Chase and Status are London dance/electronic producers Saul Milton and Will Kennard. They’ve had numerous dance hits with their brand of progressive drum ‘n’ bass and this month sees them releasing their new single End Credits featuring Plan B - the theme song for the forthcoming movie Harry Brown starring Michael Caine. We caught up with Will on another hectic day for the boys en route to another sell-out show…
For those who might not have heard of you, how would you describe your music?
“That’s a good question. It’s a mixture of drum n bass, dubstep, rap and we’ve even added some indie elements.”
The new single is End Credits which features Plan B who you’ve worked with before. What qualities does he bring to the mix?
“He’s very creative, has tons of ideas and is always looking for interesting ways to get them across within the music.”
He’s got a starring role in the new Michael Caine film, Harry Brown. Were you or Saul considered for parts?
“He’s got a great part. But no, we were fortunate to get a small part in the music video and they were still concerned that we might look too girly in a scene that shows us running away. We’re pleased to say it was very girly.”
End Credits is the theme music for the movie - how did that come about?
“One day we got a call from Pete Tong who helped put the music score together for the movie and he wanted a piece to play over the rolling end credits of the film. We told him that we had just recorded a song called End Credits with Plan B - he thought we were joking. But yes, it was really weird the way it all came together.”
Do you think it’ll do better than Against All Odds which featured Kano - that got to No.45?
“I think it has every chance because this time everything is in place with regards to promotion, radio, the movie etc. With that last song it had already been on the album for some time before it came out so it suffered a little.”
So how’s the writing for the new album going - any juicy collaborations for us to look forward to?
“It coming along really well and yes, there’s many collaborations in the pipeline. I can’t say more than that right now.”
You’ve also been busy on the production tip - how much of Rihanna’s new album will be down to you?
“Good question? You never can say because these things are kept secret until the last moment but we’ve written five songs with her and are hopeful that at least four will make the final cut.”
What was she like to work with - were you in the studio at the same time?
“She was amazing, very funny, humble and a great voice. She came over to London and we had two weeks with her on two separate occasions. One time Jay-Z and Beyonce were in town so they came down too!”
And remixing for the likes of Snoop Dogg (Snoop Dogg Millionaire), Jay-Z (D.O.A) and The Prodigy (Invaders Must Die) - what’s your approach to remixes?
“It varies - we like to keep some of the original flavour and add something different. The Snoop and Prodigy mixes are so different but represent what we do.”
You’ve kicked off your first UK tour. What’s life on the road been like so far?
“There’s not been much sleep, but it’s been fun. I’m actually talking to you from the tour bus – it’s got all mod cons with over 20 beds. We’re in sunny Hull for tonight’s show.”
You’ve also played with N.E.R.D. Is it true that Pharrell called you the most exciting producers in the UK today?
“Yes he did actually, he watched us play our set and there’s plans to try and work together at some point.”
So with that in mind who would you like to produce/work with next?
“Drake - he’s an exciting talent, a great rapper and he’s also very deep with it.”
What are you currently listening to on your Ipod?
“Miike Snow, we saw his show - he’s amazing.”
Watch Chase & Status’ End Credits featuring Plan B below.
Chase & Status’ single End Credits is out November 2nd.
(Andrew John)
