Jasper Jams: Old Hits Remixed and Reimagined

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Sometimes a song just needs a little tweaking to give it new life. This week Jasper Jams presents a few old hits that have been remixed for your listening pleasure. Whether slowed down or sped up, only slightly changed or reworked almost beyond recognition, these edits and remixes are fun updates on some classics. After you listen to these versions, also give the original a listen to appreciate the work and creativity that goes into a quality remix.

1) “Rock with You” by Michael Jackson (The Reflex Revision)

While the late King of Pop has a new album of unreleased music due out May 13, this update makes his 1979 hit sound brand new. The Reflex puts in a few more strings, slows down the beginning and makes a few more subtle changes that really add up.

2) “Jammin” by Bob Marley (Benny Benassi Remix)

Benny Benassi is a legendary name in the dance music scene. Here he takes an iconic song from another legend and turns it into a powerful EDM track. Make sure you turn up your speakers for this one.

3) “Say My Name” by Destiny’s Child (Cyril Hahn Remix)

This rework is one of those ones that might have you scratching your head at first. Cyril Hahn reuses the lyrics and not much else from the 1999 smash hit “Say My Name.” While you might not think the smooth R&B tune from Bey and the girls could be turned into a somewhat dark, deep house track, it works.

4) “Ready or Not” by The Fugees (Lucas Chambon Remix)

Chambon speeds up the vocals of Lauryn Hill and rest of The Fugees for this remix. While fans may be disappointed that it does not keep the hip-hop sound of the original, his version still makes for a good listen.

5) “Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye (Autograf Remix)

“I Heard it Through the Grapevine” is an American Motown classic. Gaye’s version of the song was actually not the original, but is probably the most famous. It has been covered by several other artists over the years, most notably by Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1970. Autograf takes Gaye’s edition of the song and updates it with some added bass guitar, drums and electronic backing.

6) “Tragedy” by The Bee Gees (Forever Kid Remix) 

The Bee Gees were featured in the “Nu Disco meets Old Disco” Jasper Jams a couple of weeks ago. They return again this week with a remix by Forever Kid of their 1979 song “Tragedy.” Right from the gate his version hits hard and fast in way that can best be described as funky fun.

7) “Going Back to Cali” by The Notorious B.I.G. (Viceroy “Jet Life” Remix)

Viceroy is a remix wizard who excels at giving songs a beachy summer vibe. While it was hard to pick from his many great remixes, this rework of “Going Back to Cali” is arguably his best. Steel drums and Biggie; what more could you ask for?