Oliver Heldens is starting off 2024 by heading back to his roots. The Dutch superstar producer has just teamed up with young American up-and-comer Ian Asher to re-imagine Sérgio Mendes’ iconic 1966 worldwide hit, “Mas Que Nada.” In fact, it was Asher who first posted an edit of the original track and went viral. However, the final version of the track is very reminiscent of some of Oliver’s early tracks like Koala and Gecko. The bass, synths and tempo are unmistakably Oliver.
“I’ve always loved the vocals of the timeless ‘Mas Que Nada,’ and over the years, I must’ve played it in hundreds of my DJ sets in several mashups/remixes, which always got great reactions from the crowds,” Oliver Heldens says. “Last year I really liked what Ian did in his initial viral sound with the stuttering/gated vocal drop, so when he approached me to collaborate on it and finish it together, I had no doubts at all! I’m glad I could do my thing with it by adding a funky, distinctive melodic bassline while staying true to Ian’s initial idea, keeping the main focus on the stuttered ‘Mas Que Nada’ vocal. It’s been a pleasure working with Ian, and it’s such an honor to get the approval of the legendary Sergio Mendes!”
“It was fascinating to see the incredible reaction to Ian’s initial sampling of the song.” Sérgio Mendes says. “It’s always flattering when young artists want to reinterpret one of my songs, and I’m eager to see what happens with this release,” said the three-time Grammy Award® winner and Oscar®-nominated songwriter.
Ian Asher adds, “I’m so excited to be working with one of my favorite artists Oliver Heldens, and the Brazilian legend Sérgio Mendes to rework his classic ‘Mas Que Nada’! I first posted a snippet of the edit last summer, and when I did, I had no idea that it would become such a viral moment that would be shared around the world… even being heard by Sérgio, the man himself who made the song famous so many years ago. After getting his blessing and working on it with Oliver, I think we made something that’ll be a weapon on the dance floors for many years to come.”
Check out Oliver Heldens and Ian Asher’s re-imagining of Sérgio Mendes’ iconic track “Mas Que Nada” out now on Easier Said. Enjoy Oliver’s recent 3-hour set from the Brooklyn Mirage too!
