Chic's new single was inspired by the death of co-founding member Bernard Edwards.
Nile Rodgers
Iconic guitarist Nile Rodgers has revealed the band's brand new single 'I'll Be There' - which is their first new track in 23 years - came from the comments he said to the singer-songwriter's dead body in April 1996.
Speaking on stage at the Roundhouse in London during the first night of the group's 'I'll Be There Tour' on Friday (20.03.15), he said: "When I did my last show with my former partner Bernard Edwards it was the last night of his life basically and then he didn't wake up for the call the next morning.
"I could tell he was dead straight away and the rigor mortis had set in.
"I said, 'Now I'll be there for you in death in the way you were for me in life.'"
The track - which was premiered alongside the official video featuring Victoria's Secret model Karlie Kloss - also came about through the 62-year-old star's beating of cancer, which made him realise he needed to live life to the full.
Speaking at the concert, he explained: "Today is a very special day. Today we released the very first Chic single in twenty something years.
"About four years ago I was stricken with very aggressive cancer.
"My doctor told me I had to make very special decisions.
"I said the most important decision I can make is to make as much music as possible in the time that I have left."
Chic + Nile Rodgers - whose new single is available to download now - will continue their UK tour during the rest of March.
Tagged in Nile Rodgers