PAUL OAKENFOLD continues to be an influential force in music.
Over three decades Paul has been instrumental in helping shape the dance music scene, but he has also produced soundtracks and cues for Hollywood blockbuster movies – including Swordfish, Collateral, The Bourne Identity, Matrix Reloaded, and Shrek 2. His eclectic portfolio has given him opportunities to open for megastars like Madonna and U2, as well as to perform at unique locations such as Base Camp Mount Everest, Stonehenge, The Great Wall of China and Area 51.
Paul recently released new single, ‘The World Can Wait’ with Latin multi-Grammy winner Luis Fonsi, the first single from the DJ’s forthcoming studio album ‘Shine On’, due out later this year.
As we wait in anticipation for the new album, we caught up with Paul this week to ask him to talk us through an eclectic selection of music featuring tracks from The Beatles, Dean Martin, John Mayer, Black Coffee, David Guetta and more.
AuDen – Pour Mieux S’unir
First time I heard this song was in Paris a few years back. It was a really wonderful sunny day. I loved the tone of his voice even though I don’t know what he’s singing about. It just moved me. I suppose you can say right time, right place.
Johnny Otis – Willie And The Hand Jive
I have a favourite record store in Los Angeles called The Record Parlour. I would go there and hang out most weeks, learn about forms of music I didn’t know much about, one of them being blues. Daddy Diamond, who owns the store, introduced me to Johnny Otis’ music. And what a guitarist he is! The story goes that Jimmy Hendrix was really influenced by Johnny Otis and this is one of my favorite tracks by him.
Dean Martin – Sway
I think everyone at some point in their life should listen to a Dean Martin record. Those smooth vocals, that character that always seems to have a drink in his hand always puts a smile on my face. This is one of my favorite tracks.
Elle King – Baby Outlaw
I don’t know too much about Elle King, but her voice is very unique and I love this track.
Brandy Butler & The Fonxionaires – Gin & Tonic
I came across this record in Mexico. Initially I thought it was Amy Winehouse. Definitely in that vibe. Just a cool song!
John Mayer – New Light
I really like this song! The rhythm really works well. I could do a wicked remix of this!
The Beatles – Taxman
This is my favourite Beatles song. I just started doing a weekly show on U2’s channel in America. And this still sounds great today and I used it in the show.
Discodeine feat. Matias Aguayo – Singular
Love the rhythm on this! Great workout song!
Black Coffee & David Guetta feat. Delilah Montagu – Drive (Pablo Fierro Remix)
It’s one of my favourite house records. It came out last year and I still play it from time to time.
Paul McCartney & Wings – Band On The Run
I took a road trip down to Hotel California in Mexico. This came on the radio. I hadn’t heard it in years. It still sounded so good!
