Average White Band (AWB) is a Scottish funk and R&B band that formed in the early 1970s. The band’s music is known for its tight grooves, sophisticated horn arrangements, and soulful vocals. They gained international recognition with their hit song “Pick Up the Pieces,” which topped the charts in the United States and Europe in 1974.
AWB’s music drew heavily from American funk and soul influences, and they were known for their high-energy live performances. Their success in the 1970s paved the way for later funk bands like Earth, Wind & Fire and Chic.
The band went through various lineup changes over the years but continued to tour and record new music. They released a number of successful albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including “Cut the Cake” and “Soul Searching.” Their music has been sampled by many artists in hip hop and R&B, and their legacy in funk and soul music remains strong to this day.
AWB’s impact on popular music has been significant, and their influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary artists. Their blend of funk, R&B, and soul has stood the test of time, making them one of the most important bands of the 1970s funk and soul scene.
1. When Will You Be Mine (1979)
“When Will You Be Mine” is a disco-funk track by Scottish band Average White Band, released in 1979. The song features the band’s signature groovy basslines and catchy brass hooks, layered over a danceable beat. The lyrics tell the story of a man pleading with his love interest to commit to a relationship, promising to be faithful and supportive. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody make it a standout track in the band’s discography. “When Will You Be Mine” remains a popular disco classic, and a testament to the enduring appeal of 1970s funk and soul music.
2. The Jugglers (1973)
“The Jugglers” is a funk instrumental track by the Scottish band Average White Band, released in 1973 as part of their second album, “AWB”. The song features the band’s trademark tight rhythms and soulful horn arrangements, with a prominent bassline and guitar riffs that interlock like a well-oiled machine. The track’s upbeat tempo and lively energy make it a popular choice for funk and jazz enthusiasts, and it showcases the band’s impressive musicianship. “The Jugglers” is a testament to the group’s ability to create a groove that is both infectious and intricate, cementing their place as one of the leading funk bands of the era.
3. Person to Person (1974)
“Person to Person” is a song by Average White Band that was released in 1974. The song features a funky bassline, catchy horns, and soulful vocals, creating a high-energy groove that is impossible not to dance to. It’s a classic example of the band’s ability to create infectious funk and R&B music that appeals to a wide audience. “Person to Person” showcases the band’s musicianship and their ability to create music that is both sophisticated and accessible. It remains a beloved favorite of fans of funk and soul music and is a testament to the enduring legacy of Average White Band.
4. Let’s Go Round Again!! (1980)
“Let’s Go Round Again” is a song by Average White Band that was released in 1980. The song features a funky, danceable melody and catchy lyrics about the ups and downs of relationships. It’s a soulful tribute to the importance of perseverance and the power of love to overcome obstacles. The band’s tight grooves and horn arrangements add to the song’s infectious energy, making it a classic example of their ability to create fun, upbeat music. “Let’s Go Round Again” remains a beloved favorite of fans of funk and soul music and is a testament to the enduring legacy of Average White Band.
5. If I Ever Lose This Heaven (1975)
“If I Ever Lose This Heaven” is a soulful and romantic track by the Scottish funk band Average White Band, released in 1975 as part of their album “Cut the Cake”. The song features a smooth and groovy bassline, funky guitar riffs, and rich harmonies that showcase the band’s musical versatility. The lyrics express the fear of losing the love of one’s life and the gratitude for its existence, with a catchy chorus that is impossible to resist singing along to. “If I Ever Lose This Heaven” became a popular hit for the band and remains a beloved classic in the world of soul and funk music.
6. Queen Of My Soul (1976)
“Queen of My Soul” is a song by Average White Band that was released in 1976. The song features a smooth, soulful melody and romantic lyrics about the power of love. It’s a heartfelt tribute to a woman who has captured the heart of the singer, with the band’s trademark tight grooves and horn arrangements adding to the song’s emotional impact. “Queen of My Soul” is a classic example of the band’s ability to create soulful, romantic music that resonates with listeners. It remains a beloved favorite of fans of funk and soul music and is a testament to the enduring appeal of Average White Band.
7. Work To Do (1974)
“Work to Do” is a song by Average White Band that was released in 1974. The song features a funky, upbeat melody and soulful vocals that encourage listeners to keep pushing forward and striving for success. The band’s tight grooves and horn arrangements add to the song’s infectious energy, making it a classic example of their ability to create uplifting, empowering music. “Work to Do” remains a beloved favorite of fans of funk and soul music and is a testament to the enduring legacy of Average White Band as one of the most influential bands of the 1970s funk and soul scene.
8. A Love Of Your Own (1976)
“A Love of Your Own” is a song by Average White Band that was released in 1976. The song features a mellow, romantic melody and heartfelt lyrics about the search for true love. It’s a soulful tribute to the power of love and the importance of finding someone who truly understands you. The band’s tight grooves and horn arrangements add to the song’s emotional impact, making it a classic example of their ability to create sophisticated, soulful music that resonates with listeners. “A Love of Your Own” remains a beloved favorite of fans of funk and soul music and is a testament to the enduring legacy of Average White Band.
9. Cut The Cake (1975)
“Cut the Cake” is a song by Average White Band that was released in 1975. The song features a funky, upbeat melody and catchy lyrics that encourage listeners to let loose and have fun. The band’s tight grooves and horn arrangements add to the song’s infectious energy, making it impossible not to dance to. “Cut the Cake” is a classic example of the band’s ability to create high-energy, fun music that appeals to a wide audience. It remains a beloved favorite of fans of funk and soul music and is a testament to the enduring legacy of Average White Band.
10. Pick Up The Pieces (1974)
“Pick Up the Pieces” is a song by Average White Band that was released in 1974. The song features a funky, upbeat melody and iconic horn riff that has become synonymous with the band’s sound. The instrumental track showcases the band’s musicianship and ability to create tight, sophisticated grooves that appeal to a wide audience. “Pick Up the Pieces” became a massive hit in the United States and Europe, topping the charts and cementing the band’s place in funk and soul music history. It remains a beloved favorite of fans of the genre and a testament to the enduring legacy of Average White Band.
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.
