“Ordinary World” by Duran Duran is a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release. Fans are captivated not only by Simon Le Bon’s poignant vocals and the song’s emotional depth, but also by its intricate soundscape. One particular element that has intrigued listeners for years is a unique, almost sci-fi sound effect that briefly appears in the song. Recently, a curious fan reached out to Katy Krassner, Duran Duran’s official archivist, to unravel the mystery behind this sonic detail.
Roger, a long-time admirer of “Ordinary World”, posed a direct question about this intriguing sound effect. He pinpointed the exact moment in the official music video – around the 3:12 to 3:15 mark – where this three-second burst of futuristic sound emerges. Roger’s own theory stemmed from an audio editing card in a computer that produced a similar sound at startup, albeit at a different pitch. He wondered if this technological quirk might be connected to the song’s distinctive effect.
Katy Krassner responded thoughtfully, acknowledging the sonic textures that define “Ordinary World”. While unable to pinpoint the exact source of the effect without revisiting the original studio session, she shed light on the broader creative process employed during the mixing stage. She highlighted the significant role of mixer David Richards, whose meticulous approach and innovative techniques were instrumental in shaping the song’s sonic identity. According to Krassner, Richards frequently utilized tape delays to craft the “spacey” and ethereal sounds that permeate many Duran Duran tracks, including “Ordinary World”. He would manipulate sounds, spinning them around on the tape to create otherworldly effects.
The mixing process for “Ordinary World” was far from rushed. Krassner revealed that Richards dedicated an extensive period – nearly three weeks – to perfecting this single track. Working in his secluded studio in Switzerland, Richards had the freedom to experiment and refine every sonic layer. While the band members initially grew anxious about the extended mixing time, their apprehension quickly dissolved upon hearing the final product. They were, in Krassner’s words, “stunned by the detailed work” Richards had woven into the song. This meticulous approach underscores the dedication to sonic artistry that defined the creation of “Ordinary World”, transforming it from a simple ballad into an immersive and enduring musical experience. The subtle yet impactful sound effect, therefore, is not merely a random addition, but a testament to the band and David Richards’ commitment to sonic exploration and detail within the framework of a deeply emotional song.
