35 – FUNK AND THE NEW R&B
As the century matured, black music gradually purged itself of white influences becoming noticeably much more African in style and by the 1970's, Southern soul as a major black music form was in decline, replaced by a more urgent, more rhythmic style labelled funk. Although the vocals still retained the emotional intensity of gospel and the blues, the previously formulaic accompaniment of southern soul had given way to complex dance rhythms.
Funk can be easily traced directly back to one remarkable artist - "The Godfather Of Soul" James Brown. He not only pioneered the style but helped popularize the term (e.g. "Make It Funky" - 1971). Actually, the word funk goes back several decades (Wilson Pickett's "Funky Broadway" in 1967 was one of its earliest appearances in a title) yet no one did more to bring it into the mainstream than Brown.
During the 1970's, most black factions were seeking out something a little more heady than southern soul or the smooth stylings of Motown or Gamble & Huff. However, the emergence of the likes of George Clinton, Earth Wind And Fire and Rick James and their gutsy chunky rhythm patterns gave R&B audiences something juicier to sink their teeth into. Even Motown artists such as Stevie Wonder crossed over from formulated commercial R&B into more adventurous territory. By the end of the 1970's, the groove was the most important aspect of the music and funk progressed and evolved to eventually encompass rap, house and hip hop.
- A pounding rhythm section, conjuring up visions of primitive exotic rites. The heaviness of the beat and the complexity of the rhythm were taken to the limit. Funk was the most black sounding music achieved to date with the use of modern technology.
- Sometimes Neo-Caribbean rhythms surfaced in the mix.
- Riffs and themes were repetitive.
- Vocals were stretched to the extreme, wringing the most out of every emotion.
- Performance always involved choreography of some kind.
JAMES BROWN
THE STAPLE SINGERS
- 1964 - Soul/funk outfit formed in Los Angeles, California.
- Consisting of Gordy Harmon, Marcus Hutson, Nicholas Caldwell and twin brothers Walter and Wallace "Scotty" Scott.
- 1964 - First recorded on Dore Records.
- 1973 - Harmon replaced by Leaveil Degree.
- Hits include "Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong"(Aug., 1970)#6 R&B, (Sept., 1970)#50, "And The Beat Goes On"(Jan., 1980)#1-5 wks. R&B, (Feb., 1980)#19, "Lady"(March, 1980)#3 R&B, (April, 1980)#28 and "Rock Steady"(April, 1987)#1 R&B, (June, 1987)#7.
- 1968 - Soul/funk vocal group formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Consisting of lead singer Russell Thompkins Jr. (March 21, 1951 – ), bass James Smith (June 16, 1950 – ), tenor Airron Love Aug. 8, 1949 – ) and baritones James Dunn (Feb. 4, 1950 – ) and Herbie Murrell (April 27, 1949 – ).
- Thompkins, Smith and Love had been members of the vocal group The Percussions.
- 1965-1968 - Murrell and Dunn were members of The Monarchs.
- Toured Pennsylvania with a backup band called Slim & The Boys.
- 1969 - First recorded for Sebring Records, releasing their debut single, "You're A Big Girl Now."
- 1971 - Signed to Avco.
- 1980 - After the hits ended, they continued touring reduced to a trio, working in nightclubs.
- Hits include "You Are Everything"(Oct., 1971)#10 R&B, (Nov., 1971)#9, "Betcha By Golly, Wow"(Feb., 1972)#3, (March, 1972)#2 R&B, "I'm Stone In Love With You"(Oct., 1972)#4 R&B, #10, "Break Up To Make Up"(Feb., 1973)#5 R&B, #5, "Rockin' Roll Baby"(Oct., 1973)#3 R&B, #14, "You Make Me Feel Brand New"(March, 1974)#5 R&B, #2 and "Thank You Baby"(April, 1975)#7 R&B, #70.
- (July 15, 1944 – )
- Singer/songwriter born in Thompson, Georgia.
- 1958 - Moved to Newark, New Jersey.
- 1960 - Moved to Brooklyn, New York.
- Ran away from home of her preacher grandfather.
- As a teenager, worked as a model in New York City.
- 1964 - Debuted as a singer at Club Zanzibar in Hoboken, New Jersey.
- 1970 - Began her recording career, first with MGM, later Spring.
- Became famous for her suggestive material and live act.
- Hits include "Ask Me What You Want"(March, 1972)#4 R&B, #27, "Hurt So Good"(Aug., 1973)#3 R&B, (Sept., 1973)#24, "If You're Not Back In Love By Monday"(Sept., 1977)#5 R&B, (Nov., 1977)#43, "Act Of War (Part 1)"(July, 1985) (with Elton John) and "Hot, Wild, Unrestricted, Crazy Love" (Sept., 1986)#9 R&B.
- (June 3, 1942 - Dec. 26, 1999)
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist/producer born in Chicago, Illinois.
- Son of singer/songwriter Percy Mayfield (Aug. 12, 1920 - Aug. 11, 1984).
- Sang with Jerry Butler in The Northern Jubilee Singers gospel group.
- 1957-1970 - He was a member of the legendary soul group The Impressions, writing much of their material.
- Composed material for Gene Chandler, Major Lance and The Staple Singers.
- Dec., 1970 - Released his debut solo album, "Curtis."
- Scored several movies including "Superfly"(1972), "Claudine" (1974) and "A Piece Of The Action"(1977).
- Aug. 13, 1990 - After being crushed by a stage lighting tower previous to a concert he was left a quadriplegic.
- 1991 - The Impressions were inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.
- March, 1994 - Received The Grammy Legend Award.
- 1995 - Received The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
- 1998 - His right leg was amputated due to diabetes.
- March 15, 1999 - Inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "Freddie's Dead (Theme From "Superfly")" (Aug., 1972)#2 R&B, #4, "Superfly"(Nov., 1972)#5 R&B, #8 and "Future Shock"(July, 1973)#11 R&B, #39.
- 1958 - Formed in Canton, Ohio as The Triumphs.
- Consisting of Eddie Levert (June 16, 1942 – ), Walter Williams (Aug. 25, 1942 – ), Bobby Massey, William Powell (Jan. 20, 1942 - May 26, 1977) and Bill Isles.
- 1960 - Became The Mascots, recording for King Records.
- 1963 - Renamed The O'Jays by Cleveland disc jockey Eddie O'Jay.
- Sept., 1963 - Signed to Imperial Records, their debut chart outing was the #97 hit, "Lonely Drifter."
- Aug., 1966 - Isles left to pursue a songwriting career.
- During the 1970's, they developed a commercial funk sound which also crossed over into the disco market.
- April, 1972 - Reduced to a trio, they signed with Gamble & Huff's Philadelphia International.
