Easy Lover: The Unlikely Male-Male Duet That Defined the 1980s
The 1980s were a golden era for duets, with many memorable collaborations between powerhouse male and female singers. However, male-male duets were less common during that time. In 1984, Philip Bailey and Phil Collins defied this trend with their hit song "Easy Lover". The two musicians, who had a shared connection through the Phenix Horns, collaborated on Bailey's album Chinese Wall, with Collins producing the track.
Collins, known for his work with Genesis and as a solo artist, brought his production expertise to the project. The idea for "Easy Lover" came about during a jam session with bassist Nathan East, resulting in a funky and energetic track that stood out from the typical sound of the era. The duo initially thought of the song as a demo but decided it was perfect as it was.
Despite Collins preparing to release his own single, he supported the release of "Easy Lover" as well, believing the two songs could coexist on the radio. His intuition paid off, as the song climbed to the No. 2 spot on the pop charts. The catchy tune and playful lyrics, sung by Collins and Bailey, warn about a deceptive lover who will ultimately leave you heartbroken.
The creation of "Easy Lover" was not without its challenges, as Bailey and Collins had differing opinions on the direction of the album. However, their collaboration resulted in a successful and enduring duet that remains a standout from the 1980s. The song's infectious energy and memorable chorus have solidified its place as a classic duet from that era.