Included in the pack are a variety of voices which simulate classic electronic piano sounds. The unique sounds of these pianos were a result of their particular construction, in which metal tines or reeds were struck by hammers, with the sound then amplified by electromagnetic pickups. In the Vintage Keyboard pack, Yamaha has created voices which masterfully emulate both the reed and tine variations of these 'electro-mechanical' electronic pianos.
In addition to the recreation of these well known electric piano sounds, this pack includes voices from two of Yamaha’s most popular keyboard models, the legendary Yamaha DX7 and the Yamaha CP80.
With these new sounds on the way, it's a perfect time to revisit some of the songs that made these vintage keyboards famous. Take a look below for some examples:
- Superstition - Stevie Wonder
Superstition is one of the most instantly recognizable songs in pop music, and one of Stevie Wonder's biggest hit's of all time. This track features layers and layers of the "Funky Clav". You can believe in things you don't understand with this MIDI file. - Boogie Oogie Oogie - A Taste of Honey
Here's an example of the Funky Clav used outside of funk music. In the age of Disco, this song was a chart topper! Its walking bass line intertwined with the Clavinet is enough to make anyone want to Boogie Oogie Oogie till they just can't boogie no more! - Hard Habit to Break - Chicago
The Yamaha DX7 was the first synthesizer to receive commercial success, and acclaim from critics and musicians alike. Chicago built "Hard Habit to Break" around this vintage keyboard's classic sound, and now you can play along with your Yamaha keyboard. - Summer in the City - The Lovin Spoonful
The Lovin' Spoonful made good use of the electric piano on "Summer in the City". This vintage keyboard delivers a synthesized piano sound, mixed with overtones that sound similar to the harpsichord. - Get Back - The Beatles and Billy Preston
The Beatles' "Get Back" features a prominent electric piano line played by Billy Preston. The piano solo in this song is what contributed to the first ever songwriting credit outside the Beatles' three main songwriters, with a credit to Billy Preston himself.
Keep your eyes peeled for more information about these new voices and packs in the coming weeks.
- Doug