Lyle Mays Interview: Lyle Smiles - Music Metheny & Magic
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- čas přidán 16. 06. 2024
- I interviewed music legend Lyle Mays in Los Angeles for my BBC Radio 2 series “WHAT IS MELODY?” in 2007. He talks about his first meeting with @PatMethenyOfficial and discusses the composition of their then recent CD, “The Way Up”.
I first met Lyle when he joined the Pat Metheny Group and had the pleasure of working with him on the American Garage album in 1979. I remember being in the studio recording a tune called “The Search” and I suggested that the guitar melody, played on a 12-string might sound great in 3-part harmony. Pat and I discussed it for a couple of minutes and by the time Pat said, “OK, let’s try it”, Lyle had written the arrangement on a pad of paper. Whenever there was a problem in the studio, he would immediately go out to the dining area where he had a travel chess set.
Lyle had both a breathtaking musical talent and a wry sense of humor (as you’ll hear at the end of this interview!) I feel very fortunate to have known him.
Lyle Mays Interview: Lyle Smiles - Music Metheny & Magic
Listen to the podcast FULL version here:
www.podbean.com/eau/pb-knktw-...
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:32 First meeting with Pat Metheny
02:33 A shared Aesthetic
03:06 How Pat & Lyle write music
04:20 "The Way Up"
06:20 Use of Computers
06:54 Pedal Points
08:35 Lyle explains "The Way Up"
09:25 Three note ideas
10:33 Songwriting vs. Composition
11:28 What is melody anyway?
12:01 Use of Computers in Composition
12:15 The triumph of modern capitalism
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Knowing that Lyle Mays is not with us hurts.
Lyle did not deserve to leave this world... I really miss his talent...
If you threw a cold bucket of water on me at 3am and asked "what is your one wish?" I would, without a moment's hesitation, answer with "one more PMG release with Lyle Mays." I'll never get that wish and you have no idea how often I think about that.
I've never heard any other keyboardist in my life that can even approach the ethereal voicings and melodies of Lyle Mays - so inspiring the very BEST and most tasteful player in my lifetime - at least that's my opinion.
Excellent summation of the man.
agreed. No other like him, no other better.
You're not the only one.
...word...Lyle....beyond unique...
He never seems to waste a note.
Lyle's music is essential for my life.
I met Lyle in Brazil in 1993 at a jazz festival. He gave me the pleasure of a half an hour conversation after his show. I'll miss him loads! He was a true gentleman! 💜🎹🎶
I felt terrible when Lyle passed knowing that this great musical genius will no longer be here to create anymore of the beauty we've all come to enjoy over the years.
The Way Up is probably the most ambitious and greatest piece of music I’ve ever heard
Lyle is amazing. God bless.
i miss the man so much. he was one of the greats.
Definitely! Lots more in the vaults so please subscribe!
@@DRRICHARDNILES btw: i do have the ‚pat metheny interviews‘ 🤘✌️👌
rhe pmg....what a group. icons!
@@NeilRaouf Thanks! I feel very lucky to have met Pat in 74 and worked with all those great talents. Danny & Mark played on both of my guitar albums. BTW, their new duo album is fabulous!
For sure ♥️
what a sensitive man and artist! He's connected with universe in past and now, cause he is alive.
I love the Lyle Metheny Group.
I really love and miss Lyle. Rest In Peace my brother. ❤
Lyle and Pat are a part of my life almost every day. Been listening to them for 35 years.
I didn't realize he was part of the way up, wow!! Thank you for posting.
I wish I had him as a teacher. He can explain his (for me) life-defining stuff so eloquently!
Lyle and Pat has defined my adult life, and that dates back to 1983-1984.
Same here, from first listening in Portsmouth NH in 1985 to present day....
A brilliant person. Music especially, but a true polymath with broad interests. Intellect, innovator, athlete and artist. And a true musician’s musician.
The Way up was a true piece of genius composition. Interesting to find out there was nothing written prior to them coming together to make the record. RIP Lyle
RIP Genius of our time ... Play 4 hands in paradise with Mozart ...
When he plays the On The Way Up hook, I still get goosebumps. Have listened to that score at least 1000 times and it only gets better each time.
I know what you mean! The build up is so exciting. I love it. I was fortunate enough to attend a performance of The Way Up in Utrecht, Holland in 2005.
The Way Up is just fucking brilliant
I just started my journey appreciating Pat and Lyles music and am so saddened he has passed. What a genius
Welcome to a large, wonderful group. I started my journey in 1984 and it’s still going as strong as ever. Fortunate to live in the time of Lyle and PMG.
So true! Thanks for your comment and please SUBSCRIBE to not miss any of the rare interviews I'm posting.
@@DRRICHARDNILES Richard do you have any additional Lyle material? Would love to hear more
He and PM were like musical twins. Both so laid back too. Truly great people. Musicians all pass too early!
Music will never be the same. RIP.