- May 26, 1977 - Powell died of cancer. He was replaced by Sammy Strain who had been with Little Anthony & The Imperials for 12 years.
- 1986 - Levert's sons Gerald and Sean formed Levert.
- Hits include "Lipstick Traces (On A Cigarette)"(May, 1965)#28 R&B, #48, "Back Stabbers"(July, 1972)#1 R&B, #3, "Love Train" (Jan., 1973)#1 R&B, #1, "Put Your Hands Together"(Dec., 1973)#10 R&B, #10, "For The Love Of Money"(April, 1974)#3 R&B, #9, "I Love Music (Part 1)"(Nov., 1975)#1 R&B, #5 and "Use Ta Be My Girl" (April, 1978)#1-5 wks. R&B, #4.
- (1934 – )
- Saxophonist/pianist from Douala, Cameroon, Africa.
- 1949 - Moved to Europe.
- 1952 - First recorded in Belgium, playing strictly jazz until 1960.
- By 1960, his main passion was to electrify African rhythms.
- 1965 - Moved to Paris, recording several albums including "Manu Dibango"(1968), "O Boso"(1971) and "Soma Coba"(1972).
- June, 1973 - His instrumental hit, "Soul Makossa," recorded in Paris went to #21 R&B, #35 US.
- Other dance hits include "Big Blow" and "Sun Explosion."
- Nickolas Ashford (May 4, 1942 – )
- Singer/songwriter/producer born in Fairfield, South Carolina.
- Valerie Simpson (Aug. 26, 1946 – )
- Singer/songwriter/producer born in The Bronx, New York.
- Husband and wife team.
- Ashford had been a jazz dancer and Simpson was a gospel singer.
- Simpson's brother Ray sang with The Village People.
- 1963 - The two met at a Harlem church.
- 1963 - Recorded for Glover Records.
- 1965 - Became songwriters for Scepter Records.
- 1966 - Wrote Ray Charles hit "Let's Go Get Stoned."
- 1966 - Joined Motown as staff writers. Hits included "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing"(1968) (Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell), "Reach Out And Touch (Somebody's Hand)"(1970) (Diana Ross) and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough"(1970) (Diana Ross).
- 1971 - Released their debut Motown album, "Exposed" to critical acclaim but lacking in sales.
- Dec., 1972 - Simpson had a #24 R&B, #63 solo hit with "Silly Wasn't I."
- 1972 - Signed with Warners.
- 1982 - Signed with Capitol.
- 1996 - Released the "Been Found" album with Maya Angelou.
- Hits together include "(I'd Know You) Anywhere"(Nov., 1973)#37 R&B, (Jan., 1974)#88, "Don't Cost You Nothing"(Jan., 1978)#10, "Found A Cure"(July, 1979)#2 R&B, (Aug., 1979)#36 and "Solid" (Sept., 1984)#1-3 wks., (Nov., 1984)#12.
- George Clinton (July 22, 1940 – )
- Singer/songwriter/producer from Plainfield, Ohio.
- Formed The Parliaments vocal quintet.
- July, 1967 - Their recording of "I Wanna Testify" went to #3 R&B, #20.
- 1967 - A legal battle over the group's name caused several changes. A backup band was recruited and they began recording as Funkadelic.
- 1971 - Began recording as Parliament and as a part of Clinton's new "A Parliafunkadelicament Thang" corporation. The troupe consisted of up to 40 musicians and performers, each recording under various configurations such as P. Funk All Stars, Funkadelic and Parlet.
- Parliament hits include "Up For The Down Stroke"(July, 1974)#10 R&B, (Aug., 1974)#63, "Tear The Roof Off The Sucker (Give Up The Funk)"(April, 1976)#5 R&B, (May, 1976)#15 and "Flashlight"(Jan., 1978)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Feb., 1978)#16.
- Funkadelic hits include "One Nation Under A Groove (Part 1)" (Aug., 1978)#1-6 wks. R&B, (Sept., 1978)#28 and "(Not Just) Knee Deep - Part 1"(Aug., 1979)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Oct., 1979)#77.
- Other offshoots include Bootsy's Rubber Band in 1976 and Clinton's female vocal group, The Brides Of Funkenstein in 1978.
- Clinton adopted a colourful stage persona, sporting elaborate glitter costumes and wildly dyed and styled hair. His sound was basically post psychedelic soul.
- 1981 - Dissolved his operations and filed for bankruptcy, losing all rights to his group names.
- 1982 - Clinton began recording solo, charting several hits on the R&B charts including "Atomic Dog"(Jan., 1983)#1-4 wks. R&B.
- (March 4, 1944 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Cleveland, Ohio.
- 1959 - Started out with his brothers Curtis, Cecil, Friendly Jr. and Harris in The Womack Brothers Gospel Quartet.
- 1961 - Began recording on Sam Cooke's SAR label as The Valentinos. Hits include "Lookin' For A Love"(July, 1962)#8 R&B, (Aug., 1962)#72, "I'll Make It Alright"(March, 1963)#97 and "It's All Over Now"(June, 1964)#94 R&B, (June, 1964)#94.
- 1965 - After Sam Cooke's death, married his widow.
- 1965 - Began recording solo.
- Worked as a session guitarist for many major artists including Sam Cooke, The Box Tops and Janis Joplin.
- Nicknamed "The Preacher."
- Dec., 1981 - Released "The Poet" album.
- Hits include "Fly Me To The Moon"(Aug., 1968)#16 R&B, #52, "That's The Way I Feel About Cha"(Dec., 1971)#2 R&B, #27, "Harry Hippie"(Dec., 1972)#8 R&B, #31, "Nobody Wants You When You're Down And Out"(June, 1973)#2 R&B, #29, "Lookin' For A Love"(Jan., 1974)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Feb.,1974)#10, "Check It Out"(March, 1975)#6 R&B, (April, 1975)#91 and "If You Think You're Lonely Now"(Nov., 1981)#3 R&B.
COMMODORES
- 1970 - Vocal trio formed in Oakland, California.
- Consisting of sisters Ruth (March 19, 1946 – ), Anita (Jan. 23, 1948 – ) and Bonnie Pointer (July 11, 1951 –). Bonnie and June had actually started as a duo in 1969 called Pointers - A Pair.
- 1972 - Joined by youngest sister June (Nov. 30, 1954 – ).
- Their parents were both ministers.
- Began as session vocalists for Tower Of Power, Bozz Scaggs, Grace Slick and Elvin Bishop.
- 1972 - Released the single, "Don't Try To Take The Fifth" on Atlantic, later signing with Blue Thumb until 1975.
- 1973-1977 - Their material consisted mostly of 1940's jazz, later crossing over into the funk and dance markets.
- 1975 - June suffered a nervous breakdown and left the group for 3 years.
