Saxophonist Eric Knight Releases Cover of Peter Gabriel Classic “Sledgehammer” | WATCH NEW VIDEO!
Eric Knight
“Sledgehammer”
UPDATE Sept. 8th, 2026: Watch New Official Music Video Below!
Reimagining one of pop music’s most iconic recordings is always a bold proposition. Releasing it on the 40th anniversary of its debut raises the stakes even higher. Originally topping the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986, Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” became an international phenomenon, propelled by its irresistible funk groove and a groundbreaking video that earned a record nine MTV Video Music Awards while helping redefine the visual language of the MTV era. Four decades later, Billboard-charting Smooth Jazz saxophonist Eric Knight embraces that challenge with confidence, delivering a vibrant Contemporary interpretation that honors the original’s spirit while establishing a fresh, vibrant and funky-fiery identity all its own.
Knight understood from the beginning that simply covering “Sledgehammer” would never be enough. Before recording, he immersed himself in Gabriel’s original, studying not only its infectious groove but also the song’s lyrical personality and swagger. Then he imagined how three of his greatest saxophone influences might approach it: the earthy funk of Maceo Parker,the soulful bite and expressive phrasing of David Sanborn, and the sleek melodic elegance of Candy Dulfer. Rather than imitate any one of them, Knight blended elements of each into a performance rooted in his own musical voice.
That vision found the perfect collaborators. Producer Roberto Vally laid the foundation before GRAMMY-winning producer Paul Brown expanded the arrangement with a dynamic live horn section, Ron King’s punchy horn charts and Greg Vail’s colorful flute textures. The result captures everything listeners love about the original while opening the door to an entirely Smooth Jazz experience.
Throughout the performance, Knight demonstrates the very philosophy that has guided his career from the beginning. Like Grover Washington Jr.—one of his greatest inspirations—he never allows technique to overshadow communication. Every phrase serves the song; every improvisation grows naturally from the groove – and each melodic turn invites listeners deeper into the experience rather than calling attention to itself.
Ever since Peter Gabriel first introduced “Sledgehammer” to the world, the song has remained a benchmark of inventive pop craftsmanship. Eric Knight proves that great songs never lose their power—they simply invite new voices to discover fresh possibilities within them. His debut Woodward Avenue Records release celebrates one of popular music’s most beloved classics while confidently announcing another exciting chapter in the remarkable emergence of one of Contemporary/Smooth Jazz’s most compelling artists.
Eric Knight – Saxophones
Roberto Vally – Bass
Brian Dunne – Drums
Shane Theriot –Guitars
Dave Kochanski – Keyboards
Greg Vail – Tenor Sax & Flute
Ron King – Trumpet
Produced by Roberto Vally
Additional Production & Mix by Paul Brown
Mastered by Brian Lee
Written by Peter Gabriel
Executive Producer – Mark Nordman
Gorov Music