Jason Walker and Tony Moran have been close friends since Moran’s #1 reproduction of Walker’s dance smash, “Set It Free.”
Moran calls Walker one of the most talented male vocalists he has ever met. Walker calls Moran “a musical genius.”
This month, the two forces of house music come together once again on a new collaboration, “Ball of Confusion.” It’s a remake of a track made popular by The Temptations in the ‘70s. Back then, it was recorded as a political statement against the Vietnam War, segregation, drugs and crooked politicians. Walker and Moran’s version is a shout out against starvation, war and the hate crimes that plague our society today.
Jason Walker will debut “Ball of Confusion” at Icon on September 19.
How did Ball of Confusion happen?
It was all Tony’s idea. He called and told me he had some stuff for me to check out. I went to his studio, and we cut this track and one more I hope ya’ll get to hear soon.
Were you familiar with the original version recorded by the Temptations?
Yes, and let me say right here and now, there really is no comparison to the original. No one can ever touch The Temptations. Ours is simply an updated twist on a classic.
Isn’t it crazy that 40 years after the original, we still have so many problems plaguing the world?
It often feels like every time we take a step forward, we take one or two back.
How would you describe the sound of the new song?
It is signature Tony: big drums and production, very aggressive with lots of attitude.
When they first saw the sheet music for “Ball of Confusion,” The Temptations didn’t think they would be able to pull off the rapid-fire delivery required for the song. Did you have similar concerns?
I was good with the quick-fire wording. I just had to make sure I had the lyrics right in front of me.
Bass singer Melvin Franklin famously sang the line “and the band played on” in the original. Who performs it on your track?
His name is Ryan Shaw. He’s incredible. He’s actually on Broadway playing Stevie Wonder in Motown. Talk about going full circle!
What do you hope fans take away from your new version?
I hope that they enjoy dance music with a message. It’s just like my girl Inaya Day says, you can take your problems to the dance floor!
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