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The Blackbyrds

The Blackbyrds are a renowned American rhythm and blues and jazz-funk fusion group, best recognized for their smooth sound and innovative approach to music which blends elements of soul, funk, and jazz. Formed in 1973 at Howard University in Washington, D.C., the group was originally comprised of students under the tutelage of legendary trumpeter Donald Byrd, who himself was a leading force in the fusion of jazz with funk, soul and R&B. The Blackbyrds gained acclaim under Byrd's guidance and went on to produce a series of highly regarded albums through the mid-1970s to the early 1980s.

Their self-titled debut album, "The Blackbyrds," released in 1974, set the stage for a successful recording career that would capture the essence of the era's urban sound. With classic hits such as "Walking in Rhythm," "Rock Creek Park," and "Happy Music," they became emblematic figures of the jazz-funk genre. The band's success continued with albums like "Flying Start" and "City Life," both of which showcased their ability to craft infectious grooves with smooth, harmonious melodies. While they experienced several lineup changes over the years and took a hiatus for a period, The Blackbyrds have continued to perform and record, including more recent releases like "Gotta Fly," which maintains their legacy as influential purveyors of the quintessential fusion sound. Their influence has been widely felt, with their music often sampled in hip-hop and R&B tracks, underlining their enduring impact on contemporary music.

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