Originally composed in 1596 by John Dowland, ‘Flow My Tears‘ is leased a new life in the 21st Century through the work of arranger John Aram and R&B/classical vocalist Ayanna Witter-Johnson. Aram craftily blends delicate strings and techno beats to create a track recognisable for today’s listeners. He is transforming John Dowland’s work into a song for the now. Theatrical and cinematic, Aram plays a tasteful homage to Dowland after the artist wanted to revive his piece, and he has been successful for sure. Aram explains, “I thought of the similarities with this ancient song and the structure of modern-day pop songs which in many ways is still quite similar. I wanted to create something that was ‘modern’ using techniques from today’s current sounds and adapt these to the melody and lyrics of a song written 400 years ago“.
Aram is no stranger to navigating the music industry. Graduating from The Royal Academy of Music in London, John Aram has enjoyed a freelance career working alongside many of Britain’s leading orchestras. Experienced in recording for various television and radio collaborations, including Columbia pictures, Aram has also been writing, arranging, and playing alongside Phil Collins, currently co-leading The United Underground Orchestra with Tim Garland. There is no doubt ‘Flow My Tears’ will make its home in period pieces and drama drenched television series.
With the additional talent of impeccable vocalist Witter-Johnson, ‘Flow My Tears’ is enhanced by the well thought out flourishes and runs, aiding to bring the lyrics and arrangement forward to today. The archaic and fresh pair beautifully. Ayanna Witter-Johnson was the best choice for the track, releasing her own material, EP’s and a debut album ‘Road Runner’, receiving airplay across multiple BBC Radio channels, the coveted Jazz FM and Scala Radio, as well as featuring on BBC One London News and London Live.
‘Flow My Tears’ is available now. For fans of Nora Jones, Laura Mvula and Celeste.
Want to find out more? You can find John Aram and Ayanna Witter-Johnson below:
Words by Olivia Barnes