The Magic of Simon Law in Burna Boy's Latest Hit

Simon Law, a legendary British songwriter and producer, continues to leave his mark on the music industry with his latest collaboration on Burna Boy's track 'Update.'
March 4, 2025
Want to invest in the music royalties featured in this article?
Become a Royalty Exchange member.
Start Investing

Known for his work with Soul II Soul, Law's expertise in blending diverse musical styles is evident in this vibrant song, which also features a nod to the classic 'Back to Life (However Do You Want Me).' Law's impressive career includes collaborations with artists like Chante Moore, Maxi Priest, and Duran Duran, showcasing his versatility and enduring influence in the music world.

Burna Boy's "Update" Shines with Simon Law's Iconic Touch

"Update," the latest track from Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy, is a vibrant blend of genres, masterfully produced by P2J and others. The song skillfully incorporates elements of Afrobeats and amapiano, creating an infectious dance vibe that nods to its roots with a sample of Soul II Soul's classic "Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)." This connection to the iconic track is further enriched by the involvement of Simon Law, a veteran songwriter known for his work with Soul II Soul. Law's expertise in crafting memorable melodies and his knack for blending different musical traditions add a layer of depth to the song. The creative process behind "Update" involved a seamless integration of nostalgic and modern sounds, resulting in a track that is both a tribute to the past and a fresh addition to Burna Boy's dynamic catalog. With its energetic rhythm and cultural significance, "Update" is poised to make a significant impact, further solidifying Burna Boy's status as a global music icon.

Simon Law: The Versatile Songwriter Behind Iconic Hits

Simon Law, affectionately known as "The Funky Ginger," is a celebrated British songwriter and producer renowned for his extensive contributions to the music industry. With a career spanning decades, he is best known for his pivotal role in the British musical collective Soul II Soul, co-writing timeless hits like "Back To Life (However Do You Want Me)." His work has been instrumental in the group's success, contributing to two Grammy Awards and multiple Brit Award nominations.

Law's journey began in the late 1980s, when he and his sister were signed to Chrysalis Records, marking the start of a prolific career in music. His style is a rich tapestry of soul, funk, jazz, and reggae, reflecting his diverse influences and collaborative spirit. This eclecticism is evident in his solo album "Look To The Sky," which features contributions from artists worldwide.

Beyond his work with Soul II Soul, Simon Law has collaborated with numerous artists, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. His collaborations span genres and include notable names like Chante Moore, Maxi Priest, and Duran Duran. Although there is no current collaboration with Burna Boy, Law's influence and legacy continue to resonate in the music world, making him a revered figure among artists and fans alike.

Top 5 Songs Featuring Simon Law's Songwriting

Discover five standout tracks showcasing Simon Law's songwriting prowess, blending diverse musical influences to create timeless hits across various genres.

Back to Life (However Do You Want Me) by Soul II Soul (Ft. Caron Wheeler)

Back to Life (However Do You Want Me) by Soul II Soul, featuring Caron Wheeler, is a landmark track that defined the sound of late 1980s British music. Upon its release in 1989, the song topped the UK chart and the US Dance and R&B/Hip Hop charts, earning Soul II Soul their first Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. The song's unique blend of reggae and hip-hop elements, combined with Wheeler's emotive vocals, created a sound that was both innovative and influential. Simon Law, known as "The Funky Ginger," co-wrote this timeless hit, bringing his eclectic mix of soul, funk, jazz, and reggae influences to the table. His contributions were instrumental in crafting the song's distinctive sound, helping to cement its status as a cornerstone of British music history.

Shutterbugg by Big Boi (Ft. Cutty)

"Shutterbugg" by Big Boi, featuring Cutty, stands out as a dynamic and innovative track that highlights the creative talents of its collaborators. The song achieved significant success, peaking at number 60 on the U.S. R&B Charts and securing a top 40 position in the UK. It was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2011. The track's fusion of hip-hop with a catchy melody is complemented by Big Boi’s energetic rapping style. Simon Law, a celebrated songwriter known for his work with Soul II Soul, contributed to the song's engaging composition. His ability to blend diverse musical influences added depth to the track, enhancing its appeal and showcasing his versatility as a songwriter.

