CAMEo
Genre: Funk, R&B, Soul
Years Active: 1974–present
Cameo, led by Larry Blackmon, originated in 1974 as the New York City Players before rebranding in 1976 following a label dispute. Initially a large, horn-driven funk ensemble, the group evolved in the early 1980s into a streamlined, synth-oriented act after relocating to Atlanta. Their shift toward drum machines and minimal basslines defined releases like Word Up! (1986), whose title track topped Billboard’s R&B chart. Known for blending live funk instrumentation with early electronic production, Cameo has remained active through touring and legacy influence across R&B, hip-hop, and pop.
Career Highlights
Landed their first major breakthrough with “I Just Want to Be” (1979), pushing them into gold-selling territory
Reinvented their entire sound in the early ’80s, pivoting from full-band funk to a synth-driven identity ahead of the curve
Dominated charts with “Word Up!” (1986), earning a No. 1 R&B hit and global crossover success
Turned “Candy” into a long-term cultural staple, later resurfacing in major pop records decades after release
Placed “Word Up!” in global commercials and media (notably high-profile ad campaigns), extending the song’s reach far beyond its original release era
Music Videos
Live Performances
