SLAVE
Genre: R&B, Funk, Soul
Years Active: 1975-Present
Slave is a pioneering funk band formed in Dayton, Ohio in 1975 by trombonist Floyd Miller and trumpeter Steve Washington. Known for their hard-driving grooves, innovative horn arrangements, and dancefloor-shaking basslines, Slave quickly became one of the defining funk groups of the late 1970s and 1980s. Their breakthrough came with the platinum-selling single “Slide” in 1977, followed by hits like “Just a Touch of Love,” “Watching You,” and “Snap Shot.” Slave’s lineup over the years included key members such as Mark Adams (bass), Mark “Drac” Hicks (guitar), Danny Webster (vocals/guitar), and Steve Arrington (drums/vocals), whose solo career also made waves in R&B. Blending raw funk with elements of soul and later electro-funk, Slave left an enduring legacy as part of Dayton’s rich funk heritage and continues to influence new generations of artists through sampling and live performances.
Career Highlights
Broke through with the platinum-certified “Slide” (1977), a chart-topping anthem that set dance floors on fire nationwide.
Kept the funk flowing with classics like “Just a Touch of Love,” “Watching You,” and “Snap Shot” — songs still guaranteed to move a crowd.
Championed the Dayton funk movement, standing tall beside powerhouse peers like Zapp, Lakeside, and the Ohio Players.
Showcased powerhouse talent, with members like Steve Arrington rising from the group’s lineup to solo stardom.
Still bringing the groove live, Slave’s reunion performances carry over four decades of funk energy to today’s stages.
