Horn Charts Series: "Smokin' Out the Window"
Not to sound dramatic, but I wanna die whenever I listen to this amazing live version of “Smokin’ Out the Window”. This band and this arrangement are SO FREAKIN’ GOOD that it kills me! That B major 9th chord in the opening verse is simply stunning. Every band should study this video in order to understand how to successfully adapt a studio version to a live setting.
Even if your group won’t be copying this live version (why not, though?) you’ll be able to use this chart by omitting certain spots—which I have diligently marked for you. There are so many melodies, motifs and hooks throughout this song that it was hard to narrow down what could be transcribed and adapted. Some groups like the horns to double the background vocals whenever possible, but I think that would be overkill here. It’s already covered in horn section work.
Paak and Mars as Silk Sonic have done a great job of imitating and referencing classic 70s soul without going so far as parody, even though so much of this is parody. It’s hard to explain, I guess, but it’s quite a feat.
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See the Horn Charts archive here
In my ongoing effort to distribute correct information and spread goodwill, I'm posting PDF files of my transcribed horn charts for pop/variety band (3-piece: trumpet, tenor sax, trombone). I consider these selections as standard repertoire for the modern commercial musician, so think of these as educational tools to help you get through the gig. Like a Real Book for the pop musician—except with editing.