- 1978 - Bonnie went solo on Motown, enjoying a brief career as a disco artist. Hits include "Free Me From My Freedom/Tie Me To A Tree (Handcuff Me)"(Nov., 1978)#10 R&B, #58 and "Heaven Must Have Sent You"(May, 1979)#52 R&B, (June, 1979)#11.
- The group continued as a trio, piling up a phenomenal number of hits in the R&B, pop and C&W charts with Richard Perry as their producer.
- Their professional lives were plagued by drug abuse.
- 1995 - Starred in the stage show, "Ain't Misbehavin'."
- July, 2000 - June Pointer was released from rehab.
- Hits include "Yes We Can Can"(Aug., 1973)#12 R&B, #11, "Fairytale"(July, 1974)#37 C&W, (Oct., 1974)#13, "How Long (Betcha Gotta Chick On The Side)"(July, 1975)#1-2 wks. R&B, #20, "Fire"(Nov., 1978)#2, (Jan., 1979)#14 R&B, "He's So Shy"(July, 1980)#3, (Aug., 1980)#10 R&B, "Slow Hand"(May, 1981)#2, (June, 1981)#7 R&B, "I'm So Excited"(Sept., 1982)#30, (Oct., 1982)#46 R&B, "Automatic"(Jan., 1984)#2 R&B, #5, "Jump (For My Love)" (April, 1984)#3 R&B, #3, "Neutron Dance"(Nov., 1984)#6, (Dec., 1984)#13 R&B, "Dare Me"(July, 1985)#6 R&B, #11 and "Chain Of Fools"(1994) (with Clint Black).
- 1964 - R&B unit formed in Jersey City, New Jersey by lead singer/bassist Robert "Kool" Bell (Oct. 8, 1950 – ), the godson of Thelonius Monk.
- Originally called The Jazziacs, later Soul Town Revue and The New Dimensions.
- Consisting of Robert Bell, tenor saxophonist Ronald Bell (Nov. 1, 1951 – ), lead guitarist Claude "Clay" Smith, trumpeter Robert "Spike" Mickens, keyboardist Rickey "West" Westfield, drummer George "Funky" Brown (Jan. 5, 1949 – ) and alto and tenor saxophonist/flautist Dennis "Dee" Thomas (Feb. 19, 1951 – ).
- 1964-1968 - Session work.
- 1968 - Played in a show called The Soul Town Review.
- 1969 - Began recording for De-Lite.
- 1979 - Lead vocalist James "J.T." Taylor (Aug. 16, 1953 – ) joined.
- 1988 - Ronald Bell converted to Islam and became Khalis Bayyan.
- 1988 - Taylor left, replaced by singers Gary Brown, Skip Martin and Odeen Mays.
- Hits include "Jungle Boogie"(Dec., 1973)#2 R&B, #4, "Hollywood Swinging"(April, 1974)#1 R&B, #6, "Ladies Night"(Sept., 1979)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Oct., 1979)#8, "Too Hot"(Jan., 1980)#3 R&B, #5, "Celebration"(Oct., 1980)#1-6 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "Get Down On It"(Feb., 1982)#10, (March, 1982)#4 R&B, "Joanna"(Nov., 1983)#1-2 wks. R&B, #2, "Misled"(Nov.,1984)#3 R&B, #10, "Fresh"(March, 1985)#1 R&B, #9, "Cherish"(July, 1985)#1 R&B, #2, "Victory"(Nov., 1986)#2 R&B, #10 and "Stone Love"(Jan., 1987)#4 R&B, (Feb., 1987) #10.
LaBELLE
- Chaka Khan (Yvette Marie Stevens) (March 23, 1953 – )
- Singer from Great Lakes, Illinois.
- Sister of singers Taka Boom and Mark Stevens (Jamaica Boys).
- 1972 - Khan joined the white Chicago based group Rufus. The band had originally been named Smoke, then Ask Rufus.
- June, 1974 - Their recording of Stevie Wonder's "Tell Me Something Good" went to #3 R&B, #3.
- Khan was noted for her exotic appearance and shock of wild unruly hair.
- 1978 - Khan began recording solo while remaining with Rufus.
- 1980 - Khan appeared in the film, "The Blues Brothers."
- July, 1998 - Khan debuted her own record label, Earthsong Entertainment.
- Hits include "You Got The Love"(Oct., 1974)#1 R&B, #11, "Once You Get Started"(Feb., 1975)#4 R&B, #10, "Sweet Thing"(Dec., 1975) #1-2 wks. R&B, (Jan., 1976)#5, "Do You Love What You Feel"(Oct., 1979)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Nov., 1979)#30 and "Ain't Nobody" (July, 1983)#1 R&B, (Oct., 1983)#22.
- Chaka Khan solo hits include "I'm Every Woman"(Oct., 1978)#1-3 wks. R&B, #21, "I Feel For You"(Sept., 1984)#1-3 wks. R&B, #3 and "I'll Be Good To You"(Nov., 1989)#18 (with Quincy Jones).
- Late 1960's - Soul/R&B septet formed in Long Beach, California.
- Originally known as Senior Soul, later The Romeos, The Creators and finally Nightshift.
- 1969 - Signed by manager/producer Jerry Goldstein as the backup band for white singer Eric Burdon.
- 1971 - Separated from Burdon, developing a distinctive style featuring funky repetitive riffs and party atmosphere vocals.
- Consisting of Leroy "Lonnie" Jordan (Nov. 21, 1948 – ) (keys), Howard Scott (March 15, 1946 – ) (guitar), Charles Miller (June 2, 1939 - 1980) (sax), Morris "B.B." Dickerson (Aug. 3, 1949 – ) (bass) and Harold Brown (March 17, 1946 – ) and Thomas "Papa Dee" Allen (July 19, 1931 - Aug. 30, 1988) (percussion).
- One-time lineup featured white harmonica player Lee Oskar (Oskar Levetin Hansen) (March 24, 1948 – ).
- The group combined Latin influences with funk.
- Several personnel changes.
- 1978 - After the disco oriented "Galaxy" album, the group went into decline.
- Hits include "Spill The Wine"(May, 1970)#3 (with Eric Burdon), "Slippin' Into Darkness"(Jan., 1972)#12 R&B, #16, "The World Is A Ghetto"(Nov., 1972)#7, (Dec., 1972)#3 R&B, "The Cisco Kid" (March, 1973)#5 R&B, #2, "Gypsy Man"(July, 1973)#6 R&B, #8, "Why Can't We Be Friends"(May, 1975)#9 R&B, #6, "Low Rider"(Sept., 1975)#1 R&B, #7, "Summer"(July, 1976)#4 R&B, #7 and "L. A. Sunshine"(June, 1977)#2 R&B, (July, 1977)#45.
