He's Like You - Patrick Cowley
"He's Like You" is a track by Patrick Cowley, a pioneering electronic music producer and artist known for his innovative work in the disco and Hi-NRG genres. Released in 1981, the song is a prime example of Cowley's signature sound, characterized by pulsating synthesizers, driving rhythms, and hypnotic melodies. The theme of "He's Like You" revolves around desire, longing, and the search for connection. The lyrics, although sparse, convey a sense of yearning and passion, underscored by the infectious energy of the music. Cowley's production is masterful, blending elements of disco, electronic, and funk to create a dynamic and immersive sonic experience. One notable fact about "He's Like You" is its use of the iconic Oberheim OB-X synthesizer, which Cowley was known for incorporating into his music. The rich textures and lush tones of the OB-X contribute to the song's lush and atmospheric quality, adding depth and dimension to the overall composition. Overall, "He's Like You" is a standout track in Patrick Cowley's discography, showcasing his talent for crafting compelling and evocative electronic music that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Patrick Cowley
Patrick Cowley was an influential electronic music artist, producer, and DJ born on October 19, 1950, in Buffalo, New York. He is best known for his pioneering work in the genre of Hi-NRG, a style of dance music that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Cowley grew up in upstate New York and showed an early interest in music, learning to play the piano at a young age. He later studied electronic music at the City College of San Francisco, where he honed his skills in synthesizer programming and music production. In the late 1970s, Cowley began working with the record label Megatone Records, where he produced a string of influential dance tracks that helped define the Hi-NRG sound. His collaborations with artists such as Sylvester and Paul Parker became instant classics in the gay disco scene of the time. One of Cowley's most famous works is his 1981 album "Menergy," which features the title track that became a major club hit and helped solidify his reputation as a pioneer of electronic dance music. His use of synthesizers and drum machines in his productions was groundbreaking and inspired a new generation of electronic music producers. In addition to his work as a producer, Cowley was also a talented DJ, known for his energetic and eclectic sets that blended disco, funk, and electronic music. He performed at clubs and events around the world, earning a dedicated following of fans who appreciated his innovative approach to dance music. Tragically, Cowley's career was cut short when he passed away from complications related to AIDS in 1982 at the age of 32. Despite his untimely death, his legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire artists in the electronic music scene to this day. Patrick Cowley's impact on music can be seen in the lasting influence of his pioneering work in electronic dance music. His innovative use of synthesizers and drum machines helped shape the sound of Hi-NRG and laid the groundwork for the electronic music genres that followed. He is remembered as a visionary artist who pushed the boundaries of what was possible in electronic music and continues to be celebrated for his contributions to the genre.