Acclaimed bassist Tony Saunders is bringing new energy to two timeless R&B favorites with the release of his latest single, a creative mashup of Mark Morrison’s “Return of the Mack” and El DeBarge’s “I Like It.” The idea first caught attention during January’s NAMM Show, where Saunders performed the track for renowned saxophonist Gerald Albright. The nine-time GRAMMY® nominee immediately recognized the song’s crossover appeal and agreed to join the recording. Since its release, the single has steadily gained traction on both the Billboard and Mediabase charts.
The collaboration also features GRAMMY®-winning keyboardist Michael Mani, known for his work with Carlos Santana, Eric Clapton, and Tori Kelly. Mani co-produced the single alongside Saunders while contributing keyboards, synths, drum programming, guitar synths, key bass, and vocal production. Drummer John Mitchell added live percussion that gives the track its driving rhythm and dynamic feel.
Saunders explained that the project was inspired by his longtime admiration for “Return of the Mack,” particularly its unforgettable groove. Pairing it with “I Like It” came naturally because both songs share the same musical key. According to Saunders, audiences have responded enthusiastically whenever the mashup is performed live.
The single also carries personal significance for Saunders, who dedicated the release to the memory of his cousins, Kurt Kaywood and Oliver Rodgers. Both passed away within weeks of one another while he was completing the track. Saunders reflected on the important role they played in his life and how they constantly introduced him to new experiences and ideas.
Originally released in 1996, “Return of the Mack” became one of the era’s defining hits, climbing to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Likewise, “I Like It” marked a major breakthrough for El DeBarge in 1982, reaching No. 2 on Billboard’s R&B chart and becoming a staple of classic soul and R&B radio.
Beyond music, Saunders recently stepped into the film world once again with a cameo appearance in the upcoming Belton Mouras Entertainment production Fingers: The Vegan Zombie Musical, expected to premiere this Halloween season. Although Saunders has composed music for several films over the years, his on-screen debut dates back to 1986 when he appeared in Francis Ford Coppola’s Peggy Sue Got Married alongside Nicolas Cage.
Saunders’ musical roots run deep. He studied piano under jazz legend Herbie Hancock, received an organ from Sly Stone, and was gifted his first bass guitar by Tom Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival. His professional career began performing with his father, Merl Saunders, whose band frequently collaborated with Grateful Dead icon Jerry Garcia. Over the years, Saunders has built a reputation for seamlessly blending jazz, funk, rock, R&B, and Latin influences into his sound. He also co-created the musical Rock Justice with Jefferson Starship founder Marty Balin.
Launching his solo career with 2011’s Romancing the Bass, Saunders has continued to evolve as an artist. His 2024 project The Romance Continues generated several Billboard Top 10 hits and further established his presence in contemporary jazz. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with respected artists including Jeff Lorber, Paul Brown, Randy Crawford, Blake Aaron, and Adam Hawley.
Looking ahead, Saunders plans to release more music while touring with a newly assembled band featuring John Mitchell on drums, Vernon Hall on bass, guitarist Tim Landis, and keyboardist Ray Roland. Saunders says the chemistry within the group is undeniable and perfectly captures the musical energy he has always envisioned.
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