Ready for the World
Albums
Facts about Ready for the World
Ready for the World is an American R&B and electro-funk band formed in Flint, Michigan, in the early 1980s. Here are some facts about them:
Formation and Early Years: Ready for the World was formed in 1982 by brothers Melvin Riley (lead vocals) and Gordon Strozier (guitar) along with Gregory Potts (keyboards), Willie Triplett (drums), John Eaton (bass), and Gerald Valentine (percussion). The band's name was inspired by a song title by the British new wave band Dexys Midnight Runners. Ready for the World initially gained attention with their electrifying live performances and dynamic stage presence.
Breakthrough Success: Ready for the World achieved commercial success with their self-titled debut album, released in 1985. The album featured the hit single "Oh Sheila", which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a massive success worldwide. "Oh Sheila" showcased Ready for the World's signature blend of R&B, funk, and electro-pop, with its catchy melody, infectious groove, and smooth vocals earning the band widespread acclaim and recognition.
Musical Style and Influence: Ready for the World's music is characterized by its blend of R&B, funk, and electro-funk elements, incorporating synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instrumentation. The band's sound was influenced by contemporary acts such as Prince, Rick James, and Zapp, as well as classic R&B and funk artists from the 1970s. Ready for the World's innovative use of technology and their ability to create infectious, danceable grooves helped to define the electro-funk sound of the 1980s.
Chart-Topping Albums and Hits: In addition to their debut album, Ready for the World released several more albums throughout the 1980s and '90s, including "Long Time Coming" (1986), "Ruff 'N' Ready" (1988), and "Straight Down to Business" (1991). The band scored several more hits on the R&B and pop charts, including "Love You Down", "Digital Display", and "Gently". Ready for the World's smooth vocals, catchy hooks, and infectious rhythms endeared them to fans of R&B and pop music, solidifying their status as one of the leading acts of the era.
Legacy and Continued Activity: Ready for the World's music continues to be celebrated by fans of '80s R&B and electro-funk. The band's songs have been sampled and covered by contemporary artists, and their influence can be heard in the work of subsequent generations of musicians. Ready for the World remains active as a band, with various members continuing to perform and record music, ensuring that their legacy as pioneers of electro-funk and R&B endures for years to come.