Roy Ayers’ groundbreaking music fusing soul, jazz and funk has led him to be one of the most influential artists of his generation. Roy spoke to Jason Barnard as Roy Ayers Ubiquity celebrate the 45th anniversary of their classic 1975 album Mystic Voyage with an April 2020 UK tour.
Hi Roy, it’s 45 years since Mystic Voyage. How much of that album will you play when you come over here?
I’m probably going to play a couple of songs. I’ve done 50 albums and it’s very difficult to fit everything in.
Is one of those tracks ‘Brother Green (The Disco King)’? That’s a huge favourite over here.
I haven’t done Brother Green in years. It’s been a long time. You know there’s so many albums, so many songs. I haven’t ever had a request for Brother Green in years. It’s very strange but that’s great.
How do you get to compile a set list?
Yeah, it’s kind of difficult, but it’s cool. There are certain songs that have a sensitivity to certain markets.
Do you know what songs you’ll be playing?
There’s a song called ‘Searching’. It is very strong, especially in the UK. ‘Red, Black and Green’ – I play that quite a bit in the UK, quite a bit since black consciousness. But it’s likely I’ll play a lot of songs.
Is ‘Everybody Loves The Sunshine’ still in your set?
‘Everybody Loves The Sunshine’. Very popular. One of my biggest songs. Yes, everybody gets in a happy mood as it hits the room.
It’s a similar feel with ‘Searching’.
Yeah, exactly, it’s kind of a mood.
Which artist have you collaborated with who you’ve connected with the most?
Well, you know, I love all the saxophone players that I play with. Beautiful experiences. I’ve had a wonderful time with all of the artists.
I assume you’ve got a good band.
Oh, yeah. I come here to play with a great band, excellent musicians.
You’ve played here quite a few times before.
I’ve done so many tours, they usually are good trips. It’s always a pleasure playing for the people.
Well, we’re really looking forward to seeing you.
Oh, yeah. it’s more than likely that I’ll come and go back around.
Great, will you making any new music too?
I’m recording an album later on in April.
Oh, fantastic. So you’ll be in a good shape to record given you’re playing shows.
Oh, yeah. I’ll be in great shape.
Marvellous. Thank you so much for your time, Roy.
It’s my pleasure. Thank you, Jason. I’ll see you on the next trip.
Yes. See you on the next trip.
Roy Ayers Ubiquity celebrate the 45th anniversary of their seminal 1975 album ‘Mystic Voyage’ with a April 2020 UK tour. Tickets are available from: http://bit.ly/Roy-Ayers-Ubiquity
