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From 1964 the band performed at jazz events most notably those which took place in a small theater every Sunday, this was the start of the career for 13 year old Robert Bell, his brother and five of their friends.
Originally the ensemble were called the "Jazzics" but changed their name in 1969 in order to avoid confusion which was caused when they called themselves "Kool and the Flames" which was a name extremely similar to one in which James Brown was using at the time. This then caused the group to rename themselves to "Kool & the Gang". 1969 saw them signed to De-Lite Records under Gene Redd who owned the label.
In 1969 under De-Lite records the band released their self titled debut album "Kool & The Gang". It is considered to be a classic in funk music and has been sampled by over 10 artists since its release.
In 1975 the band released their very well received alum "Light Of Worlds" this received 3.5 stars from rolling stone and contained the very successful song "Higher Plane" this song was able to reach number 1 on the R&B charts.
Many Kool and the gang songs have gone on to feature on multiple platforms. Songs have been used in films such as "Baby Boy", multiple commercials such as a Nike shoe commercial starring LeBron James and even the video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City.
Over the course of a career that’s now lasted for well over thirty years, UB40 have made a name for themselves as one of the most successful reggae acts in history. They’ve been successful the world over, but are probably best loved in their native United Kingdom, where they’ve had no fewer than fifty singles make the singles chart. In the U.S., meanwhile, they’ve had two huge number one successes, including “Red Red Wine” - probably their signature song - and their take on Elvis Presley’s classic “Can’t Help Falling in Love”.
It’s difficult to speak too clearly about the current lineup of the group, not least because it’s subject to legal proceedings; there’s now both a UB40 and a ‘UB40 Reunited’, with the latter band boasting original singer Ali Campbell, long-time trumpeter Astro and keyboardist Mickey Virtue. At the heart of the conflict is a spat between Campbell and his brother Duncan, who remains in the original UB40 - who, confusingly, are also still a going concern. Either way, it shouldn’t be allowed to overshadow an impressive legacy, the most important part of which is likely the example that UB40 set, with their diverse ethnic background, for other multi-cultural musical outfits in the UK.
Kool and the Gang and are one the greatest disco bands ever. Their classic brand of jazz, soul, funk and disco never fails to get you dancing. Thankfully, they remain a highly active touring band. Needless to say, though, the band has had numerous line-up changes over their forty-odd year history.
You can imagine my excitement when I got the opportunity to see the legends perform at the Wildflower Festival in Texas this May. The set opened with a rendition of 1985 chart-topper, ‘Fresh.’ ‘We gonna get this party started!’ The front man yelled. ‘Let Me Hear You!’ he shouted to the crowd. We obeyed, yelling and whooping.
Kool and the Gang gave one incredible performance. Musical skill and funky dance moves abounded. They delivered the hits with finesse. It was a thrill to see them perform ‘Jungle Boogie and ‘Get Down on It.’ The evening ended with ‘Good Times.’ We all sang and danced along enthusiastically and the singers pleased the crowd be closing with the lyrics, ‘we hope you had a good time.’ Suddenly it was the end of the gig. The evening had whipped by in frenzy of jazz funk thrill. The only indicator that we’d been there for an hour and a half was the fatigue in our legs from all that dancing. Take any opportunity you get to see Kool and the Gang live!
Han93
UB40 is a British reggae/pop band that has been in the industry for over thirty years. Although their membership has changed over the years, they are still touring and entertaining fans around the world. They generally perform in large venues and outdoor festivals.
The entertainment is based on the music and vocals rather than special effects and dance routines. Their opening act is usually a DJ playing classic reggae songs to get the audience dancing and in the mood.
Their current lead singer Duncan Campbell brings a deeper, more soulful tone to the lyrics. UB40 is well-known for its covers as well as its original music. UB40 in concert plays all the old favorites and covers as well as their newer music. They have the sort of show that draws the audience in so that they are dancing and singing along with every song. The audience tends to be a little older these days, but after 15 minutes of singing and dancing, the years seem to melt away for the evening.
UB40 plays for two solid hours. The show is short on the stories and preaching and long on the singing and music. The band is not out there to promote some message or view but to help the audience have a great time. They usually back-load the second half of the show with classics to leave everyone with a good feeling at the end.
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