BIOGRAPHY
The SOS Band was formed in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1977. The group's original lineup included vocalists Mary Davis and Jason Bryant, along with musicians Bruno Speight, Jamecia Bennett, John Alexander Simpson, Billy Ellis, and Abdul Ra'oof.
The band's name stands for "Sounds of Success" or "SOS," reflecting their aspirations for musical accomplishment. The SOS Band's early years were marked by their association with music producer and keyboardist Jason Bryant.
In 1980, The SOS Band signed with Tabu Records, a subsidiary of CBS Records, and their self-titled debut album was released. The album featured the single "Take Your Time (Do It Right)," which became a major hit and reached the top of the R&B charts. The success of their debut set the stage for the band's prominence in the R&B and funk scenes.
Throughout the 1980s, The SOS Band continued to release successful albums, including "S.O.S." (1980), "Too" (1981), and "On the Rise" (1983). They achieved further success with hit singles like "Just Be Good to Me," "Tell Me If You Still Care," and "The Finest."
The SOS Band's sound was characterized by a blend of R&B, funk, and electro-funk, and their music featured Mary Davis's soulful vocals alongside catchy hooks and innovative production.
Despite lineup changes over the years, with Mary Davis remaining a constant presence, The SOS Band continued to release albums into the 1990s and beyond. Their influence on the electro-funk genre and their contribution to the R&B landscape are recognized by music enthusiasts.
The legacy of The SOS Band is preserved through their chart-topping hits and their impact on the evolution of R&B and funk music during the 1980s. Their songs remain popular in various music circles, and the group's contribution to the soundtrack of the era is celebrated by fans of classic R&B.