Bryan Ferry, singer, songwriter
When I was five, I heard “Prisoner of Love” by the Ink Spots, which I suspect inspired “Slave to Love.” My Auntie Enid’s husband brought the record home from Europe where he was stationed with the armed forces. I still have the 78 RPM single.
I penned the lyrics for “Slave to Love” in a New York hotel room, pacing the floor at night. I wanted something simple and memorable, a hit for everyone. The first line set the scene: “Tell her I’ll be waiting / In the usual place / With the tired and weary / And there’s no escape.”
Transitioning from Roxy Music to a solo career, I had the world at my fingertips. I collaborated with talented musicians like David Gilmour, David Sanborn, and Nile Rodgers. The guitar solo in the middle featured the skills of Gilmour, Keith Scott, and Neil Hubbard. Neil Jason’s bass-playing added a perfect swing to the track.
I filmed the video for “Slave to Love” in Paris with Jean-Baptiste Mondino, showcasing a chic and stylish vibe. Despite technical difficulties during the first live performance at Live Aid, the song gained popularity quickly and has been featured in numerous films. It’s rewarding when people connect with the emotions you express in your music.
Rhett Davies, producer
I first crossed paths with Bryan when I engineered a track on his 1974 solo album. Our collaboration continued through Roxy Music’s albums and Bryan’s solo projects. The evolution of Roxy’s sound from Manifesto to Avalon was marked by our collaborative approach in the studio.
For Bryan’s “Boys and Girls” album, we started with just his voice and electric piano at his Sussex home before moving to studios in London and New York, including Bette Midler’s soundproof room. The track “Slave to Love” went through various iterations before reaching its final form.
Bryan’s passion for straightforwardly emotional music is evident in “Slave to Love,” with the iconic cowbell adding to the intensity. The meticulous recording process, including the unique snare drum sounds captured in New York, culminated in a track that brought us immense joy upon completion.
“Bryan Ferry’s Retrospective: Selected Recordings 1973-2023” is now available, showcasing the journey of a legendary artist through his music.