Chic & Sister Sledge Perfect Blend On Boogie

That irresistible base-line that could cut through a rough diamond, a simple rhythmic groove as smooth as a freshly re-surfaced road, lush string arrangements, rich vocals and a beat that kicked and kept better time than the speaking clock. 'A combination of style that's sleek and neat, put it together, there you have it, Chic', succinctly put in 1992's 'Something You Can Feel'. A truly unmistakable sound. So, what was it about Chic that took Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards on an incredible ride through the decades, becoming in-demand record producers and influential groove merchants?

Having met in 1970 and done their apprenticeships by performing and touring in a variety of bands -- Boys and The Big Apple Band, the latter 'A Fifth Of Beethoven' fame with Walter Murphy -- Nile and Bernard were best known for supporting New York City, before forming Chic in 1976.

They recruited Tony Thompson the former drummer from Ecstasy, Passion & Pain and also hired singer Norma Jean Wright, on the basis that Norma would be allowed to pursue a solo career alongside her Chic duties. The backing vocalists included Alfa Anderson (who would later move up to take over co-front-line duties) and aspiring soul singer, Luther Vandross.

Luci Martin was also recruited to join the group in 1978, although Norma Jean later left the line-up to follow a solo career, releasing a self titled album on Bearsville in 1978, featuring the full Chic line-up and the background vocals of Luther Vandross. It was at that point that Alfa became part of the best known band line-up.

Working with the now renowned recording engineer, Bob Clearmountain, they created a demo which included 'Everybody Dance' and Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah). Chic signed to Atlantic. On Boogie from 6pm East African time TODAY, I will feature Chic & Sister Sledge, the latter is an American musical group from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, formed in 1972 and consisting of four sisters: Kim Sledge (born August 21, 1957) Debbie Sledge (born July 9, 1954), Joni Sledge (born September 13, 1955), and Kathy Sledge (born January 6, 1959). Today's show will be interesting, cos you know what? Most of the tracks you're going to hear today were produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards from Chic. So there you have it!

Be sure to tune in to Times 100.5 FM from 6pm Sunday East Africa Time, Or Listen live on stream at timesfm.co.tz For International listeners, view World Time Zone Map for current time in your area.

Thanks for visiting my blog, catch up with you on the show!

JOETT
Radio Presenter, Recording Artist & Vocal Coach

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