- 1959 - R&B/jazz ensemble formed in Dayton, Ohio.
- Originally an instrumental act known as The Ohio Untouchables.
- Played backup on records by The Falcons.
- 1962 - Began recording, however success did not come until the 1970's.
- Definitive lineup consisted of bassist Marshall Jones, Clarence "Satch" Satchell, drummer Jimmy "Diamond" Williams, trumpeter Marvin "Merv" Pierce, keyboardist/songwriter Billy Peck, Leroy "Sugarfoot" Bonner and Ralph "Pee Wee" Middlebrook.
- Famous for their S&M oriented album jackets.
- 1969-1974 - Joined by keyboardist Walter Morrison.
- Hits include "Funky Worm"(Feb., 1973)#15, (March, 1973)#1 R&B, "Jive Turkey (Part 1)"(May, 1974)#6 R&B, (June, 1974)#47, "Skin Tight"(Aug., 1974)#2 R&B, (Sept., 1974)#13, "Fire"(Dec., 1974)#1- 2 wks. R&B, #1, "Love Rollercoaster"(Nov., 1975)#1 R&B, #1 and "Who'd She Coo"(June, 1976)#1 R&B, #18.
- 1972 - R&B instrumental/vocal sextet formed in Glasgow, Scotland.
- Consisting of Hamish Stuart (Oct. 8, 1949 – ) (vocals/ guitar), Robbie McIntosh (1950 - Sept. 23, 1974) (drums), Alan Gorrie (July 19, 1946 – ) (vocals/bass), Onnie McIntyre (Sept. 25, 1945 – ) (vocals/guitar), Malcolm "Molly" Duncan (Aug. 24, 1945 – ) (sax) and Roger Ball (June 4, 1944 – ) (keys/sax).
- 1973 - Moved to London and signed to MCA, later Atlantic.
- 1973 - Toured with Eric Clapton.
- Sept. 23, 1974 - McIntosh died after snorting heroin thinking it was cocaine at a party in Los Angeles, California. Replaced by Steve Ferrone (April 25, 1950 – ) from Brighton, Sussex, England.
- 1982 - Disbanded, reuniting in 1989 and 1994.
- Hits include "Pick Up The Pieces"(Nov., 1974)#5 R&B, (Dec., 1974) #1, "Cut The Cake"(April, 1975)#7 R&B, #10 and "School Boy Crush" (Nov., 1975)#22 R&B, #33.
- Maurice White (Dec. 19, 1941 – )
- Singer/songwriter/kalimba player/drummer/producer born in Memphis, Tennessee.
- 1966-1970 - Session drummer and member of The Ramsey Lewis Trio.
- 1978 - Formed the 8 piece group Earth, Wind & Fire in Los Angeles, California.
- Named after White's astrological sign elements.
- Consisting of Maurice White, bassist Verdine White (July 25, 1951 – ), keyboardist Larry Dunn (June 19, 1953 – ), guitarist Johnny Graham (Aug. 3, 1951 – ), guitarist Al McKay (Feb. 2, 1948 – ), saxophonist Andrew Woolfolk (Oct. 11, 1950 – ), drummer Ralph Johnson (July 4, 1951 – ) and second drummer Freddie White (Jan. 13, 1955 – ).
- 1971 - Philip Bailey (May 8, 1951 – ) joined as co-lead singer.
- Their elaborate stage show often featured magic, pyrotechnics and various special effects.
- 1978 - Appeared in the film, "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."
- Both Philip Bailey and Maurice White later enjoyed successful solo careers.
- 1992 - White was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.
- March 6, 2000 - Earth, Wind & Fire were inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "Shining Star"(Feb., 1975)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1, "Sing A Song"(Nov., 1975)#1-2 wks. R&B, #5, "Serpentine Fire"(Oct., 1977)#1-7 wks. R&B, #13, "Got To Get You Into My Life"(July, 1978)#1 R&B, #9, "September"(Nov., 1978)#1 R&B, #8, "Boogie Wonderland"(May, 1979)#2 R&B, #6, "After The Love Has Gone"(July, 1979)#2 R&B, #2, "Let's Groove"(Oct., 1981)#1-8 wks. R&B, #3 and "System Of Survival"(Oct., 1987)#1 R&B, #60.
- Maurice White solo hits include "Stand By Me"(Aug., 1985)#6 R&B, #50.
- Philip Bailey's solo hits include "Easy Lover"(Nov., 1984)#2, (Dec., 1984)#3 R&B (with Phil Collins).
- Errol Brown (Nov. 12, 1948 – )
- Singer/songwriter born in Kingston, Jamaica.
- 1970 - Formed the interracial group Hot Chocolate in London, England.
- Consisting of Brown (vocals), Harvey Hinsley (Jan. 19, 1948 – ) (guitar), Larry Ferguson (April 14, 1948 – ) (keys), Tony Wilson (Oct. 8, 1947 – ) (bass), Patrick Olive (March 22, 1947 – ) (congas) and Tony Connor (April 6, 1947 – ) (drums).
- Encouraged by John Lennon who allowed them to record his "Give Peace A Chance" as their debut recording.
- April, 1973 - Their first British hit, "Brother Louie," written by Brown & Wilson went to #7 UK. The song, covered in the U.S. by Stories went to #1-2 wks. in June, 1973.
- 1975 - Wilson left and Olive switched to bass.
- 1987 - Brown went solo.
- Hits include "Emma"(Feb., 1975)#8, "Disco Queen"(May, 1975)#40 R&B, #28, "You Sexy Thing"(Nov., 1975)#6 R&B, #3, "So You Win Again"(1977)#1 UK and "Every 1's A Winner"(Nov., 1978)#7 R&B, #6.
- 1974 - Soul/funk group formed in New York City, originally called The New York City Players.
- 1976 - Became Cameo.
- 1982 - The group was reduced from 12 to 5 members.
- 1985 - The group was reduced to a trio consisting of singer/ drummer Larry "Mr. B." Blackmon (May 29, 1956 – ), Nathan Leftenant and Tomi "Tee" Jenkins.
- Blackmon formed the Atlanta Artists label, later producing artists such as Bonnie Pointer, Bobby Brown and The Reddings.
- Hits include "I Just Want To Be"(June, 1979)#3 R&B, "She's Strange"(Feb., 1984)#1-4 wks. R&B, (April, 1984)#47, "Word Up" (Aug., 1986)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Sept., 1986)#6 and "Candy"(Dec., 1986)#1-2 wks. R&B, #21.
- 1968 - R&B/funk group formed in Vallejo, California.
- Originally called Project Soul.
- Put together by schoolmates Louis McCall (drums) and Mike Cooper (vocals/guitar).
- 1972 - Moved to Memphis, Tennessee becoming Con Funk Shun.
