Nick Rhodes, born Nicholas James Bates, is best known as the keyboardist and founding member of the iconic 80s band Duran Duran. However, beyond his work with the band, Rhodes has also been involved in numerous collaborations and side projects throughout his career. Let’s take a deep dive into some of these lesser-known projects and partnerships that showcase Rhodes’ versatility and creativity.
ARCADIA
In the mid-1980s, during a break from Duran Duran, Nick Rhodes formed the side project ARCADIA along with Duran Duran bandmate Simon Le Bon and drummer Roger Taylor. ARCADIA released their debut album, “So Red the Rose,” in 1985, which was a departure from the sound of Duran Duran and featured a more atmospheric and experimental sound.
The album was a commercial success and spawned hit singles such as “Election Day” and “Goodbye Is Forever.” ARCADIA’s music videos were visually striking and artistic, reflecting Rhodes’ keen eye for aesthetics. The band’s short-lived but impactful career showcased Rhodes’ ability to explore different musical styles and push the boundaries of traditional pop music.
TV MANIA
In the early 1990s, Nick Rhodes teamed up with guitarist Warren Cuccurullo to form the electronic music project TV MANIA. The duo recorded an album titled “Bored with Prozac and The Internet?” which was initially meant to be released in 1995 but was delayed due to label disputes.
TV MANIA’s music was ahead of its time, incorporating samples from television shows and commercials to create a collage of sound that reflected the increasing influence of media in society. The album was finally released in 2013 to critical acclaim, cementing TV MANIA as a pioneering project that showcased Rhodes’ innovative approach to music production.
THE DROWNERS
In 1994, Nick Rhodes teamed up with guitarist Stephen Duffy to form the band The Drowners. The duo released an album titled “Is There Something on Your Mind?” which featured a mix of electronic and alternative rock influences. The Drowners’ music was introspective and reflective, with Rhodes and Duffy exploring themes of love, loss, and longing.
The album received positive reviews for its emotional depth and sonic richness, showing a different side of Rhodes as a songwriter and composer. Although The Drowners did not achieve the same level of commercial success as Duran Duran, their music has endured as a hidden gem in Rhodes’ discography.
COLLABORATIONS
In addition to his own side projects, Nick Rhodes has also collaborated with numerous artists and musicians over the years. One notable collaboration was with the British synthpop band Kajagoogoo, for whom Rhodes produced the hit single “Too Shy” in 1983. The song became a chart-topping success and helped establish Kajagoogoo as a prominent act in the 80s music scene.
Rhodes has also worked with artists such as Blondie, Grace Jones, and Robert Palmer, providing keyboards and production expertise to enhance their sound. His collaborations have spanned genres and styles, demonstrating Rhodes’ versatility as a musician and producer.
One of Rhodes’ most recent collaborations was with the Italian electronic artist Giorgio Moroder on the song “Tony’s Theme” for the 2013 film “American Hustle.” The track featured Rhodes’ signature synth sound and showcased his ability to adapt to different musical contexts while maintaining his unique style.
INFLUENCE AND LEGACY
Nick Rhodes’ contributions to music go beyond his work with Duran Duran, as his collaborations and side projects have showcased his creativity and talent as a musician and producer. Rhodes’ willingness to experiment and explore new musical territories has made him a respected figure in the music industry, with a lasting influence on generations of artists.
As Duran Duran continues to tour and release new music, Nick Rhodes remains a central figure in the band’s creative process, bringing his unique vision and innovative approach to their sound. Rhodes’ legacy as a musician and collaborator continues to inspire fans and fellow artists alike, solidifying his place in music history.
In conclusion, Nick Rhodes’ collaborations and side projects reflect his eclectic taste and creative spirit, demonstrating his ability to transcend the confines of traditional pop music and explore new sonic landscapes. From ARCADIA to TV MANIA, Rhodes has consistently pushed the boundaries of his artistry and left a lasting impact on the music world. As he continues to evolve and experiment, fans can look forward to more exciting projects from this visionary musician.