“Rather Be” is one of Clean Bandit’s most iconic songs, released on January 17, 2014, as the lead single from their debut album New Eyes. Featuring the soulful vocals of Jess Glynne, the song became an instant success, peaking at #1 on the UK Singles Chart and staying there for four consecutive weeks. It also reached #10 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of the most commercially successful tracks from the British group.
The song was written by Clean Bandit members Jack Patterson and Grace Chatto, along with Jimmy Napes and Nicole Marshall. It was produced by Jack Patterson and won the Best Dance Recording award at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards in 2015.
With its blend of classical-inspired violin melodies and deep house beats, “Rather Be” set a new standard for electronic music and remains one of Clean Bandit’s most celebrated tracks.
2. History of Clean Bandit and the Making of “Rather Be”
Clean Bandit was formed in 2008 in Cambridge, UK, by Jack Patterson, Luke Patterson, Grace Chatto, and Neil Amin-Smith. The group is known for fusing classical instruments with electronic dance music, creating a unique sound that distinguishes them from traditional EDM acts.
“Rather Be” was inspired by the group’s love for classical music, particularly the works of composers like Shostakovich. Jack Patterson, the band’s primary producer, aimed to mix orchestral elements with contemporary electronic beats. The track’s signature violin riff, played by former member Neil Amin-Smith, became one of its most recognizable features.
The song’s lyrics center around a deep emotional connection, expressing unwavering love and loyalty. Jess Glynne’s powerful yet smooth vocals elevate the song, making it both uplifting and anthemic.
3. On the Videoclip: A Cinematic Love Letter to Japan
The official music video for “Rather Be” was released on December 5, 2013, and was directed by Clean Bandit’s own Jack Patterson and cinematographer Joe Dempsey. The video was filmed entirely in Tokyo, Japan, and follows the story of a Japanese woman, played by actress Haruka Abe, who experiences hallucinations of Clean Bandit members appearing throughout her daily life.
A unique storytelling and beautiful cinematography made the video a viral sensation, amassing over 800 million views on YouTube. Japan’s vibrant culture shows off with stunning visuals of Tokyo’s streets, restaurants, and markets.
Surreal, dreamlike storytelling complements the song’s themes of deep love and longing, making the video one of Clean Bandit’s most visually striking works.
4. Talk Nerdy to Me: The Music Theory Behind “Rather Be”
Musically, “Rather Be” stands out due to its fusion of electronic deep house rhythms with classical orchestration. Here are some intriguing aspects of its composition:
- Key: The song is in B♭ Major, a bright and uplifting key that enhances its feel-good vibe.
- Chord Progression: The track follows a vi-IV-I-V (Gm-E♭-B♭-F) progression, which is common in pop music but is played with a syncopated rhythmic groove that gives it a fresh feel.
- Violin Motif: The song opens with a baroque-inspired violin riff, a signature of Clean Bandit’s classical influence.
- Deep House Influence: The bassline and beats are heavily influenced by house music, giving it a danceable, club-ready sound.
- Time Signature: The song is in 4/4 time, but the rhythmic interplay between the melody and percussion creates a sense of movement that makes it stand out.
This blend of classical and electronic elements made “Rather Be” a pioneering track in the mainstream pop landscape.
5. More from Clean Bandit: Albums, Songs, and Must-Watch Videos
If you love “Rather Be,” here are more Clean Bandit tracks and videos worth checking out:
Other Hit Songs by Clean Bandit
- “Rockabye” (feat. Anne-Marie & Sean Paul) – Another chart-topping hit that blends reggae and electronic beats.
- “Symphony” (feat. Zara Larsson) – A powerful ballad with a stunning orchestral arrangement.
- “Solo” (feat. Demi Lovato) – A tropical house-infused breakup anthem.
Albums
- New Eyes (2014) – Features “Rather Be” and other classical-electronic hybrids.
- What Is Love? (2018) – Showcases a more refined EDM-pop sound.
Conclusion
“Rather Be” is a defining track of the 2010s, blending classical elegance with electronic energy to create a timeless hit. Clean Bandit’s innovative approach to music continues to influence the industry, and their catalog remains a must-listen for fans of genre-defying pop.
Whether you’re rediscovering “Rather Be” or diving into Clean Bandit’s discography for the first time, one thing is clear: their unique sound is here to stay.
