognizable musical statement. Analyzing his contribution provides insight into the interplay between musician and instrument in creating a truly iconic musical moment.
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Melodic Phrasing and Articulation
Ham’s phrasing choices, including breath control and note articulation, contribute significantly to the riff’s character. His subtle variations in timing and emphasis give the melody a conversational quality, adding a human touch to the otherwise repetitive motif. The specific way he attacks and releases each note, along with the spaces between them, creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience. This nuanced phrasing elevates the melody beyond a series of notes, injecting it with personality and musicality.
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Tone and Timbre
Ham’s distinctive tone, achieved through his embouchure and breath control, further distinguishes the riff. The slightly reedy quality of his sound, characteristic of the alto saxophone, is enhanced by his individual playing style. This distinctive timbre contributes to the overall sonic fingerprint of the song, making it instantly recognizable. The tone is not merely a product of the instrument, but a direct result of Ham’s interaction with it.
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Improvisational Elements
While the core melody remains consistent, Ham’s performance incorporates subtle improvisational nuances, particularly in live versions. These slight deviations from the studio recording add spontaneity and freshness to each rendition. This improvisational approach, while restrained, contributes to the riff’s dynamic nature and prevents it from sounding overly mechanical or repetitive. It demonstrates Ham’s musicality and ability to inject personality into even a short, iconic phrase.
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Emotional Resonance
Beyond technical proficiency, Ham’s performance imbues the riff with emotional resonance. The combination of melodic phrasing, tone, and subtle improvisation creates a sense of playful mystery, perfectly complementing the song’s lyrical themes. This emotional depth elevates the riff beyond a simple musical hook, transforming it into a powerful expression that connects with listeners on a deeper level.
Ham’s contribution to “Who Can It Be Now?” extends beyond simply playing the notes; his performance is essential to the riff’s enduring impact. The interplay between technical skill, musicality, and emotional expression solidifies its place as one of the most recognizable and iconic saxophone riffs in popular music history. His performance serves as a compelling example of how an artist can elevate a simple melodic line to a work of art.
5. Alto Saxophone
The alto saxophone’s intrinsic characteristics are essential to the sonic identity of the “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone riff. The instrument’s range, timbre, and responsiveness contribute significantly to the riff’s memorability and impact within the song. Selecting the alto saxophone, as opposed to a tenor or soprano saxophone, directly influenced the riff’s construction and overall effect. The alto’s mid-range frequency emphasis allows the melody to cut through the mix without sounding shrill or being overshadowed by other instruments. This allows for a clear presentation of the rhythmic and melodic nuances that characterize the riff. Had a different saxophone been employed, the resulting sonic texture would have altered the listener’s perception and potentially diminished the riff’s impact.
The alto saxophone’s relatively compact size and keywork system facilitate the execution of the riff’s rapid note changes and intricate rhythmic patterns. This agility contributes to the playful and energetic feel of the melody. Examples of other popular songs featuring prominent alto saxophone melodies, such as “Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty, further illustrate the instrument’s suitability for creating memorable and catchy hooks. The alto’s versatility allows for both smooth legato passages and sharp staccato notes, enabling the performer to create a dynamic and engaging musical statement. This dynamic range is evident in the “Who Can It Be Now?” riff, where the interplay between sustained notes and quick rhythmic bursts contributes to its distinctive character.
Understanding the alto saxophone’s role in shaping the “Who Can It Be Now?” riff provides valuable insight into the relationship between instrument choice and musical expression. The specific characteristics of the alto saxophoneits timbre, range, and playabilityare integral to the riff’s success. Recognizing this connection underscores the importance of considering instrumental characteristics when analyzing or composing music. The careful selection of an instrument is not merely a practical consideration, but a crucial artistic decision that shapes the final product and its impact on the listener. This awareness enhances the appreciation and understanding of musical compositions and their construction.
