Creating a 2025 R3tarded Valerie Remix Remix: A Tribute to Eric Prydz and Steve Winwood

Hey everyone, it’s Jason (ΙΑΣΩΝ) here, and I’m sharing the journey behind my latest project—a 9-minute remix/mashup of Valerie by Eric Prydz and Steve Winwood. You can check it out here. This track is a labor of love, blending the iconic sounds of both artists into something fresh, vibrant, and true to their original essence. As someone who lives for dance, Zumba, and high-energy workout tracks (123 bpm, anyone?), this remix is my way of overflowing joy through music, as I always aim to do.

The Vision

Inspired by the vibrant energy of Eric Prydz’s original and the soulful depth of Steve Winwood’s Valerie, I wanted to create a remix that bridges their worlds. At 123 bpm and in the key of A—perfect for Zumba or a high-energy workout—this track is my way of reflecting joy and sharing it with you, as I often say: “Fill yourself with joy and overflow to others.”

The Creation Process

This remix was a deep dive into sound design and layering:

• Source Material: I worked with Prydz’s iconic Call On Me and Winwood’s original Valerie, pulling elements from both to build a cohesive mix.

• Acapella Extraction: Using my tools, I isolated Winwood’s vocals, placing them strategically to complement the beat.

• Synth Work: I reimagined the Valerie synths, blending them with Prydz’s style for a fresh yet respectful tribute.

• Structure: The 9-minute runtime allowed me to craft a dynamic flow, ensuring every lyric and beat lands perfectly.

Why This Remix?

This isn’t just a remix—it’s a celebration of music’s ability to connect. The retro vibes of the album art (inspired by the original Call On Me aesthetic) tie into the nostalgic yet forward-looking sound. Whether you’re dancing in Haliburton, ON, or anywhere else, I hope this track gets you moving!

Get Involved

Listen above, share your thoughts, and let’s keep the vibe going. Hit me up if you’re local, and let’s dance it out!

Cheers,
Jason (ΙΑΣΩΝ)