Nathan East – “Serpentine Fire” (Feat. Eric Clapton, Phil Collins, & Members Of Earth, Wind & Fire)
It’s a bit out of the ordinary to premiere a track that was recorded 25 years ago, but we can take exception to what might as well be a reunion of living legends (dramatic, yes, but fair). In an effort to jumpstart their solo careers, Nathan East, the veteran bassist with over 2,000 album credits, and his brother Marcel recorded a cover of “Serpentine Fire” with Eric Clapton and Phil Collins. The 1991 recording sat untouched until this year, when it was discovered in Patti Austin’s basement. Following the unearthing, Philip Bailey, Verdine White, and Ralph Johnson of Earth, Wind & Fire added some finishing touches on the microphone, bass, and drumkit, and the track was officially done. This EW&F cover is the second single from Reverence, East’s forthcoming album of originals and covers alike. Check out this half-old, half-new star-studded fever dream of funk below.
Reverence is out 1/20 via Yamaha Entertainment Group.