The Blackbyrds were a jazz-funk group with thick R&B streaks running down their backs. Assembled by Donald Byrd in 1974, the group's original members percussionist Pericles "Perk" Jacobs, Jr., drummer Keith Killgo, keyboardist Kevin Toney, reeds player Allan Barnes, bassist Joe Hall, guitarist Barney Perry were mined from Howard University's music department, where the doctor and jazz legend was an instructor. (Other key players included guitarist Orville Saunders and saxophonist/flautist Steve Johnson.) During the Blackbyrds' nearly decade-long existence, the group cut a handful of LPs (1973's The Blackbyrds, 1974's Flying Start, 1975's City Life, 1976's Unfinished Business, 1977's Action, 1980's Better Days); scored films (1975's Cornbread, Earl and Me); and supported artists like B.B. King, Mandrill, and Roberta Flack. "Walking in Rhythm," "Rock Creek Park," and "Happy Music" are their three best-known cuts; they have remained underground club classics, and they have been kept alive, in part, through sampling. The group's catalog has been overhauled and reissued a number of times; multiple best-ofs have been released (Fantasy's Greatest Hits is the strongest and most thorough), and most of the group's full-length output has been put out on CD through two-fers.
A massive thank you for the add guys. Been into your music since the 70's. My all time favourite Blackbyrds track has to be "Rock Creek Park" An absolute classic! Respect and best wishes from London :)
Mar 22 2007 12:53 PM
MUSIC FOR THE B-BOYZ !!!
Berno aka "DJ.Cutsfaster".
MUSIC FROM ANOTHER PLANET.
An incredibly FUNky collective that still has us, Walking In Rhythm all these years later. Oh how you made a joyful noise. Thank you all!!!...Keep It Hot
I simply love you guys!! i havent been able to put down your collection since Christmas...! I grew up to you guys, Dr. Donald Byrd, Bobbi H., The Crusaders, George Duke, Roy Ayers...and so much more!! I truely love this jazz-fusion!! Please keep doing your thing!!! Much luv and God bless!