Mary Boone by Vampire Weekend

"Mary Boone" by Vampire Weekend stands out as a creative masterpiece within the indie rock genre. This track is part of their acclaimed album "Only God Was Above Us," which explores themes of artistic ambition and existential reflection. The song has been praised for its innovative blend of East Coast boom bap, Indian raga, and Baroque music, creating a unique and captivating soundscape. Simon Law, known for his work with Soul II Soul, contributed as a songwriter, bringing his rich tapestry of soul and funk influences to the track. His involvement in "Mary Boone" helped elevate its artistic depth, making it a standout piece in Vampire Weekend's discography.

B2L by LeToya Luckett

"B2L" by LeToya Luckett is a standout track from her third studio album, "Back 2 Life," released in 2017. The song, which samples Soul II Soul's classic "Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)," received positive reviews and peaked at number six on the US Adult R&B Airplay chart. Its soulful and contemporary R&B sound, combined with heartfelt lyrics, resonates deeply with fans. Simon Law, a celebrated British songwriter known for his work with Soul II Soul, contributed to the songwriting, infusing the track with a nostalgic yet fresh vibe. His involvement added a layer of depth and authenticity, enhancing the song's appeal and showcasing his versatile songwriting prowess.

Keep on Movin’ by Soul II Soul (Ft. Caron Wheeler)

"Keep on Movin’" by Soul II Soul, featuring Caron Wheeler, is a landmark track that played a crucial role in defining the late 1980s music scene. Released as part of their debut album, the song quickly climbed the charts, reaching number five on the UK Singles Chart and number 11 on the US Billboard Hot 100, while topping the Billboard R&B charts. Its unique blend of soul, R&B, and dance elements, driven by a hypnotic rhythm, set it apart as a timeless classic. Simon Law, known for his versatile songwriting, contributed significantly to the song's success. His ability to weave together diverse musical influences helped elevate "Keep on Movin’" to iconic status, cementing its place in music history and showcasing the innovative spirit of Soul II Soul.

Simon Law's Lasting Impact on Music

With multiple Grammy Awards and chart-topping hits, Simon Law's catalog is a testament to his exceptional talent and influence in the music industry. As the trend of monetizing music catalogs grows, investing in and selling royalties has become an attractive option for both musicians and investors. Platforms like Royalty Exchange lead the way in providing opportunities for music catalog investments, offering a marketplace for songwriters like Law to capitalize on their work. Given Simon's impressive track record and his ability to consistently produce resonant and enduring music, his catalog represents a valuable investment opportunity. With thousands of investors on the platform who would be thrilled to own a piece of his catalog, Simon Law could benefit from getting a free catalog valuation from the expert team who has overseen hundreds of millions of dollars in transactions and have the flexibility to discover a plethora of deal options. His continued success and innovative contributions ensure that his music will remain relevant and profitable, making Simon Law a key player in the evolving music economy.

Become a Royalty Exchange Member
Sign Up
Get An Instant Catalog Analysis & Valuation
Sign Up
Interested In Royalty Investing?
Sign Up

Creator Stories

Discover The Hidden Lil Wayne Sample In Sexyy Red's Latest Hit
Uncover how artists like legendary artists like Lil Wayne are reshaping modern rap music with their old hits.
Read Post
Snoop Dogg's Legendary Front Porch Performance Brings Back the Magic of Hip Hop's Golden Era
Join us as Snoop Dogg mesmerizes fans with a live set full of nostalgia and innovation
Read Post
The Unsung Heroes of Beyoncé's Grammy Success
Discover the Creative Synergy That Defined a Grammy-Winning Album
Read Post
No items found.