"Thing of Gold" is a song by the American jazz fusion band Snarky Puppy, known for their intricate compositions and exceptional musicianship. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
Genre Fusion: "Thing of Gold" is a fusion of various musical genres, including jazz, funk, and world music. Snarky Puppy is known for seamlessly blending these styles into their compositions, creating a unique and innovative sound.
Grammy Award-Winning: Snarky Puppy won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance in 2014 for their recording of "Something" featuring Lalah Hathaway. This recognition helped bring the band's music to a wider audience.
Family of Musicians: The band was formed in 2004 by bassist Michael League, who also serves as the band's leader and primary composer. Over the years, Snarky Puppy has featured a rotating cast of incredibly talented musicians. Many members of the band have collaborated with other well-known artists and pursued their own solo careers.
Live Album: "Thing of Gold" was first featured on Snarky Puppy's live album, "GroundUP," which was recorded during a three-day music festival of the same name in Miami. The album captures the band's dynamic live performance and improvisational skills.
YouTube Success: Snarky Puppy gained significant popularity through their YouTube channel, where they often upload live performance videos. One of their most famous videos is the recording of "What About Me?" from the "We Like It Here" album, which has garnered millions of views.
Diverse Influences: The band draws inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, including jazz legends like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock, as well as contemporary artists such as Radiohead and J Dilla. This eclectic mix of influences contributes to their unique and ever-evolving sound.
Collaborations: Snarky Puppy is known for collaborating with a variety of musicians from around the world. They have worked with vocalists, instrumentalists, and even orchestras, creating a diverse and expansive discography.
Multiple Grammy Wins: Snarky Puppy has won several Grammy Awards, including Best Contemporary Instrumental Album for their albums "Sylva" (2016) and "Culcha Vulcha" (2017). Their success at the Grammy Awards reflects their critical acclaim and popularity within the music industry.
Educational Outreach: In addition to their performances and recordings, Snarky Puppy is committed to music education. They often conduct workshops and masterclasses for aspiring musicians, sharing their knowledge and passion for music with the next generation of artists.
"Thing of Gold" exemplifies Snarky Puppy's ability to create intricate and captivating compositions that push the boundaries of contemporary jazz and fusion music. It remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band's exceptional musicianship.