- Hits include "Ffun"(Oct., 1977)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Dec., 1977)#23, "Too Tight"(Nov., 1980)#8 R&B, (Jan., 1981)#40 and "Baby, I'm Hooked (Right Into Your Love)"(Oct., 1983)#5 R&B, (Jan., 1984) #76.
- Ray Parker Jr. (May 1, 1954 – )
- Singer/guitarist born in Detroit, Michigan.
- California session guitarist.
- 1977 - Formed the R&B sextet Raydio.
- 1982 - Parker went solo.
- Hits with Raydio include "Jack And Jill"(Nov., 1977)#5 R&B, (Jan., 1978)#8, "You Can't Change That"((March, 1979)#3 R&B, (April, 1979)#9 and "A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do)" (March, 1981)#1-2 wks. R&B, #4.
- Solo hits include "The Other Woman"(March, 1982)#2 R&B, #4 and "Ghostbusters"(June, 1984)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1-3 wks.
L.T.D.
- Funk outfit formed in Cleveland, Ohio.
- Put together by singer/saxophonist Bobby Harris.
- Consisting of Harris, Pierre McMudd, Sennie "Skip" Martin III, Kevin Frederick, Eric Fearman, Kenny Pettus, Michael Wiley and Isaac Wiley.
- Originally called Kinsman Dazz.
- "Dazz" is slang for danceable jazz.
- Hits include "Let It Whip"(March, 1982)#1-5 wks. R&B, (April, 1982)#5, "On The One For Fun"(Jan., 1983)#9 R&B and "Joystick" (Nov., 1983)#9 R&B, (Feb., 1984)#61.
NEW EDITION
- Atlantic Starr - "Always"(March, 1987)#1-3 wks. R&B, #1.
- Brick - "Dazz"(Oct., 1976)#1-4 wks. R&B, #3.
- The Brothers Johnson - "I'll Be Good To You"(April, 1976)#1 R&B, (May, 1976)#3.
- Fatback - "Backstrokin'"(June, 1980)#3 R&B.
- The Gap Band - "Burn Rubber (Why You Wanna Hurt Me)"(Dec., 1980)#1 2 wks. R&B, (Feb., 1981)#84.
- Instant Funk - "I Got My Mind Made Up(You Can Get It Girl)"(Jan., 1979)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Feb., 1979)#20.
- Klymaxx - "Meeting In The Ladies Room"(March, 1985)#4 R&B, (May, 1985)#59.
- Lakeside - "Fantastic Voyage"(Nov., 1980)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Jan., 1981)#55.
- McFadden & Whitehead - "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now"(April, 1979)#1 R&B, #13.
- Midnight Starr - "Operator"(Nov., 1984)#1-5 wks. R&B, (Dec., 1984) #18.
- Mtume - "Juicy Fruit"(April, 1983)#1-8 wks. R&B, (June, 1983)#45.
- One Way - "Cutie Pie"(May, 1982)#4 R&B, #61.
- Skyy - "Call Me"(Nov., 1981)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Jan., 1982)#26.
- The S.O.S. Band - "Take Your Time (Do It Right)"(April, 1980)#1-5 wks. R&B, (May, 1980)#3.
- Sun - "Wanna Make Love (Come Flick My Bic)"(April, 1976)#31 R&B, Sept., 1976)#76.
- Zapp - "More Bounce To The Ounce"(Aug., 1980)#2 R&B, (Oct., 1980) #86.
- James Ambrose Johnson Jr. (Feb. 1, 1948 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist/producer born in Buffalo, New York.
- Nephew of Temptations' singer Melvin Franklin.
- 1963 - Joined the Naval Reserves, later fleeing to Canada after going AWOL.
- In Toronto, Ontario, formed The Mynah Birds with Neil Young, recording for Motown. The album was never released.
- Mid 1970's - Formed The Stone City Band in the U.S.
- 1978 - Signed to Motown with a new sound he labelled punk/funk.
- Famous for his beaded hair and glitter wardrobe.
- He produced several artists including Teena Marie, Eddie Murphy and The Mary Jane Girls.
- June, 1981 - Released his tour-de-force album, "Street Songs."
- 1990 - MC Hammer plundered the main riff of James' "Superfreak" for his hit, "U Can't Touch This."
- James' drug problems later caused his career to hit the skids.
- 1992-Aug. 22, 1996 - Incarcerated in California's Folsom Prison for assaulting a woman in a West Hollywood Hotel.
- 1997 - Released the album, "Urban Rhapsody."
- Early, 1998 - Underwent a hip replacement operation due to his excessive movements onstage.
- Nov. 6, 1998 - Survived a stroke in Denver, Colorado.
- Hits include "You And I"(May, 1978)#1-2 wks. R&B, (July, 1978) #13, "Mary Jane"(Sept., 1978)#3 R&B, (Nov., 1978)#41, "Give It To Me Baby"(March, 1981)#1-5 wks. R&B, (May, 1981)#40, "Super Freak (Part 1)"(Aug., 1981)#3 R&B, #16, "Cold Blooded"(July, 1983)#1-6 wks. R&B, #40 and "17"(July, 1984)#6 R&B, #36.
- (Sept. 9, 1946 – )
- Singer/keyboardist/actor born in Houston, Texas.
- Son of Ernesta Wade who played Sapphire in both the radio and TV versions of "Amos 'N Andy."
- Moved to Los Angeles as a child.
- 1956 - Worked with gospel singer Mahalia Jackson.
- 1958 - Played W.C. Handy as a child in the film, "St. Louis Blues."
- 1964 - Recorded an album for Sam Cooke's label, SAR.
- During the early 1960's, became a regular on the TV series, "Shindig."
- 1967 - Joined Ray Charles' orchestra.
- Played on several Sly & The Family Stone sessions.
- Recorded with The Beatles on "Get Back" and "Let It Be" on the Apple label, causing him to occasionally be nicknamed "The Fifth Beatle."
- Aug., 1971 - Appeared at The Concert For Bangladesh.
- 1975 - Toured the U.S. with The Rolling Stones.
- May, 2001 - Diagnosed with chronic end-stage kidney disease while touring with Eric Clapton's band.
- Hits include "Outa-Space"(April, 1972)#2, (May, 1972)#1 R&B, "Will It Go Round In Circles"(March, 1973)#10 R&B, #1-2 wks., "Space Race"(Sept., 1973)#1 R&B, #4, "Nothing From Nothing"(July, 1974)#8 R&B, #1 and "With You I'm Born Again"(Dec., 1979)#4, (Jan., 1980)#86 R&B (with Syreeta).
- Theodore Pendergrass (March 26, 1950 – )
- Singer/drummer born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Nicknamed "Teddy Bear."