6. Mixolydian Mode
The Mixolydian mode contributes significantly to the distinctive character of the saxophone riff in “Who Can It Be Now?”. This mode, a diatonic scale with a major feel and a flattened seventh degree, creates a unique melodic flavor that sets the riff apart from conventional major or minor tonalities. The flattened seventh creates a characteristic interval, a dominant seventh chord, that lends a bluesy or slightly unresolved quality to the melody. This inherent tension adds to the riff’s intrigue and contributes to its memorability. The Mixolydian mode’s use in this context aligns with its broader application in popular music genres like rock, blues, and funk, where its distinctive sound adds a touch of complexity and character.
Understanding the Mixolydian mode’s influence provides a deeper appreciation for the riff’s construction. The choice of this mode is not arbitrary; it directly impacts the listener’s perception of the melody and contributes to the overall emotional effect of the song. Comparing the riff’s melodic contour to a standard major scale highlights the crucial role of the flattened seventh. This single interval alteration creates a subtle yet significant shift in the melodic character, adding a layer of complexity that resonates with listeners. Further analysis reveals how the Mixolydian mode interacts with the underlying harmony, creating a sense of tension and release that enhances the musical narrative. This interaction between melody and harmony is a crucial aspect of musical composition and contributes significantly to a piece’s overall impact.
Recognizing the Mixolydian mode’s role in shaping the “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone riff enhances one’s understanding of musical analysis and the impact of modal choices on melodic construction. This knowledge can inform both the appreciation and creation of music. By understanding the underlying theoretical framework, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the nuances of musical composition. Similarly, composers can utilize this understanding to craft melodies with specific emotional and stylistic characteristics. The Mixolydian mode, as exemplified in this iconic riff, serves as a valuable tool for creating memorable and distinctive musical statements.
7. Syncopation
Syncopation is a crucial element of the “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone riff, contributing significantly to its rhythmic drive and infectious quality. By displacing rhythmic accents off the main beats, syncopation creates a sense of surprise and anticipation, propelling the melody forward and engaging the listener. Understanding syncopation’s role in this iconic riff provides insight into its effectiveness and broader application in music.
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Off-Beat Accents
The riff’s rhythmic signature is defined by prominent off-beat accents. These accents occur on the weak beats of the measure, disrupting the expected rhythmic flow and creating a sense of rhythmic tension. This deliberate placement of notes off the beat generates a sense of forward momentum and rhythmic interest, making the riff particularly catchy and memorable.
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Interaction with Melody
Syncopation in the riff is not merely a rhythmic device; it interacts closely with the melody. The placement of syncopated notes emphasizes specific melodic intervals, enhancing their prominence and contributing to the overall melodic contour. This interplay between rhythm and melody creates a synergistic effect, strengthening the riff’s impact and memorability. The syncopation emphasizes the unique melodic shape, contributing to the riff’s distinctiveness.
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Genre Influence (Ska/Reggae)
The syncopated rhythms in “Who Can It Be Now?” hint at influences from genres like ska and reggae, known for their off-beat rhythmic emphasis. This stylistic connection adds a layer of complexity and historical context to the riff. The incorporation of these genre influences contributes to the song’s unique character within the broader landscape of 1980s pop music. This subtle nod to other musical traditions enhances the riff’s appeal and adds to its rhythmic richness.
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Creating Groove and Momentum
Syncopation is essential for creating the driving groove that underpins the riff. By disrupting the regular pulse, syncopation generates a sense of rhythmic instability that propels the music forward. This forward momentum is crucial for maintaining listener engagement and creating a sense of excitement. The interplay of syncopated rhythms with the steady underlying beat creates a dynamic tension that contributes to the riff’s infectious quality.
The strategic use of syncopation in the “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone riff is essential to its lasting impact. It contributes significantly to the riff’s rhythmic interest, melodic definition, and overall groove. By understanding how syncopation functions in this specific context, one gains a deeper appreciation for its power and versatility as a musical tool. The effective deployment of syncopation elevates this simple melodic phrase into a truly memorable and iconic musical statement.
