how the producer made “Beat It” less “metal”

Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson, a winning combination!

A huge loss for music

On November 3, the music world was saddened to learn of the death of Quincy Jones. A genius trumpeter, but also an extremely talented producer and arranger, the artist will have collaborated with all the biggest names in 20th century music, managing to build bridges between genres: jazz, soul, rap, rock, popwe can say that he was a a true jack of all trades, and a great connoisseur of the music industry. Everyone remembers, for example, the tube “Beat It”, de Michael Jacksonone of the most memorable pieces in the history of music. Well, Quincy Jones was at the helm behind this hit, which radically changed its face.

A less metal “Beat It” thanks to Quincy Jones

Steve Luthaker, guitarist of the group Totowho played the guitar notes that can be heard in the instrumental of “Beat It” (in which we also find Eddie Van Halen), gave an interview to The Guardian in which he explains how Quincy Jones’ work helped make “Beat It” one of the biggest hits of all time. A piece that has almost to be a heavy metal title, almost:

We started in reverse: Michael’s vocals and Eddie’s solo were recorded, but without a metronome. Jeff Porcaro created a click track and a drum part, and I added several very rock guitar parts.

While Quincy Jones was working on “Billie Jean,” he kept a close eye on the making of “Beat It”:

Quincy told us: ‘It’s too Metal, we need to calm things down. I want it to be broadcast on pop radio! Uses a small amp, less distortion.

Advice which will have borne fruit, since “Beat it” is still today well imprinted in all the memories of music lovers. We can say thank you to Quincy Jones for his valuable musical advice!