- 1969 - Began as the drummer with Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes.
- 1970 - Became lead singer for Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes.
- 1976 - Went solo, touring with his Teddy Bear Orchestra and playing to a predominantly female audience.
- March 18, 1982 - An auto accident left him paralyzed from the neck down and confined to a wheel chair. He later recovered partial movement.
- July 13, 1985 - Appeared at Live Aid.
- Albums include "Teddy Pendergrass"(1977), "Life Is A Song Worth Singing"(1978), "This One's For You"(1982), "Heaven Only Knows" (1984), "Joy"(1988) and "Truly Blessed"(1991).
- Hits include "Close The Door"(May, 1978)#1-2 wks. R&B, (July, 1978)#25, "Love T.K.O."(Oct., 1980)#2 R&B, (Nov., 1980)#44 and "Joy"(April, 1988)#1-2 wks. R&B, (June, 1988)#77.
- (April 20, 1951 – )
- Singer/songwriter/arranger/producer from New York City.
- Began his career as a commercial jingle singer.
- Discovered by David Bowie, he later emerged as a much sought after session vocalist.
- 1972 - His song, "Everybody Rejoice" was featured in the Broadway show, "The Wiz."
- 1975 - Worked as a singer/arranger on the David Bowie album, "Young Americans."
- 1976 - Recorded with his own group Luther.
- 1978 - He was a member of the studio group Roundtree.
- 1981 - Began his solo career as Luther Vandross.
- July, 2000 - After years of weight problems, he had shed 124 pounds.
- April 18, 2003 - Suffered a stroke.
- Hits include "Never Too Much"(Aug., 1981)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Oct., 1981)#33, "How Many Times Can We Say Goodbye"(Oct., 1983)#7 R&B, #27 (with Dionne Warwick), "Stop To Love"(Nov., 1986)#1-2 wks. R&B, #15, "Here And Now"(Dec., 1989)#6, "Power Of Love/Love Power"(March, 1991), "Endless Love"(1994) (with Mariah Carey) and "Your Secret Love"(Oct., 1996).
- (Feb. 16, 1956 – )
- Singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist from Akron, Ohio.
- Late 1970's - Moved to Los Angeles with his group Revelation Funk.
- 1980's - Went solo.
- Hits include "One Hundred Ways"(Dec., 1981)#14, #10 R&B (with Quincy Jones), "Baby Come To Me"(March, 1982)#9 R&B, (April, 1982)#1-2 wks. (with Patti Austin), "Ya Mo B There"(Dec., 1983)#5 R&B, #19 (with Michael McDonald), "Somewhere Out There"(Dec., 1986)#2 (with Linda Ronstadt) and "I Don't Have The Heart"(Aug., 1990)#1.
- (March 9, 1948 – )
- Singer/songwriter/drummer born in Providence, Rhode Island.
- The youngest of 12 children in a musical family.
- His father was trumpeter Clarence "Legs" Osborne who played with numerous big bands.
- 1969 - Recruited as drummer for L.T.D.
- 1970-1980 - Lead singer of L.T.D.
- 1974 - L.T.D. signed with A&M. Hits include "Love Ballad"(Oct., 1976)#20, "(Every Time I Turn Around) Back In Love Again"(Sept., 1977)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Oct., 1977)#4 and "Holding On (When Love Is Gone)"(Aug., 1978)#49.
- Solo hits include "I Really Don't Need No Light"(May, 1982)#3 R&B, (June, 1982)#39, "On The Wings Of Love"(Sept., 1982)#13 R&B, #29, "You Should Be Mine (The Woo Woo Song)"(May, 1986)#2 R&B, #13 and "Love Power"(July, 1987)#5 R&B, #12 (with Dionne Warwick).
- Robert Peabo Bryson (April 13, 1951 – )
- Singer/producer born in Greenville, South Carolina.
- 1965 - With Al Freeman & The Upsetters.
- 1968-1973 - Worked with Moses Dillard & The Tex-Town Display.
- 1970 - Began recording solo for Bang Records.
- Hits include "Tonight I Celebrate My Love"(July, 1983)#5 R&B, #16 (with Roberta Flack), "If Ever You're In My Arms Again"(May, 1984)#6 R&B, #10, "Slow Dancin'"(Aug., 1984)#6 R&B, (Sept., 1984) #82, "Beauty And The Beast"(1992) (with Celine Dion) and "A Whole New World"(1993) (with Regina Belle).
- Leslie Sebastian Charles (Jan. 21, 1950 – )
- Singer/songwriter born in Trinidad.
- Raised in London's East End where he worked as a tailor.
- Sang with the groups Shades Of Midnight and Dry Ice, later joining bandleader Ken Mackintosh.
- Recorded as Joshua and Les Charles.
- 1975 - Signed with GTO.
- Early British hits include "Love Really Hurts Without You"(1975), "Whose Little Girl Are You," "Stop Me (If You've Heard It All Before)" and "American Hearts."
- Late 1970's - Moved to America.
- Albums include "Suddenly"(1984), "Love Zone"(1986) and "Tear Down These Walls"(1988).
- Hits include "Caribbean Queen (No More Love On The Run)"(June, 1984)#1-4 wks. R&B, (Aug., 1984)#1-2 wks., "Loverboy"(Nov., 1984) #20 R&B, (Dec., 1984)#2, "Suddenly"(March, 1985)#5 R&B, #4, "When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going"(Nov., 1985)#2, (Dec., 1985)#6 R&B, "There'll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry)"(April, 1986)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1, "Love Zone"(July, 1986)#1 R&B, #10 and "Get Outta My Dreams And Into My Car"(Feb., 1988)#1 R&B, #1-2 wks.
TERENCE TRENT D'ARBY
BOBBY BROWN
JELLYBEAN
PATTI LaBELLE
- (Dec. 21, 1953 – )
- Singer born in Miami, Florida.
- Sang with her family in the gospel group Echoes Of Joy.
- 1966 - Age 13, began recording as a solo artist.
- Early tracks included "Girls Can't Do What The Guys Do"(1968) and "He's Bad Bad Bad"(1968).
- TV talk show host in Miami.
- Hits include "Clean Up Woman"(Nov., 1971)#2 R&B, #6, "Baby Sitter"(Sept., 1972)#6 R&B, (Oct., 1972)#46 and "Dance With Me" (Feb., 1978)#5 R&B, (March, 1978)#8 (with Peter Brown).
- (Feb. 6, 1950 – )
- Singer born in Los Angeles, California.
- Daughter of the legendary Nat King Cole.
- 1961 - Age 11, began performing professionally.
- During the 1970's, began recording strictly as a soul artist, later crossing all musical boundaries.
- 1975 - Won The Best New Artist Grammy Award.
- Married her producer, Marvin Yancey Jr.