8. Repetitive Motif
The “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone riff’s effectiveness hinges significantly on the principle of the repetitive motif. This compositional technique, involving the reiteration of a short musical phrase, establishes a memorable hook and contributes to the song’s overall catchiness. Examining the specific application of this technique within the riff reveals its impact on the listener and its contribution to the song’s lasting popularity.
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Memorability and Catchiness
The riff’s core melodic and rhythmic idea is repeated throughout the song, solidifying its presence in the listener’s memory. This repetition ensures that the melodic hook becomes ingrained, contributing significantly to the song’s catchiness. The repetitive nature allows for easy recognition and recall, even after a single hearing. This contributes to the song’s ability to remain lodged in the listener’s mind, increasing its popularity and longevity.
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Building Tension and Release
While the motif itself remains largely consistent, subtle variations in its presentation create a sense of dynamic evolution. The repetition establishes a sense of anticipation, while subtle rhythmic or melodic alterations provide a satisfying sense of release. This interplay between repetition and variation keeps the listener engaged without disrupting the overall flow and familiarity of the riff. The subtle shifts prevent the repetition from becoming monotonous while still maintaining the core motif’s recognizability.
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Simplicity and Effectiveness
The motif’s simplicity is key to its effectiveness. Its concise melodic and rhythmic structure allows for easy comprehension and retention. This simplicity does not equate to a lack of sophistication; rather, it demonstrates the power of a well-crafted, concise musical idea. The motif’s straightforward nature allows it to be easily grasped by listeners, contributing to its widespread appeal and enduring popularity.
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Creating a Sense of Unity
The recurring saxophone motif acts as a unifying element throughout the song. Its consistent presence ties together different sections of the composition, providing a sense of cohesion and familiarity. This recurring element serves as a sonic anchor, grounding the listener and reinforcing the song’s overall structure. The repetitive motif contributes to the song’s overall coherence and memorability.
The “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone riff demonstrates the power of the repetitive motif in popular music. Its application within the song highlights how repetition can be used effectively to create a catchy, memorable, and unified musical experience. By understanding the role of repetition, one gains a deeper appreciation for the song’s construction and lasting impact. This analysis provides valuable insight into the compositional techniques used to create a truly iconic and memorable piece of music.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section addresses common inquiries regarding the iconic saxophone riff from Men at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”. The information provided aims to clarify misconceptions and offer further insight into this memorable musical phrase.
Question 1: What saxophone is used in “Who Can It Be Now?”?
Greg Ham played an alto saxophone for the song’s distinctive riff.
Question 2: Is the saxophone riff difficult to play?
While the riff’s core melody is relatively simple, accurately replicating Ham’s nuanced phrasing and tone requires practice and attention to detail. Specific techniques like breath control, articulation, and embouchure contribute significantly to the overall effect.
Question 3: What musical mode is used in the saxophone riff?
The riff is primarily based on the Mixolydian mode, which gives it a characteristic bright yet slightly bluesy feel due to the flattened seventh degree.
Question 4: Are there sheet music transcriptions available for the saxophone riff?
Numerous transcriptions and interpretations of the saxophone part are readily available online and in print, catering to various skill levels.
Question 5: How does syncopation contribute to the riff’s impact?
Syncopation, the placement of rhythmic accents off the main beats, creates a sense of rhythmic surprise and momentum, making the riff particularly catchy and memorable.
Question 6: What other songs feature similar saxophone riffs or styles?
While “Who Can It Be Now?” possesses a unique character, one can find similar uses of the alto saxophone and rhythmic approaches in songs influenced by ska, reggae, and new wave music from the same era.
Understanding the elements contributing to this iconic riff allows for a deeper appreciation of its musical construction and lasting impact. The interplay of melody, rhythm, tone, and performance technique creates a musical statement that continues to resonate with listeners.
