Rare Earth | Artist

Rare Earth is an American rock band formed 1960 in Detroit, Michigan, by Gil Bridges (woodwinds, vocals, percussion, flute), Pete Hoorelbeke (drums, percussion, lead vocals), John Parrish (bass, vocals), Kenny James (organ, keyboards) and Rod Richards (guitar, vocals). The band's music straddled multiple genres of psychedelic pop/rock, blue-eyed soul and funk. Signed to Motown's Rare Earth record label, they were the first big hit-making act signed by Motown that consisted only of white members. They had a number of Top 40 hits in 1970–71, including remakes of The Temptations' "(I Know) I'm Losing You" and "Get Ready". Each was more successful than The Temptations original, with "Get Ready" being their biggest hit, peaking at #4 on the US charts. Their breakthrough album was 1969's Get Ready, which was followed by further excellent releases over the following four years: Ecology (1970), One World (1971), Willie Remembers (1972) and Ma (1973), after which the quality of their recorded output took a downturn. The 1971 live album In Concert is also recommended. The band's last studio album was 2008's A Brand New World, featuring an almost entirely changed lineup, with only Gil Bridges remaining from the founders. Rare Earth continues to perform at corporate events and on the oldies circuit. Their hit "I Just Want to Celebrate" has been used in US-wide advertising campaigns by Ford Motor Company, AT&T Corporation and Nicoderm.

Artist Website: rareearth.com

Featured Albums: Rare Earth

Related Artists: Sweathog

Video Clips: Get Ready, Warm Ride, I Know I'm Losin' You