- 1991 - Her "Unforgettable" album, a loving tribute to her father, became her biggest success to date, winning several Grammys and American Music Awards. The remarkable video for the title song featured a duet between Cole and her late father with the use of special effects.
- Oct., 1996 - Released her "Stardust" album featuring the "When I Fall In Love" single, another duet with her late father.
- Hits include "This Will Be"(July, 1975)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Aug., 1975)#6, "I've Got Love On My Mind"(Jan., 1977)#1-5 wks. R&B, #5, "Our Love"(Nov., 1977)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Jan., 1978)#10, "Jump Start"(June, 1987)#2 R&B, (July, 1987)#13, "I Live For Your Love" (Oct., 1987)#4 R&B, (Nov., 1987)#13, "Pink Cadillac"(Feb., 1988) #9 R&B, (March, 1988)#5, "Miss You Like Crazy"(April, 1989)#7, "Wild Women Do"(Feb., 1990)#34 and "Unforgettable"(1991).
- Melba Hill (Oct. 29, 1945 – )
- Singer/actress born in New York City.
- Starred in the Broadway cast of "Hair."
- Tony Award winner for her performance in the musical, "Purlie."
- A versatile, underestimated vocalist.
- Hits include "This Is It"(April, 1976)#18 R&B, #91, "You Stepped Into My Life"(Oct., 1978)#17 R&B, (Jan., 1979)#47, "Livin' For Your Love"(Jan., 1984)#6 R&B and "Falling"(Nov., 1986)#1 R&B.
- Deniece Chandler (June 3, 1951 – )
- Singer/songwriter born in Gary, Indiana.
- Early 1960's - Recorded for Toddlin' Town.
- 1972-1975 - She was a member of Stevie Wonder's backup group Wonderlove.
- Williams is also known for her gospel recordings.
- Hits include "Free"(Nov., 1976)#2 R&B, (Dec., 1976)#25, "Too Much, Too Little, Too Late"(March, 1978)#1-4 wks. R&B, (April, 1978)#1 (with Johnny Mathis), "It's Gonna Take A Miracle"(March, 1982)#1-2 wks. R&B, (April, 1982)#10, "Let's Here It For The Boy" (April, 1984)#1-3 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks. and "Never Say Never" (April, 1987)#6 R&B.
- Brenda Gordon
- Singer/songwriter/keyboardist born in Brooklyn, New York.
- Age 12, moved to Burlington, Ontario, Canada.
- Mid 1960's - Formed a rock/soul group called The Misfits.
- Appeared in the Canadian cast of "Hair" and co-hosted the Canadian TV series, "Music Machine."
- Became a member of the Canadian group Dr. Music.
- Married singer Brian Russell from Falkirk, Scotland. They formed the vocal duo Brian & Brenda, signing with Elton John's Rocket Records. Hits include "Gonna Do My Best To Love You"(April, 1977), "Toronto"(Nov., 1977) and "That's All Right Too"(Jan., 1978)#67 R&B.
- Often worked as a session vocalist for Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler and Elton John.
- 1979 - Went solo.
- Composed material for several artists including Anne Murray, Oleta Adams, Donna Summer and Chaka Khan.
- 1991 - Oleta Adams had a major hit with Russell's "Get Here."
- Hits include "So Good So Right"(Aug., 1979)#15 R&B, #30, "Way Back When"(Feb., 1980)#42 R&B, "Piano In The Dark"(Feb., 1988)#6, (March, 1988)#8 R&B, "Gravity"(June, 1988) and "Get Here"(Dec., 1988).
JANET JACKSON
- (March 22, 1957 – )
- Singer/actress born in Brooklyn, New York.
- 1960 - Age 3, she was a member of The Cornerstone Baptist Church.
- 1964 - Age 7, appeared in the Broadway musical, "Maggie Flynn."
- 1967 - Age 10, appeared with The Isley Brothers for 4 weeks at The Apollo Theater.
- 1968 - Age 11, appeared in the Broadway musical, "Maggie Flynn."
- 1972 - Age 15, starred for 4 years as Dorothy in the Broadway musical, "The Wiz."
- 1975 - Released her first solo album, "For The First Time" featuring an up-tempo version of Bacharach & David's "This Empty Place."
- 1980 - Married briefly to Jeffrey Daniels of Shalamar.
- Hits include "What Cha Gonna Do With My Lovin'"(April, 1979)#8 R&B, (July, 1979)#22, "Never Knew Love Like This Before"(Aug., 1980)#12 R&B, #6 and "I Feel Good All Over"(May, 1987)#1-3 wks. R&B.
- (Oct. 19, 1960 – )
- Singer/actress born in Riverside, Texas.
- 1982 - Won the Best Actress In A Musical Tony Award for her riveting performance in the Broadway show, "Dreamgirls."
- Other Broadway shows include "Your Arm's Too Short To Box With God"(1978) and "Sing, Mahalia Sing"(1985).
- A beefy attractive lady with powerful pipes.
- In the 1990's, Holliday slimmed down drastically from 330 to 122 pounds and adopted a new sexy image.
- Hits include "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going"(June, 1982)#1- 4 wks. R&B, (July, 1982)#22, "I Am Love"(Sept., 1983)#2 R&B, (Oct., 1983)#49 and "No Frills Love"(Dec., 1985)#29 R&B, (Feb., 1986)#87.
WHITNEY HOUSTON
SADE
JODY WATLEY
- Patti Austin - "Rhythm Of The Street"(April, 1984)#33 R&B.
- Dorothy Moore - "Misty Blue"(Feb.,1976)#2 R&B, (March, 1976)#3.
- Kellee Patterson - "If It Don't Fit Don't Force It"(Sept., 1977)#10 R&B, (Dec., 1977)#75.
- Minnie Riperton - "Lovin'" You"(Jan., 1975)#3 R&B, #1.
- Patrice Rushen - "Forget Me Nots"(March, 1982)#4 R&B, (May, 1982) #23.
- Prince Rogers Nelson (June 7, 1958 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist/actor/producer born in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
- Named for The Prince Rogers Trio led by his father.
- 1972 - Formed Champagne with Morris Day and Andre Cymone while in high school.
- 1978 - Released his first self produced album.
- Formed his own backup band The Revolution consisting of Wendy Melvoin (guitar), Lisa Coleman (keys), Bobby Z. (drums), Andre Cymone (bass), Matt "Dr." Fink (keys) and Eric Leeds (sax).
- Sept., 1979 - His recording of "I Wanna Be Your Lover" went to #1 R&B, (Nov., 1979)#11.
- Jan. 26, 1980 - Made his TV debut on American Bandstand.
- Film appearances include "Purple Rain"(1984), "Under The Cherry Moon" (1986), "Sign Of The Times"(1987) and "Graffiti Bridge" (1990).