Further exploration could delve into the song’s overall composition, lyrical themes, and cultural significance within the context of 1980s popular music. Additional areas of study might include the broader impact of the saxophone in popular music and the influence of various musical genres on shaping this iconic sound.
Tips for Mastering the “Who Can It Be Now?” Saxophone Riff
These tips provide guidance for musicians aiming to learn and perform the iconic saxophone riff from Men at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”. Focus is placed on key aspects of the performance, offering practical advice for improving technique and musicality.
Tip 1: Understand the Mixolydian Mode: The riff’s distinct melodic character derives from the Mixolydian mode. Familiarizing oneself with this mode’s unique intervallic structure, particularly the flattened seventh, is crucial for accurate intonation and phrasing. Practicing scales and arpeggios in the Mixolydian mode will aid in internalizing its melodic characteristics.
Tip 2: Master the Rhythmic Syncopation: Accurate rhythmic execution is essential. Pay close attention to the placement of off-beat accents, ensuring precise timing and rhythmic feel. Practicing with a metronome and focusing on the interplay between the syncopated notes and the underlying beat will enhance rhythmic accuracy and groove.
Tip 3: Emulate Greg Ham’s Tone: While precise replication is challenging, aspiring performers should strive to capture the essence of Greg Ham’s tone. Experimenting with embouchure, breath control, and reed selection can help achieve a similar bright, slightly reedy timbre. Listening closely to the original recording provides a valuable reference point.
Tip 4: Focus on Articulation and Phrasing: The riff’s expressiveness lies in its nuanced articulation and phrasing. Pay attention to the way notes are attacked and released, aiming for a balance between smooth legato passages and sharp staccato notes. Studying Ham’s performance reveals the subtle variations in timing and emphasis that give the riff its distinctive character.
Tip 5: Practice with a Backing Track: Practicing with a backing track simulates a real performance environment, allowing one to focus on blending the saxophone part with the other instruments. This practice also helps develop a sense of timing and rhythmic interplay within the context of the full song.
Tip 6: Transcribe and Analyze: Transcribing the riff by ear or utilizing existing transcriptions provides valuable insights into its melodic and rhythmic structure. Analyzing the transcription helps identify patterns, understand phrasing choices, and develop a deeper understanding of the riff’s construction.
Tip 7: Record and Listen Back: Recording practice sessions and listening back objectively allows for critical self-assessment. This process helps identify areas for improvement in tone, rhythm, and phrasing. Regular recording and critical listening contribute to continuous refinement of performance skills.
By focusing on these key elements, musicians can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone riff. Consistent practice, combined with careful attention to detail, will ultimately lead to a more accurate, expressive, and musically satisfying performance.
Ultimately, mastering this iconic riff requires dedication and a genuine appreciation for its musical nuances. Through diligent practice and thoughtful analysis, musicians can unlock the secrets of this memorable musical phrase and develop the skills to perform it with accuracy, expression, and style.
The Enduring Legacy of “Who Can It Be Now?” Saxophone Notes
Exploration of the “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone notes reveals a confluence of musical elements contributing to its iconic status. The Mixolydian mode’s unique melodic character, coupled with skillful rhythmic syncopation, creates a memorable hook. Greg Ham’s performance, imbued with nuanced phrasing and distinctive tone on the alto saxophone, elevates the riff beyond a simple melodic line. The repetitive motif’s strategic deployment further solidifies its presence in popular culture. Analysis of these elements provides valuable insight into the interplay of musical components in crafting a truly memorable and enduring musical phrase.
The riff’s continued resonance within popular music underscores the power of effective melodic construction, rhythmic ingenuity, and skillful performance. Its study offers valuable lessons for musicians and enthusiasts alike, highlighting the impact of seemingly simple musical ideas when executed with precision and artistry. The “Who Can It Be Now?” saxophone notes serve as a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted music to transcend time and remain etched in collective cultural memory. Its legacy encourages further exploration of the elements that contribute to musical longevity and the power of individual notes to resonate across generations.
