Funk Wav
Biography
Adam Richard Wiles (born 17 January 1984), known professionally as Calvin Harris, is a Scottish DJ, record producer, singer, and songwriter. He was born in Dumfries, Scotland, to English parents. Harris first became interested in electronic music in his teens and began recording demos in his bedroom in 1999. In order to purchase DJ equipment, he worked stocking shelves in supermarkets and in a local fish processing factory.
Career Beginnings
After being discovered through the social networking website MySpace, Harris signed contracts with EMI and Sony BMG in 2006. His debut album, "I Created Disco," was released in June 2007. The album, inspired by 1980s music, featured the successful singles "Acceptable in the 80s" and "The Girls." All 14 tracks on the album were written, produced, and performed solely by Harris. His second album, "Ready for the Weekend" (2009), debuted at number one in the UK, and its lead single, "I'm Not Alone," became his first UK number-one single.
The "Funk Wav" Era
"Funk Wav" is not an artist but the title of a series of albums by Calvin Harris that marked a significant stylistic shift. This era saw Harris move away from the explosive EDM sound that defined his earlier work towards a more laid-back, funk, and soul-infused style.
Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1 (2017)
Harris's fifth studio album, "Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1," was released on June 30, 2017. This album was notable for being his first not to feature his own vocals and was packed with a multitude of high-profile collaborations. The album featured guest appearances from artists such as Frank Ocean, Migos, Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry, Big Sean, and Snoop Dogg. The sound was a departure from his EDM roots, drawing inspiration from dancehall, Motown, and breezy California hip-hop. Key singles from the album included "Slide" (featuring Frank Ocean and Migos), "Heatstroke" (featuring Young Thug, Pharrell Williams, and Ariana Grande), and "Feels" (featuring Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry, and Big Sean). The album was a commercial success, debuting at number two on both the UK Albums Chart and the US Billboard 200.
Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2 (2022)
Five years later, Harris released the sequel, "Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2," on August 5, 2022. Continuing the vibe of its predecessor, the album featured another extensive list of collaborators, including Justin Timberlake, Dua Lipa, Young Thug, Normani, and Halsey. The album was preceded by singles such as "Potion" (featuring Dua Lipa and Young Thug) and "New Money" (featuring 21 Savage). This follow-up further solidified the "Funk Wav" sound, blending funk, disco, and pop with a relaxed, sun-drenched feel.