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A viral video shared on TikTok revealed how Solange’s critically acclaimed hit “Cranes in the Sky” came to be under the direction of artist, songwriter and producer, Raphael Saadiq. Read more about the song’s creation and watch the viral clip inside.
Saadiq is the man behind some of the greatest hits from artists D’Angelo, Total, Earth, Wind & Fire and more. More recently, he shared an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Solange’s beloved song, “Cranes in the Sky.” This lesser known fact proves that Saadiq has a massive influence on music, and it also highlights the collaborative spirit that brought one of contemporary R&B’s standout tracks to life.
In the TikTok video, Saadiq delved into the origins of “Cranes in the Sky,” revealing that the song’s journey began years before Solange became involved. He explained that he had crafted the instrumental, a hauntingly beautiful melody, during his travels across various cities.
“I played this melody everywhere I went, hoping to find the right artist who could bring it to life,” Saadiq shared. His patience and crafting the record is surely one of the reasons it has become a staple in music today.
Solange’s entry into the project happened as soon as she listened to the instrumental. He recalls that she felt an immediate connection to its melancholic yet hopeful tones.
“When Solange heard the track, she knew it was something special,” Saadiq recounted. “Her lyrical genius transformed the melody into an introspective masterpiece.”
Solange’s ability to blend profound lyrics with Saadiq’s soulful instrumentation resulted in a song that resonates deeply with listeners, addressing themes of self-healing and emotional struggle.
The collaboration between Saadiq and Solange is a perfect example of how two artists can elevate each other’s work. Saadiq’s expertise in crafting rich, layered sounds provided the perfect canvas for Solange’s evocative storytelling and attention to musical detail. Together, they created a track that not only showcases their individual talents but also their ability to harmonize creatively.
“Cranes in the Sky” has since become a beloved anthem, earning widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Saadiq’s TikTok story offers fans a small glimpse into the song’s creation, emphasizing the importance of patience, collaboration, and mutual respect in the artistic process. As Saadiq continues to influence the music landscape, his work with Solange serves as a shining example of the magic that happens when talented minds come together with a shared vision.
