Released in 2011 as part of the album Solidarity Breaks, C’mon Talk is one of the most iconic songs by Norwegian singer-songwriter Bernhoft. The track gained widespread recognition due to its infectious rhythm, soulful vocals, and unique live-looping technique. While it didn’t dominate mainstream charts, it became a viral hit, particularly through live performances on YouTube and television appearances.
The song was written and composed entirely by Jarle Bernhoft, who is known for his ability to layer multiple instruments and vocals using looping technology. What sets C’mon Talk apart is its raw, organic feel—each sound in the recording was created by Bernhoft himself, from beatboxing to harmonizing and intricate guitar work.
His performance on C’mon Talk captivated audiences worldwide, particularly after a breathtaking live rendition on Ellen DeGeneres’ show in 2011. The song not only showcases Bernhoft’s talent as a multi-instrumentalist but also his deep-rooted passion for soul and funk music.
WHO IS BERNHOFT?
Jarle Bernhoft, known mononymously as Bernhoft, is a Norwegian musician with a deep love for soul, funk, and R&B. He first gained attention as the lead vocalist of the Norwegian rock band Span, but after the group disbanded in 2005, he embarked on a solo career that allowed him to explore his own unique style.
Bernhoft’s music is heavily influenced by legends like Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, and Prince. His ability to combine vintage soul sounds with modern looping techniques makes him stand out in the contemporary music scene.
After Solidarity Breaks brought him international recognition, Bernhoft continued to release music that pushed creative boundaries. His later albums, including Islander (2014) and Humanoid (2018), showcase his evolving artistry while maintaining his signature groove and heartfelt lyricism.
ON THE VIDEOCLIP
The music video for C’mon Talk is as innovative as the song itself. Directed by Michael Baldwin, the video is a perfect visual representation of Bernhoft’s one-man-band approach. The clip is filmed in a single-take style, featuring Bernhoft moving through an apartment while gradually layering different sounds—starting with a simple beat and building up to a full, rich musical arrangement.
This video effectively captures the essence of his looping technique, making it feel like a live performance rather than a traditional music video. The use of clever camera work and smooth transitions keeps the viewer engaged, while Bernhoft’s charismatic performance adds an extra level of energy.
Though the video doesn’t feature professional dancers or choreographed sequences, its fluidity and natural progression mirror the dynamic and spontaneous nature of the song. It’s a visual experience that feels authentic and immersive, much like Bernhoft’s live performances.
TALK NERDY TO ME
Musically, C’mon Talk is a fascinating study in groove and harmonic layering. Here are some key elements that make it so compelling:
- Key and Chord Progression: The song is in the key of E minor, with a chord structure that revolves around soulful minor progressions often found in funk and R&B.
- Looping Structure: Bernhoft expertly uses a loop pedal to create a layered composition, adding elements such as beatboxing, vocal harmonies, and intricate guitar riffs.
- Rhythm and Groove: The song heavily relies on syncopation, giving it an irresistible groove that makes it nearly impossible to sit still while listening.
- Vocal Performance: His falsetto flourishes add a signature touch to the song, reminiscent of Stevie Wonder’s vocal style.
- Instrumentation: Though performed by a single artist, C’mon Talk gives the impression of a full band, thanks to Bernhoft’s ability to multi-layer guitar, basslines, percussion, and vocals seamlessly.
This combination of technical skill, soulful vocals, and rhythmic complexity makes C’mon Talk a masterpiece of modern solo performance.
MORE FROM BERNHOFT
If you loved C’mon Talk, there’s plenty more from Bernhoft to explore. Here are some standout tracks and performances that showcase his diverse talents:
- “Choices“ – A groovy, bass-driven track from Islander, blending electronic and acoustic elements.
- “Stay With Me“ – Not to be confused with the Sam Smith hit, this song captures deep emotion with its stripped-down acoustic arrangement.
- “No Us, No Them“ – A powerful song from Humanoid, carrying themes of unity and social consciousness.
- “Streetlights“ – A heartfelt ballad with a bluesy touch that showcases his raw vocal ability.
Bernhoft’s music is an experience—whether through a recorded track, a stunning live performance, or a simple music video, his artistry remains consistently captivating.
FAQs
Where is Bernhoft from?
Bernhoft is from Norway, born in the town of Nittedal.
What genre is C’mon Talk?
The song blends elements of soul, funk, and pop, creating an infectious groove-driven sound.
How does Bernhoft create his songs live?
Bernhoft uses a loop pedal to layer different instruments and vocal harmonies in real-time, building up the song piece by piece.
What album is C’mon Talk from?
It is from the album Solidarity Breaks, released in 2011.
Has Bernhoft won any awards?
Yes! He has received a Spellemann Award (Norwegian Grammy) and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album for Islander.
Is Bernhoft still making music?
Absolutely! Bernhoft continues to release new music and tour internationally, maintaining his reputation as a unique and innovative artist.
CONCLUSION
C’mon Talk is more than just a song—it’s a testament to Bernhoft’s musical ingenuity and soul-driven artistry. With its infectious rhythm, heartfelt lyrics, and groundbreaking looping technique, it remains one of his most beloved tracks. Whether you discovered it through a viral video, a live performance, or the album itself, one thing is clear: Bernhoft has crafted something truly special with C’mon Talk.
If you haven’t yet, dive into more of his work—you won’t regret it.
