Madeline Edwards has been making waves in the music industry with her unique blend of country, soul, and jazz influences. Her latest project, a cover of Beyoncé’s “Halo” for Apple Music’s Nashville Sessions, is a testament to her versatility and talent. However, behind every great artist, there’s a team of skilled musicians who help bring the vision to life. One such collaborator is Kip Allen, the talented drummer whose contributions to this cover are nothing short of spectacular.
Bringing the Beat to “Halo”
Recording drums for a song as iconic as “Halo” is no small feat. The original track, with its powerful orchestration and cunning production, sets a high bar. Kip Allen’s approach to this cover was to honor the spirit of the original while infusing it with a fresh, Nashville-inspired sound.
Kip’s drumming on “Halo” is both a tribute to the original and a showcase of his own artistry. He manages to capture the song’s emotional depth and grandeur while adding a new layer of rhythmic complexity. His use of dynamics and timing breathes new life into the track, making it feel both familiar and new.
The Recording Process
Recording in Nashville, known for its rich musical history and cutting-edge studios, provided the perfect backdrop for this project. Kip Allen’s drumming was recorded at Apple Music’s state of the art studio.
The process began with a deep dive into the original track. Kip listened to Beyoncé’s “Halo” multiple times, analyzing the nuances of the percussion and the overall feel of the song. This step was crucial in understanding how to approach the cover.
Once in the studio, Kip worked closely with Madeline Edwards and the production team to craft a drum track that complemented her vocal performance. His setup included a mix of traditional and modern drum kits, allowing him to experiment with different sounds and textures. This blend of old and new is a hallmark of Nashville’s music scene, and it shines through in the final recording.
Techniques and Innovations
One of the standout aspects of Kip Allen’s drumming on this cover is his use of dynamics. He expertly navigates the song’s peaks and valleys, using soft, delicate touches during the verses and building up to powerful, resonant hits in the chorus. This dynamic range adds emotional weight to the song and highlights Madeline Edwards’ vocal prowess.
Final Thoughts
Kip Allen’s drumming on Madeline Edwards’ cover of “Halo” is a masterclass in blending respect for the original with innovative musicianship. His contributions elevate the track, adding depth and texture that make it stand out. For fans of both artists, this cover is a must-listen, showcasing the best of what Nashville’s music scene has to offer.
Madeline Edwards’ Nashville Sessions cover of “Halo,” featuring Kip Allen’s incredible drumming, is now available on Apple Music. Be sure to give it a listen and experience the magic for yourself.