I have been immersing myself to Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays for the past 20 years. The more I listen to their philosophy and thought process, the more I begin to "hear" their music in an almost undescribable sensory experience. This interview is so insightful. Thank you.
I feel fortunate to have met Pat in 1974, been able to work with him and Lyle and Danny and Mark. All not only great artists but warm people. Thanks for your comment and please SUBSCRIBE to not miss any of the rare interviews I'm posting.
I feel the same way DMajors.
Thank you for this post Lyle May's was a true creative one of a kind musician. A big fan of his collaboration with PAT Metheny. Group.Sadly taken from us way too early.His legacy will live on.
"Triumph of modern capitalism" segment (11:40 -- 12:20) = genius.
scathing - and spot on.
@@peterg5383 Definitely!
Excellent interview, Lyle was truly a genius, a unique musician
And a lovely guy! Lots more in the vaults so please subscribe!
Hermosa conversación, gracias por este valioso aporte a toda la comunidad admiradora de Lyle!
Thrilled to see this interview…Lyle and Pat have influenced my life and musical ear since I first saw them at my college small venue in 1978 or so.. Had bought their 1st PMG group album. and American Garage just released .. Knew Pat’s music from GB days and Bright Sides Life..
Both gave such musical, emotional force that helped propel me for all of these years, and it continues to be so important as a hopeful beacon .
Lyle’s passing was shocking and reminded me to hold precious, special people and parts of life and music closer, and re-visit it often, as I now do.
What a special spirit.
I am hoping someone who was in Lyle's world will write a definitive biography on him. He was a musical genius. I would love to know more about the musical relationship both he and Pat shared.
You get quite a lot of info on Lyle & Pat from my book the Pat Metheny Interviews.
@@DRRICHARDNILES Indeed. Richard, I would love to see you write a definitive biography on Lyle Mays especially since those who knew him are still around. Please !!!!!!!!!
His father, Cecil--my uncle. Was a solid guitarist too. I remember him playing piano at Grandma's house when I was little and we would toss out song names and if heard it he played it.
Thanks to algorithms I got to listen to this interview. I miss those PMG concerts. I can listen to their music all day long, day after day without getting tired of it.
So sad he is gone. I will miss him forever. Hope I get to see him in heaven.He was just the best.
Thx for once in a life time interview, it is As if I was across from Lyle and Nana at portland state 's Smith memorial center stage dressing room in oregon when I met PMG for the fast time .its been 44 years since this immaculate music has been part of my life. RIP dear Lyle, I hear your music almost every day .
First saw Lyle play at Toad's Place in New Haven, CT around 1982 with the Pat Metheny Group. Still remember his wonderful playing
More Lyle Mays Please
Lyle wasn't a "jazz" musician per se. He is an inventive, original, classical based musician I'd say.
Thanks for sharing this jewel.
THANKS, LYLE.💖🎵
Thanks Richard. Absolutely loved this. I think we all feel like we have lost a dear friend, so hearing Lyle’s voice again is just great.
Such a genius musician I had the privilege to see play many times. Thanks again
Yes, a deeply committed artist and a very witty friend. Thanks for your comment and please SUBSCRIBE to not miss any of the rare interviews I'm posting.
Liked how he broke down The Way Up as starting with a simple melody (with a LOT of potential) that was expanded, twisted, turned inside out, etc.
Great interview Richard, questions that get to the basis of their creativity. So sad he passed a great loss.
Lyle was the greatest disciple of Bill Evans, but while Bill often searched for a more eloquent answer to the musical questions facing him, Lyle was better at FINDING those more eloquent expressions. Lyle completed what Bill started.
Really well done interview there. You obviously knew your subject. And Lyle's answer about the molecules of The Way Up winds up being the most informative answer imaginable.
He was so brilliant and so funny. We really shared a sense of dry humor.
Lovely insight into the minds of the greatest and most underrated musicians of all time, what an amazing player who is sorely missed by everyone.
I loved (and still love Pat. However, Lyle….Lyle struck me as one of the most musical and inspiring improvers of my lifetime. Jaco, Pat, Lyle …I was so blessed to have seen them all. (Pat and Lyle many times).
They carry the tradition of Wes, Evans and and Mr. PC for future generations.
RIP Lyle.
Thanks! Lyle was a wonderful guy and I was lucky to have worked with him. Please subscribe and don't miss any of our great interviews!
Lyle Mays deserves so much much attention and consideration... Such a genius person, and magical musician. Thanks for sharing this interview!
Lyle was a master with a superb sense of humor. Lots more rare and unique interviews on my channel. Please subscribe and support us so we can keep bringing you this great content.
@@DRRICHARDNILES Done! Thanks!
I could had listened this for days, just so intriquing! Appreciate that you did this interview!
Intro fantastica, peccato duri poco ! Lyle sempre nel nostro cuore è emozionante ascoltare la sua voce.
