Dazz Band

Formation and Early Career: The Dazz Band is an American funk and R&B group that originated in Cleveland, Ohio, in the late 1970s. Originally known as Kinsman Dazz, the band was formed by Bobby Harris, and its lineup included Michael Calhoun, Kenny Pettus, Isaac "Ike" Wiley Jr., Pierre DeMudd, and his brother Michael Wiley. The band quickly gained attention in the local music scene for their dynamic live performances and infectious funk grooves.

Chart-Topping Success with "Let It Whip": The Dazz Band achieved mainstream success with their hit single "Let It Whip", released in 1982. The song reached the top of the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and also peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. "Let It Whip" became the band's signature song and earned them a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1983. The song's infectious beat, catchy hook, and upbeat lyrics solidified the Dazz Band's status as one of the leading funk acts of the 1980s.

Continued Success and Musical Evolution: Following the success of "Let It Whip", the Dazz Band released several albums throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, showcasing their versatility and musical evolution. Their albums, including "Keep It Live" (1982), "Joystick" (1983), and "Hot Spot" (1985), featured a mix of funk, R&B, and pop influences, with the band experimenting with new sounds and styles while staying true to their funk roots. Despite changes in the music industry and evolving trends, the Dazz Band continued to produce chart-topping hits and maintain a loyal fan base.

Grammy Award-Winning Success: In addition to their Grammy Award for "Let It Whip", the Dazz Band received further recognition for their contributions to the funk and R&B genres. They were nominated for several other Grammy Awards over the years, including Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for their album "Joystick" in 1984. The band's consistent chart success and critical acclaim solidified their place in music history as one of the most influential funk bands of their time.

Legacy and Influence: The Dazz Band's impact on the funk and R&B genres extends beyond their chart-topping hits and Grammy Awards. Their innovative sound, infectious grooves, and dynamic performances continue to inspire artists and musicians across generations. The Dazz Band's music remains a staple of radio playlists, dance floors, and nostalgic throwback parties, ensuring that their legacy as funk pioneers endures for years to come.