ARS, also known as the Atlanta Rhythm Section, is an American rock band that formed in 1970 in Georgia. The band’s music is known for its combination of Southern rock, soul, and R&B influences, creating a distinctive sound that sets them apart from other rock bands of the era. The band gained commercial success in the 1970s with hits like “So into You,” “Imaginary Lover,” and “Champagne Jam.”
ARS’ music has been covered by many artists over the years, and their influence can be heard in the work of bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers. The band has gone through various lineup changes over the years but continues to tour and record new music. Their music remains popular with fans of classic rock and has become an enduring part of American music culture.
ARS’ impact on popular music has been significant, and their legacy as one of the most important Southern rock bands of the 1970s has been cemented over time. Their unique blend of rock, soul, and R&B has inspired many artists and continues to resonate with fans around the world.
1. So into You
“So into You” is a soft rock ballad by the American band Atlanta Rhythm Section, released in 1977 as part of their album “A Rock and Roll Alternative”. The song features a memorable guitar riff, a catchy melody, and soothing vocals that perfectly capture the feeling of falling in love. The lyrics express the narrator’s deep affection and admiration for their partner, with lines like “I’m so into you, darling, if you only knew how much I love you”. “So into You” became a signature song for the band and remains a beloved classic in the world of rock and soft rock music.
2. Champagne Jam
“Champagne Jam” is a song by ARS that was released in 1978. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat lyrics about partying and having a good time. It’s a soulful tribute to the joy and excitement of celebration, with the band’s tight grooves and soulful vocals adding to the song’s infectious energy. “Champagne Jam” remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and is a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most important rock bands of the 1970s. The song captures the spirit of the times and has become a classic in the genre.
3. Imaginary Lover
“Imaginary Lover” is a song by ARS that was released in 1978. The song features a memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics about a person who yearns for a love that may only exist in their imagination. The band’s tight musicianship and soulful vocals add to the song’s emotional impact, making it a classic example of their ability to create music that resonates with listeners. “Imaginary Lover” remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and has been covered by many artists over the years. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most influential rock bands of the 1970s.
4. Spooky
“Spooky” is a song by ARS that was released in 1979. The song features a haunting melody and mysterious lyrics about a person who is fascinated by a mysterious, alluring woman. It’s a soulful tribute to the power of attraction and the thrill of the unknown, with the band’s tight grooves and soulful vocals adding to the song’s emotional impact. “Spooky” remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and has been covered by many artists over the years. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most important rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s.
5. I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight
“I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight” is a song by ARS that was released in 1978. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat lyrics about staying positive in the face of adversity. It’s a soulful tribute to the power of resilience and the ability to overcome challenges, with the band’s tight grooves and soulful vocals adding to the song’s emotional impact. “I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight” remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and is a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most important rock bands of the 1970s.
6. Georgia Rhythm
“Georgia Rhythm” is a song by ARS that was released in 1980. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat lyrics about the joy and excitement of Southern living. It’s a celebration of the unique culture and traditions of Georgia, with the band’s soulful vocals and tight grooves adding to the song’s infectious energy. “Georgia Rhythm” remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and has become an anthem for those who love the South. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most important rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s.
7. Angel (What In The World’s Come Over Us)
“Angel (What in the World’s Come Over Us)” is a song by ARS that was released in 1977. The song features a beautiful melody and romantic lyrics about falling in love. It’s a soulful tribute to the transformative power of love, with the band’s tight grooves and horn arrangements adding to the song’s emotional impact. “Angel” showcases the band’s musicianship and their ability to create sophisticated, soulful music that resonates with listeners. It remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and is a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most influential rock bands of the 1970s.
8. Homesick
“Homesick” is a song by ARS that was released in 1979. The song features a beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics about missing home and the people you love. It’s a soulful tribute to the power of nostalgia and the importance of staying connected to your roots. The band’s tight musicianship and soulful vocals add to the song’s emotional impact, making it a classic example of their ability to create music that resonates with listeners. “Homesick” remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and is a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most important rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s.
9. Alien
“Alien” is a song by ARS that was released in 1981. The song features a haunting melody and mysterious lyrics about an unknown visitor from another world. It’s a soulful tribute to the mysteries of the universe and the idea that we are not alone in the cosmos. The band’s tight grooves and soulful vocals add to the song’s emotional impact, creating a sense of wonder and awe that is impossible to ignore. “Alien” remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and is a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most influential rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s.
10. Neon Nites
“Neon Nites” is a song by ARS that was released in 1983. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat lyrics about the excitement and energy of city life. It’s a celebration of the lights, sounds, and rhythms of the urban landscape, with the band’s tight grooves and soulful vocals adding to the song’s infectious energy. “Neon Nites” remains a beloved favorite of fans of Southern rock and is a testament to the enduring legacy of ARS as one of the most important rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s. The song captures the spirit of the times and has become a classic in the genre.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
