WEB Hallucinogens, Flatulence, and a Happy Accident: The Story of New Order's "Blue Monday"
Introduction
"Blue Monday" by New Order is widely regarded as one of the greatest dance tracks of all time. However, the story behind its creation is as bizarre as it is captivating. This article delves into the serendipitous events and peculiar circumstances that led to the birth of this iconic masterpiece.
A Studio Session Gone Awry
In early 1983, New Order members Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, and Stephen Morris were working on a demo track at their studio in Salford, England. As they experimented with various sounds, an unexpected accident occurred. Sumner accidentally turned on the wrong tape loop, resulting in a strange, cyclical synth pattern.
The Power of Flatulence
At that moment, hook noticed the distinctive sound of flatulence emanating from his bass amp. Instead of being disgusted, he was intrigued and decided to incorporate it into the track. The flatulent noise added a surreal, almost comedic element to the beat, contrasting with Sumner's mournful vocals.
The Serendipitous Influence of LSD
As the band continued to develop the track, they confided in their friend and frequent collaborator, Joy Division keyboardist Ian Curtis. Curtis was known for his experimental drug use, and he suggested they experiment with LSD to enhance their creativity.
A Drug-Induced Epiphany
Inspired by Curtis's suggestion, Sumner and Hook took LSD. Under the influence of the hallucinogenic, they experienced a profound shift in their perception. They saw the track in a new light and began experimenting with different chords and melodies.
The Birth of "Blue Monday"
As the LSD trip wore off, they returned to the studio and recorded the final version of "Blue Monday." The track perfectly captured the hedonistic atmosphere of the post-punk era and the band's own personal struggles with drugs and mental health.
Conclusion
The creation of "Blue Monday" was a testament to the power of serendipity, creativity, and the unexpected. From a wrong tape loop and a bout of flatulence to the hallucinogenic influence of LSD, a series of seemingly unrelated events came together to produce one of the most iconic and enduring songs in music history.
Comments