Episode notes
You might not recognize Nile Rodgers, who began his music career as part of the purposely faceless band Chic — but you’d for sure know his music if you heard it. He founded Chic with bassist and friend Bernard Edwards, and launched a string of hits including “Le Freak” and “Good Times”, and went on to become a songwriting and producing superstar with a tried-and-true formula.
The anthem “We are Family”? That’s one of his, too. He was behind Diana Ross’ “I’m Coming Out”, David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance”, Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” and many more. Now, he reflects on decades of hitwriting, the legacy of disco, and the meaning of music in his life.
His new memoir, out now, is Le Freak: An Upside Down Story of Family, Disco, and Destiny.
Track list:
Le Freak- Chic– The Best of Chic
Good Times- Chic– The Best of Chic
Everybody Dance- Chic– The Best of Chic
My Feet Keep Dancing- Chic– The Best of Chic
I’m Coming Out- Diana Ross– Diana
Let’s Dance- David Bowie– Let’s Dance
New York City- I’m Doin’ Fine Now [single]
Cold Gin- Kiss– Alive
Ladytron- Roxy Music– Roxy Music
Sister Sledge- We Are Family [single]
In this episode...
Guests
- Nile Rodgers
About the show
Bullseye is a celebration of the best of arts and culture in public radio form. Host Jesse Thorn sifts the wheat from the chaff to bring you in-depth interviews with the most revered and revolutionary minds in our culture.
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