No mention anywhere of cause of death Lyle was unique in so many ways
There are only a hand full of Musicians in this club and Lyle Mays is one of them
That intro music is insane! In a great way. :) Also love to the Brilliant Lyle Mays.
¿Who's the artist of that Intro?
Thank you for sharing this. Lyle was so great and my family miss going to see him and Pat in concert. I so wish that the world could get more of his music.
Such a great interview. Thank you for posting
Nice song!!
Thank you Richard. Loved listening to this. Are there more Lyle Mays interviews?
Best wishes from Malaysia!
Hi, great interview. Lyles Mays remains one of the greatest keyboard players. He has a great technique to serve a great sensitivity. We miss him. Question about your credits. Who is the group that sings? It reminds me of The Singers Unlimited. But knowing their repertoire well, I don't think it's them. Thanks 😊
The vocals are all by the very talented Daisy Chute singing my arrangement. This was the theme song for my BBC Radio series, "What is Melody?" You can get my book "What is Melody?" based on the series, from Amazon, here: www.amazon.com/What-Melody-Dr-Richard-Niles/dp/B09MJ43TGG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=UPNR7ZJUODCQ&keywords=what+is+melody%3F+niles&qid=1655958292&sprefix=what+is+melody+nile%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-1
@@DRRICHARDNILES Thank you for your answer. Does this mean that there is no audio title? Bravo for this arrangement. You must certainly appreciate Gene Puerling a lot... 😊Too bad we can't have your piece. I love it!
I saw them live. Pure class. Rip.
Love Lyle's genius and his incredible sense of sarcasm. Thank you for posting🙏🏻
Yes his senses of humor was legendary & lethal! Lots more in the vaults so please subscribe!
Looking forward to it!
Thank you for posting. I hope that one day they release The way up on vinyl. It is a wonderful piece. Please check out one of Lyle's final pieces called Eberhard. A tribute to one of Lyle's and Pat's musical heroes. Eberhard Weber. One of the most moving pieces of music I have heard in ages. Thank you to Lyle for his wonder and creativity
Eberhard was his last piece from what I've read
Fantastic interview. Thank You!!!
I love these guys
❤🙏
11:28 "What is melody anyway?": Here, Lyle Mays, one of our greatest melody makers of all time, tells the truth about modern pop/rock/flop music.
Thanks Richard!!!! ❤
Thanks, and subscribe to the podcast because I will soon be putting up all the Metheny recordings for my book, THE PAT METHENY INTERVIEWS!
I didn’t know Lyle had such entertaining metaphors. But ironically, I always thought of music as nutritious
Fantastic interview, Lyle was a genius. Subscribed! Would love to hear more
Thank you so much for this!
No, thank you for watching. Please subscribe because I have a lot more great interviews in my vault from the BBC!
That was brilliant material. Many thanks!!!
Thanks for your comment and please SUBSCRIBE to not miss any of the rare interviews I'm posting.
So good, thank you!
Thank YOU for subscribing. There's so much great stuff in my archives and I'm doing many more interviews with my talented friends!
Highly regarded, yet still underated, maybe because of Pats shadOw. So sad to have lost him.
😪 💓
good interview. the riff 10 minutes in: i heard a recording once, it being played live 1978 by pmg, which made me think the idea of "way up" was to go back to beginnings, as a renewed source of inspiration. instead, evidently it was just a bottom drawer idea that served as an accidental launching pad. mays as composer: i would always like to have heard more. but appreciate for what was/is anyways.
Thanks, Owen. There are many more rare interviews coming up so please subscribe to my You Tube Channel so you don't miss any of the hundreds of great things coming up. I'm soon doing an interview and recording of Danny Gottlieb and Mark Egan playing live in the studio and discussing their concepts!
I have a recording of it. It is from a club called Bunkey's in Madison, WI, from 1978. It is an 'untitled' piece but has the main melody of 'The Way Up' clear as a bell. They use it to build up the piece, much like Lyle's 'Close to Home' was played by the PMG in the early eighties. Great interview Richard. I also own and have enjoyed your Pat Metheny Interviews book. Great anecdotal stuff in there regarding the early years.
6:55 J'étais exactement en train de me dire : "vont-ils parler de la métrique si particulière et de l'enchevêtrement continu des grilles rythmiques sur les quatre parties de l'album ?" Nous voilà renseignés. ^_^
I agree and I'm a guitsrist
Richard what year was this made? Obviously after the last PMG album?
2007. After The Way Up.
Thanks, and please subscribe direct to my podcast too. There are MANY more great interviews. Wayne Shorter up today. Michal Brecker with in concert performance coming soon.
Track id intro ?
Please check the end of the Details section.
In the crowd that I hung out with there was a lot of criticism of Lyle's playing. They viewed him as a weak player. Nevertheless, there Lyle was playing with Pat and the music was great! What can you say? Now Lyle is not Keith Jarret but obviously the type of player that anyone would dig collaborating with. I have always liked Lyles keyboard work.
Stefan and his crowd.