About the song
Billy Preston, a name synonymous with funk and soul, released a track in 1971 that would defy expectations and become an instant classic. “Outa-Space” was a departure from the typical vocal-driven songs of the era, a purely instrumental piece that would transport listeners to another dimension.
Preston, a master of the organ and piano, experimented with a new instrument for this track: the clavinet. This electric keyboard, with its distinctive sharp, percussive sound, provided the foundation for “Outa-Space.” Preston played through a wah-wah pedal, adding a dynamic, almost psychedelic quality to the sound. The result was a groove that was both funky and ethereal.
The song was born out of improvisation. Preston would call out chord changes to his backing band, and the music would evolve organically. He later added layers of organ and hand claps, further enriching the sonic tapestry. The name “Outa-Space” perfectly captured the track’s otherworldly feel.
When Preston presented “Outa-Space” to his record label, A&M, they were skeptical. They believed that a purely instrumental track wouldn’t be a commercial success. Despite Preston’s confidence, they decided to release it as the B-side of his single “I Wrote a Simple Song.”
However, radio DJs had a different idea. They began flipping the single, playing “Outa-Space” on the A-side. The response was overwhelming. While “I Wrote a Simple Song” only reached #77 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Outa-Space” soared to #2. Preston’s instincts had been proven right.
The track’s success wasn’t limited to the United States. It also charted in the UK, reaching #44. In addition to its commercial success, “Outa-Space” was also critically acclaimed. It won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance in 1972.
“Outa-Space” remains a timeless piece of music. Its infectious groove, combined with Preston’s masterful musicianship, has made it a favorite among fans of funk, soul, and instrumental music. It’s a testament to Preston’s innovative spirit and his ability to create music that transcends genres and generations.
Video
Lyrics
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’m gon’ send him to outer space
To find another race
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
Pay close attention
Pay close attention
Pay close attention
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
I’ll take your brains to another dimension
Pay close attention
Pay close attention
Pay close attention