Song Riff Offs: Gary Numan and Basement Jaxx

In our new series Song Riff Offs, we look at a popular recent song, and trace the riffs back to their origins. In the spirit of the Gary Numan Pleasure Principle tour, we thought we’d kick things off with an oldy … but a goody.

THE RIFF OFF

THE ORIGINAL

Yes, that’s right – London duo Basement Jaxx utilised a riff from Gary Numan’s track “M.E.” (1979) for their own, “Where’s Your Head At” (2001). So, can we attribute the chart-topping sensation to the genius of Gary Numan? Most definitely. But Basement Jaxx are masters of their own craft, and certainly knew how to do Numan justice.

On the subject, make sure you check out Gary Numan – on tour in Australia now! Until next time…

Larry Heath

Founding Editor and Publisher of the AU review. Currently based in Toronto, Canada. You can follow him on Twitter @larry_heath or on Instagram @larryheath.