Will.i.am has shared fascinating details about the inspiration behind the Black Eyed Peas’ hit song “I Gotta Feeling.” In a recent interview on Apple Music 1’s Deep Hidden Meaning, Will.i.am revealed that the 2009 track was influenced by U2’s iconic song “Beautiful Day.”
The journey of “I Gotta Feeling” began with a beat from DJ David Guetta, which Will.i.am received while working on U2’s album No Line On The Horizon. He described the beat as originating from Guetta’s remix of “Love is Gone.” Will.i.am aimed to craft a chorus that would blend elements of Earth, Wind & Fire, U2, and Talking Heads. He envisioned a chorus with the vibe of Maurice White from Earth, Wind & Fire, and a “Woo-hoo” that channeled Bono’s style from U2. He even admitted to writing the chorus as a response to U2’s “Beautiful Day,” hoping to capture a similar uplifting spirit.
Will.I.Am- ‘I Gotta Feeling’
Will.i.am also discussed his work on Usher’s international hit “OMG,” which he created after a call from Usher’s A&R, Mark Pitts. Pitts requested an “international hit,” prompting Will.i.am to combine elements from his previous work, including the “Boom Boom Pow” drums, and incorporate a bassline-inspired vocal style reminiscent of Violent Femmes.
Tune in to hear the full interview this Saturday, August 10th, at 2 PM BST on Apple Music 1.
Stream Will.I.Am’s ‘I Gotta Feeling’ here.
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