A renowned figure from the nineties dance scene recently shared a surprising encounter he had with a member of the legendary group, Bee Gees. N-Trance, famous for their hit “Set You Free,” made an unexpected move in 1995 by releasing a cover of Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive,” featuring the late Ricardo d Force.
Nearly twenty years after the original song’s debut on the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, N-Trance put tremendous effort into releasing their cover, initially intended as a one-time project with no plans for future covers. Kevin O’Toole, a founding member, disclosed to Mirror that despite their initial intentions, the success of their version of “Stayin’ Alive” – selling over three and a half million copies – left their former record label eager for more.
Reflecting on the Bee Gees’ era in the 1960s and 1970s, Kevin mentioned that the group was not considered “cool.” However, their cover of “Stayin’ Alive” brought unexpected approval from Barry Gibb, who appreciated their rendition. Even though N-Trance had to enlist impressionists to mimic the Bee Gees’ voices, the authenticity of their cover remained intact. The group also had the opportunity to meet the Bee Gees backstage at a concert in Blackpool, where they exchanged light-hearted banter with Maurice Gibb.
As time passed, N-Trance ventured into covering Sir Rod Stewart’s “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” which posed challenges due to Stewart’s initial reluctance towards the song. Despite hurdles, they managed to secure Stewart’s approval by involving another singer for the cover. Kevin reflected on the group’s hiatus and subsequent return, expressing surprise at how quickly time had flown by.
The group’s latest single, “Higher,” aims to capture the essence of N-Trance’s signature style with a contemporary twist. Kevin expressed pride in their musical legacy, highlighting the universal appeal of their music that transcends generations and boundaries. Furthermore, the group’s experiences during video shoots and tours have added layers of depth to their journey.
Following their enduring success, Kevin’s establishment of his own record label marks a new chapter for N-Trance, no longer relying on major labels. The group members emphasize the importance of artistic freedom and creative autonomy in their music-making process. “Higher” is now available on various streaming platforms, showcasing N-Trance’s evolution while staying true to their musical roots.
The group’s story continues to resonate with fans, offering a glimpse into the dynamic world of music production and performance. Through their dedication and passion for music, N-Trance continues to leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide, bridging the gap between past and present musical landscapes.