The Capitols: The Band that Defined the Sound of the 70s
The Capitols were one of the most influential and iconic bands of the 1970s. The group formed in 1971 and achieved success with the release of their first album, The Capitols: The Sound of the 70s. The album featured several hit singles, including "Cool Jerk," which reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The band also released several other albums, including the gold-selling album, The Capitols: The Best of the 70s.
The Capitols' music was a mix of soul, funk, and pop, and their sound was often described as "disco funk." They incorporated elements of jazz, blues, and reggae into their music, making it unique and distinctive. The band's members included lead vocalist and bassist George Clinton, keyboardist and guitarist Bernie Worrell, drummer, and percussionist Clyde Stubblefield, and guitarist Eddie Hazel.
The band was one of the first to use synthesizers and other electronic instruments in their music, making them pioneers in the use of technology in music. They were also one of the first bands to popularize the idea of having a live band playing along with recorded tracks. This technique was used in many of their songs, such as "Atomic Dog" and "Flashlight."
The Capitols were also known for their energetic and dynamic live performances. They often performed with a high level of energy and showmanship, which earned them a large and devoted fan base. They played in a variety of venues, from small clubs to large arenas, and were often invited to appear on television and radio programs.
The Capitols were also influential in the development of the funk genre. They combined elements of blues, jazz, and soul with a heavy emphasis on syncopated rhythms and bass lines. This new sound was a major influence on later funk bands, such as Parliament-Funkadelic and the Ohio Players.
The Capitols were also one of the first bands to incorporate rap into their music. They often featured rappers such as Grandmaster Flash, Kurtis Blow, and Melle Mel in their songs. This early form of rap was a major influence on later hip-hop artists.
The Capitols' influence on the music of the 1970s was immense. They helped to define the sound of the decade and paved the way for many of the bands and artists that would come after them. Their sound was unique and innovative and their influence can still be heard in the music of today.
The Capitols are one of the most iconic and influential bands of the 1970s. Their sound was unique and innovative, and they were one of the first to incorporate elements of rap and synthesizers into their music. Their influence can be heard in the music of later funk and hip-hop artists, and their legacy continues to be felt today. The Capitols are truly the band that defined the sound of the 70s.
Their popularity
The Capitols were a soul band from the mid-1960s to the late 1970s that defined the sound of the 70s. With their unique blend of funk and soul, the Capitols created a whole new genre of music that was embraced by fans of all ages. From their self-titled debut album in 1966 to their final studio album in 1978, the Capitols created a sound that has been copied and imitated ever since.
The Capitols were formed in Washington, D.C. in 1964 by lead singer and rhythm guitarist William "Smokey" Robinson, bassist Donald "Duck" Dunn, and drummer Al Jackson Jr. The group was initially formed as a backing band for Robinson's solo career but soon developed its own unique sound and style.
The Capitols' debut album, The Capitols, featured Robinson's signature falsetto vocals and the group's signature funk sound. The album featured the hit single "Cool Jerk," which quickly became a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. This success led to the group's first tour, which was followed by the release of their second album, Dance the Cool Jerk. This album featured the hit singles "Tighten Up," "Soul Finger," and "I Got You (I Feel Good)," which all became Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100.
The Capitols' popularity continued to grow throughout the 70s, and their sound was embraced by a wide variety of fans. They released several more albums throughout the decade, including the successful Live at the Apollo and Get Down, which featured some of the group's most iconic songs. The Capitols also had a successful touring career, performing in cities all across the United States and Canada.
The Capitols' influence on the music of the 70s was undeniable. They helped to define a new genre of music that would become known as funk, which is still popular today. The group's unique sound and style also had a major impact on other genres, including disco and R&B.
In addition to their musical influence, the Capitols were also pioneers in the music business. The group was among the first to sign with a major record label (Atlantic Records) and was also one of the first African-American groups to be featured in a major magazine (Rolling Stone). The group was also featured on the cover of Time magazine in 1975, cementing their place in music history.
The Capitols' influence on music and culture has been profound. Their unique sound and style helped to shape an entire generation of music and culture. The group's success has been celebrated by both music fans and critics alike, and their songs continue to be heard on classic radio stations and in popular movies and TV shows.
The Capitols are one of the most influential bands of the 70s and are still considered to be one of the most influential soul bands of all time. Their unique blend of funk and soul helped to define a generation of music and culture and has continued to influence musicians and fans alike. The Capitols have truly earned their place as one of the most iconic bands of the 70s and will continue to be remembered for years to come.