- 1985 - Formed his own record label, Paisley Park.
- 1986 - Percussionist Sheila E. joined his band.
- Became the producer and manager of Sheila E., Wendy & Lisa, The Time, Vanity and Apollonia 6.
- Composed material for artists such as Cyndi Lauper, Tom Jones, Sheena Easton, The Bangles, Tevin Campbell and Mavis Staples.
- Incredibly creative musically and visually, his erotic stage shows feature elaborate sets, special effects, costuming and choreography.
- June 7, 1993 - On his 35th birthday, he chose to have his name represented by a symbol. He later chose to be called the artist formerly known as Prince.
- Opened the Grand Slam nightclub.
- 1994 - His Paisley Park Company folded.
- Feb. 14, 1996 - Married backup singer Mayte Garcia (1972 – ) who gave birth to their first child in Oct., 1996. The child died.
- 1996 - Presented his ballet, "Kama Sutra."
- 1996 - Terminated his $100 million contract with Warner Brothers.
- Nov., 1996 - Released his 3 hr. long CD, "Emancipation," featuring a version of The Stylistics' Philly soul classic, "Betcha By Golly Wow."
- 2000 - Released the "Rave Unto The Joy Fantastic" album.
- Hits include "1999"(Oct., 1982)#4 R&B, #12, "Little Red Corvette" (Feb., 1983)#6, (March, 1983)#15 R&B, "Delirious"(Sept., 1983)#18 R&B, #8, "When Doves Cry"(June, 1984)#1-8 wks. R&B, #1-5 wks., "Let's Go Crazy"(Aug., 1984)#1 R&B, #1-2 wks., "Purple Rain" (Oct., 1984)#4 R&B, #2, "I Would Die 4 U"(Dec., 1984)#11 R&B, #8, "Raspberry Beret"(May, 1985)#3 R&B, #2, "Pop Life"(July, 1985)#7, (Aug., 1985)#8 R&B, "Kiss"(Feb., 1986)#1-2 wks., (March, 1986)#1- 4 wks. R&B, "Sign 'O' The Times"(March, 1987)#1-3 wks. R&B, #3, "U Got The Look"(Aug., 1987)#11 R&B, #2 (with Sheena Easton), "I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man"(Nov., 1987)#10, "Alphabet St."(April, 1988)#3 R&B, #8, "Batdance"(June, 1989)#1, "Thieves In The Temple"(Aug., 1990)#6, "Cream"(Sept., 1991)#1, "My Name Is Prince"(Oct., 1992), "Diamonds And Pearls"(1992) and "7"(1993).
- 1981 - Group formed in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
- Discovered by Prince and featured singer Morris Day.
- Appeared with Prince in the films, "Purple Rain"(1984) and "Graffiti Bridge"(1990).
- 1984 - Disbanded.
- 1990 - Day appeared with Andrew Dice Clay in the film, "The Adventures Of Ford Fairlane."
- 1990 - Reformed.
- Hits include "777-9311"(Aug., 1982)#2 R&B, (Oct., 1982)#88, "Jungle Love"(Sept., 1984)#6 R&B, (Oct., 1984)#20, "The Bird" (Jan., 1995)#33 R&B, (Feb., 1985)#36 and "Jerk Out"(June, 1990) #9.
- Morris Day solo hits include "The Oak Tree"(Sept., 1985)#3 R&B, #65 and "Fishnet” Jan., 1988)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Feb., 1988)#23.
- Sheila Escovedo (Dec. 12, 1959 – )
- Singer/percussionist born in San Francisco, California.
- During the mid 1970's, worked with her father Pete Escovedo in Azteca.
- Toured with Lionel Richie.
- 1986 - Began touring and recording extensively with Prince.
- 1990 - Appeared briefly in the film, "The Adventures Of Ford Fairlane."
- 2001 - Released the "Rights Of Passage" album.
- Hits include "The Glamourous Life"(June, 1984)#9 R&B, #7, "The Belle Of St. Mark"(Oct., 1984)#34, (Nov., 1984)#68 R&B, "A Love Bizarre"(Oct., 1985)#2 R&B, (Nov., 1985)#11 and "Hold Me"(Jan., 1987)#3 R&B, (Feb., 1987)#68.
- Denise Matthews (Jan. 3, 1963 – )
- Singer/model/actress born in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. (aka: D. D. Winters)
- Lead singer of Vanity 6, formed by Prince.
- Film appearances include "The Last Dragon"(1985), "52 Pick-Up" (1986) and "Action Jackson"(1987).
- Her only charted hit with Vanity 6 was "Nasty Girl"(Sept., 1982) #7 R&B.
- March 26, 1995 - Married L.A. Raiders defensive end Anthony Smith.
- Became a born-again Christian evangelist.
- Hits include "Pretty Mess"(Sept., 1984)#15 R&B, #75 and "Under The Influence"(March, 1986)#9 R&B, (April, 1986)#56.
- Patty Apollonia Kotero (Aug. 2, 1961 – )
- Singer/actress.
- Leader of the trio Apollonia 6, formed by Prince. The other two consisted of ex-Vanity 6 members Brenda Bennett and Susan Moonsie.
- 1984 - Appeared in the films, "Mystic Warrior" and "Purple Rain."
- The only charted hit by Apollonia 6 was "Sex Shooter"(Sept., 1984)#14 R&B, (Oct., 1984)#85.
ALSO SEE
- Chapter 16: Rhythm And Blues
- Chapter 23: Soul
- Chapter 32: Disco
- Chapter 36: Rap
- Chapter 37: Eighties Revue
- Chapter 38: The Nineties And Beyond
BIBLIOGRAPHY
- Brown, James with Bruce Tucker. "James Brown - The Godfather Of Soul." (The Macmillan Company).
- Hoare, Ian, Clive Anderson, Tony Cummings & Simon Frith. "The Soul Book." (The Chaucer Press).
- Marsh, Dave. "The Heart Of Rock And Roll." (Penguin).
- Miller, Jim (Editor). "The Rolling Stone Illustrated History Of Rock & Roll." (Random House).
- Murrells, Joseph. "Million Selling Records." (Arco).
- Nathan, David. "Lionel Richie - An Illustrated Biography." (McGraw-Hill).
- Palmer, Tony. "All You Need Is Love." (The Macmillan Company).
- Whitburn, Joel. "The Billboard Book Of Top 40 Hits." (Billboard Publications Inc.).
- Whitburn, Joel. "Bubbling Under The Hot 100 - 1959 - 1985." (Record Research).
- Whitburn, Joel. "Top Pop Singles 1955 - 1990." (Record Research).
- Whitburn, Joel. "Top R&B Singles 1942 - 1988." (Record Research).