Behind The Mask.

Behind The Mask

The Yellow Magic Orchestra

Originally written by Ryuchi Sakamoto and produced by The Yellow Magic Orchestra in 1978 for a Seiko Quartz wristwatch commercial, then later for their Solid State Survivor album with additional lyrics by Chris Mosdell.

(The YMO were a Japanese Electro Pop band from the late 70’s, early 80’s)

I was a big fan.

Michael Jackson recorded the song with his own additional revised lyrics for the Thriller album in 1982, but disagreements with YMO’s management stopped the release. It was eventually released posthumously in 2010.

I followed Sakamoto’s solo career into the noughties, and still enjoy his work to this day. He’s written many film scores including Silk, Little Buddha and The Revenant. Such an inspirational and accomplished musician.

In recording this song I wanted to indulge myself in the YMO version, but felt the Eric Clapton version was the most accessible. I also wanted to put my own signature on it too, so I hope you find it to be an interesting arrangement of all my favourite parts plus some additional backing vocals and a guitar solo.

Featuring…Rachel Lloyd.

Backing Vocals…
Leighanne Laming.
Kirsten Wilson.
Connie Hope.

Drums…Seb Sweet.

All Keyboards and Guitars…additional incidental music & lyrics – Arny.

Fender ’63 Precision Bass – Pete.

Songwriters:-
Ryuchi Sakamoto, Chris Mosdell.