Husband and wife duo Valerie Day and John Smith, collectively known as Nu Shooz, discuss the lengthy creative process that led to the release and success of their transatlantic 1986 smash hit "I Can't Wait."
Portland, Oregon is a place known for its access to the great outdoors, fine wineries and breweries, and a delightfully weird culture. It also cultivated a thriving music scene, supported by multiple clubs where you could see people playing any conceivable style, from classical and chamber music to R&B, Riot Grrrl and Punk.
Latin, Jazz, and Soul music enthusiasts Valerie Day and John Smith were a part of what they call the "golden age" of live music in Portland, and at a certain point, they were even one of the city's top bands, playing up to five days a week. When it seemed that they could be stuck in a rut, along came a funky beat born in their little apartment, one that had several iterations over the course of three years.
A remix by Dutch DJ Peter Slauhuis, however, was the one that propelled the duo to international success and a Grammy nomination as Best New Artist. More than 36 years later, and after stepping away from the touring circuit, Valerie and John remain as creative and prolific as they ever were, while at the same time, enjoying the continued life and legacy of "I Can't Wait."
Show Tracklisting
Nu Shooz on Social Media:
Host and Producer: Diego Martinez
Executive Producer: Nicholas "NickFresh" Puzo
Audio Engineer: Adam Fogel
Follow us on social media: @choonspod
Subscribe to our PATREON: patreon.com/choonspod