The Gap Band's founding member Ronnie Wilson passed away November 2, 2021. Ronnie, with his brothers Charlie and Robert, formed The Gap Band in the early 1970s in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Ronnie and Charlie's younger brother Robert passed away in 2010.
The band's name was inspired by three streets in Tulsa, these were Greenwood, Archer and Pine. These three streets defined the "Black Wall Street" district destroyed in the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Ronnie was a singer and multi-instrumentalist who played keyboards, trumpet and flugelhorn. He was the oldest of the three brothers. As noted in the bands biography on AllMusic, opens a new window, The Gap Band produced "15 Top Ten R&B singles ranging from ferocious funk anthems to gorgeous slow jams." Many are familiar with their hits "Burn Rubber", "Early in the Morning" and "You Dropped a Bomb on Me."
Timeless music can be defined as being so good that it cannot be affected by change. The Gap Band made timeless music. Nothing will change that. But don't take my word for it, click the album cover then use your library card to listen for yourself on hoopla!
Suggested Albums
The Best of The Gap Band, opens a new window was released in 1995. The album includes their most popular hits, making it the perfect introduction for first time listeners.
is the bands fourth studio album. It was released in 1979. A must listen for those wanting to go beyond the hits played on radio.
The Gap Band II
The Gap Band III, opens a new window is the band's fifth studio album. It was released in 1980 and went platinum. If you're a fan of the band's track "Burn Rubber On Me," which appears on this album, then you'll certainly want to give the rest of the album a listen.
The Gap Band V, opens a new window was released in 1983 and is the bands seventh album. Notable tracks on this gold album are "Party Train," "Jam the Motha'," Shake a Leg," "Someday," and "I'm Ready, If You're Ready." A must listen when binging on The Gap Band.
The Gap Band Ballads Collection, opens a new window was released in 1998. AllMusic, opens a new window says The Gap Band "weren't known for their slow, romantic numbers," yet this collection proves they were quite capable of producing some sensual tracks.
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