B.E.F.
Albums
Facts about B.E.F.
B.E.F., short for British Electric Foundation, is a British music production company and musical collective formed in 1980 by Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh, formerly of the electronic band The Human League. B.E.F. is known for its innovative production techniques, collaborations with a wide range of artists, and contributions to the electronic music genre. Here are several key facts about B.E.F.:
Formation and Early Years: B.E.F. was formed in 1980 by Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh following their departure from The Human League. The duo, along with producer Greg Walsh, aimed to create a platform for experimental electronic music and innovative production techniques. B.E.F.'s early work was influenced by the burgeoning electronic music scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s, with an emphasis on synthesizers, drum machines, and sampling.
Music of Quality and Distinction Series: One of B.E.F.'s most notable projects is the "Music of Quality and Distinction" series, which features collaborations with various artists covering classic songs from the past. The series began in 1982 with the release of the album "Music of Quality and Distinction Volume One", which featured artists like Tina Turner, Sandie Shaw, and Billy Mackenzie covering songs by artists such as The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and David Bowie. Subsequent volumes were released in 1991 and 2013, showcasing B.E.F.'s enduring commitment to reinterpreting classic songs through a contemporary electronic lens.
Collaborations and Productions: B.E.F. has collaborated with a diverse range of artists across different genres, including pop, rock, and soul. In addition to their work on the "Music of Quality and Distinction" series, B.E.F. has produced albums for artists such as Terence Trent D'Arby, Billy Mackenzie, and Boy George. Their production work is characterized by its innovative use of synthesizers, drum machines, and sampling techniques, which helped shape the sound of electronic music in the 1980s and beyond.
Legacy and Influence: B.E.F.'s contributions to the electronic music genre have had a lasting impact on the music industry. Their pioneering use of synthesizers and electronic production techniques helped pave the way for the emergence of electronic dance music and synth-pop in the 1980s. B.E.F.'s collaborations with diverse artists also helped bridge the gap between different musical genres, showcasing the versatility and potential of electronic music as a creative medium.
Ongoing Projects and Activities: Although B.E.F. has been less active in recent years, Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh continue to work on various musical projects both individually and collaboratively. Their influence can still be felt in the music of contemporary electronic artists, many of whom cite B.E.F. as a key inspiration. As pioneers of electronic music production, B.E.F. remains an important and influential force in the music industry, with their innovative approach to music production continuing to inspire artists and producers around the world.