Feature: Ricardo y Rey Decodes “Estar Contigo”
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind "Estar Contigo" and the story it tells?
“Estar Contigo” is a song about aspirational love, and about maintaining focus. Sometimes the path to our goals is obscured but with trust, hope, and dedication, there is a comfort in knowing that no matter what happens, everything is going to be ok.
What did you enjoy most about making "Estar Contigo?"
“Estar Contigo” was on the hard drive for quite some time. We dusted it off, tweaked the melody and added elements of reggaeton and the classic Latin pop ballad. We were joined by dear friends on the upright bass and soprano sax and it became a beautiful new thing, all its own. We took the essential raw materials and transformed them into gold - It was alchemy.
How does this single fit into your overall artistic vision?
Ricardo and I are musicians who are drawn to an eclectic pallet of musical styles. We can’t help mixing it up! “Estar Contigo” is typical of this approach: elements of Afro Puerto Rican bomba, an 80 bpm reggaeton beat, strumming folk rock guitars, jazz bass, and soprano sax a la Kenny G, all topped off with layered harmonies meant to go straight for the heartstrings.
How do you approach creating something new and different?
It’s our regular practice for a session to create something that literally didn’t exist the day before. Staying open to the tiny gems bestowed by the universe is a challenge and a miracle each time it happens. We approach making music as an opportunity to craft and carve the good and bad thrown at us everyday into something life affirming. So we start small and go where the spirit guides us.
Can you share a memorable experience from a collaboration that enriched your music?
Both Ricardo and I have shared the stage with so many amazing musicians and idols of ours from around the world. From multiple residencies in Lagos, Nigeria with the Fela Band and Femi Kuti, to touring with (Grammy nominated) Antibalas and Grammy-winner Miguel Zenon, to recording with Stevie Wonder and sharing a Grammy with India Arie, we have been incredibly blessed. Hopefully, we are able to bring these blessings across in this most recent collection.
