About the song

“Outa-Space” by Billy Preston is an electrifying instrumental track that blends funk, soul, and rock into a high-energy groove. Released in 1971 on his album I Wrote a Simple Song, this track marked a significant breakthrough for Preston, not only showcasing his virtuosic keyboard skills but also establishing him as a key figure in the funk movement. The song is driven by Preston’s dynamic use of the clavinet, an electric keyboard that gives the track its distinctive, spacey sound. Combined with a rhythmic, funky beat, “Outa-Space” feels both futuristic and deeply rooted in the soulful grooves of its time.

Billy Preston, often referred to as the “Fifth Beatle” due to his contributions to their later albums like Let It Be and Abbey Road, had already earned a reputation as an extraordinary session musician. But “Outa-Space” truly put him on the map as a solo artist. The song was co-written by Preston and his longtime collaborator, Joe Greene, and it became an unexpected hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Preston a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance in 1973.

“Outa-Space” was innovative for its time, combining elements of funk, rock, and even hints of jazz, creating a sound that felt both timeless and cutting-edge. The track’s infectious rhythm and catchy keyboard riff quickly made it a favorite on the radio and in dance clubs, helping to further popularize the clavinet in funk and rock music throughout the 1970s.

As an instrumental, “Outa-Space” stands out for its ability to convey a sense of fun, freedom, and experimentation without the need for lyrics. It remains one of Billy Preston’s most memorable and celebrated songs, a track that showcases his talent not only as a keyboardist but as a pioneer in blending different musical genres.

Video

https://youtu.be/jqFd7JKThdA