piano from “i'll make love to you” by boyz ii men | ToneDB
i'll make love to you
boyz ii men
piano
Tone Profile
The piano sound is clean, bright, and intimate, providing a warm harmonic foundation. It's a classic pop ballad piano tone, well-defined in the mid-range and sitting perfectly in the mix.
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The Story
The piano on "I'll Make Love To You" was recorded at Flyte Tyme Studios with production by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Based on the source information provided, a Yamaha CP-70 electric grand piano was used, recorded with a Neumann U87 condenser microphone positioned close to the soundboard. The result is the characteristic bright, intimate piano sound that became a signature of many Flyte Tyme Productions ballads from this era.
Production Credits
Producer: Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis
Engineer: Steve Hodge
Recorded at: Flyte Tyme Studios (Edina, MN)
Signal Chain
Instrument: Yamaha CP-70Shop on Reverb
Microphone: Neumann U87Shop on Reverb
Recreation Tips
- Start with a bright, well-maintained Yamaha CP-70 or a high-quality digital piano sample modeled after it.
- Use a Neumann U87 or similar condenser microphone positioned close to the soundboard.
- Apply gentle compression to even out the dynamics and add sustain.
- Use EQ to shape the tone, focusing on clarity in the midrange and a smooth high-end.
- Consider adding a touch of chorus or a subtle reverb to enhance the piano's presence without overwhelming the mix.
Original Gear
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- Yamaha CP-70Shop on Reverb(keyboard)
- Neumann U87Shop on Reverb(mic)
Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Yamaha CP-70 Electric Grand Piano
Contains authentic CP-70 samples and modeling that captures the characteristic bright, cutting tone of the original electric grand
Alternative to: Yamaha CP-70 Electric Grand Piano
Modern Yamaha stage piano with authentic CP-70 sounds built-in, maintaining the tonal DNA of the original
Alternative to: Neumann U87 Condenser Microphone
Large-diaphragm condenser with similar warmth and presence characteristics for recording acoustic piano sources
Alternative to: Neumann U87 Condenser Microphone
Current production version of the exact microphone used on the original recording
Alternative to: Yamaha CP-70 Electric Grand Piano
Detailed virtual instrument modeling of the CP-70 with extensive tone-shaping capabilities for that bright 90s ballad sound
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