The Relatives

The Relatives were a gospel-funk band from Dallas, Texas, originally formed in 1970 by brothers Reverend Gean and Reverend Tommie West. Melding soulful gospel lyrics with gritty, psychedelic funk production, they created a unique and powerful sound that was ahead of its time. Though their initial run was short-lived and largely under the radar, their few early recordings left a lasting impression on crate diggers and music historians.

The group experienced a remarkable revival in the late 2000s, when their music was rediscovered and championed by labels like Heavy Light Records and Truth & Soul. This comeback led to acclaimed performances and new recordings, including the 2013 album The Electric Word, which brought their spiritual funk sound to a whole new generation of listeners. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring power of soul, funk, and faith-driven music.

Genres