Remember This: Groups — Part 2
Last week’s column listed some of my favorite groups from the past. Here are a few more:
Cover Girls
Another girl group from the 80-90’s. They were a fixture on a local LA radio station called Power 106 back in the day. I remember seeing them as an opening act for New Kids on the Block. Essential songs: Because of You, Wishing on a Star http://youtu.be/lSwDOENwNR8
Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam
Produced by the group Full Force, this group peaked with their album “Spanish Fly”. There were great dance songs and power ballads too. They broke up before I ever got to see them in concert. Essential songs: I Wonder If I Take You Home, Head to Toe http://youtu.be/51Iq8JmmfxY
En Vogue
Four strong females made up this group (at their peak). They were excellent singers, and had great harmonies. They were the female equivalent to Boyz II Men. Great at a capella singing. Essential songs: Hold On, My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It) http://youtu.be/Xpugp6DIb3I
Erasure
Vince Clarke and Andy Bell are Erasure, masters of synth-pop. Andy Bell is an out and proud gay man. Vince is a founding member of Depeche Mode and Yaz. Essential songs: Chains of Love, Always http://youtu.be/uttV1VZUgQQ
Pet Shop Boys
Another duo that specialized in synth-pop. And they are still popular today on the touring circuit. I love their sense of humor. Essential songs: West End Boys, Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots of Money) http://youtu.be/di60NYGu03Y
Kool and the Gang
This group from the 70-80’s had a good run with fun, funky singles like “Celebration” and “Get Down on it.” Looking forward to seeing them on tour this summer with Gladys Knight. Essential songs: Celebration, Ladies Night http://youtu.be/3GwjfUFyY6M
Chic
Producer-writers Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edward were the masterminds of this 4-some. They produced some of the hottest songs of the disco era, as well as went on to produce everyone from Madonna to David Bowie and more. Essential songs: Good Times, Le Freak http://youtu.be/h1qQ1SKNlgY
Boyz II Men
Known for their incredible harmonies, and their string of hits on the pop and R&B charts. Most popular as 4 guys, now down to 3. Essential songs: End of the Road, I’ll Make Love to You http://youtu.be/fV8vB1BB2qc
That’s it! I hope you enjoyed my trip down memory lane. I would love to hear your thoughts.
KiltManinSoCal is a Los Angeles-based writer and designer. Be sure to check out the latest T-Shirts for sale here, including Marriage Equality and Real Men Wear Kilts lines. They make great gifts for friends, family and loved ones.