Delegation was a European disco and R&B band. Delegation got its start in England in the 1970s by Ricky Bailey, Len Coley and Roddy Harris. Working with producer Ken Gold, they recorded and released some successful UK hits like The Promise of Love and Where Is The Love. The release of Oh Honey in 1979, a groovy jam that hit the charts in many countries, secured the band’s disco icon status right at the end of the era. The accompanying album, The Promise of Love, included a handful of solid cuts including the upbeat song Someone Oughta Write a Song (About You Baby), along with the ballad Mr. Heartbreak. By 1980, Coley and Harris were replaced by Ray Patterson and Bruce Dunbar, and the band soldiered onward with lesser successful albums. Delegation still plays their old hits around Europe led by Rick Bailey and several former band members, most recently at a sold out gig at a small venue in Paris in late 2018. The Dankura 12 Inch Delegation Heartache #9 vinyl picture sleeve promo has become highly sought after for DJs. We recommend starting your Delegation vinyl LP disco collection with the exceptional albums The Promise Of Love and Eau De Vie. Our LP inventory is constantly changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from disco musicians.

Delegation: A Timeless Journey through Rhythm and Soul

Exploring the Genesis of Delegation

The Birth of a Musical Force

Delegation, a British soul and R&B band, emerged onto the music scene in the late 1970s, leaving an indelible mark with their smooth harmonies and infectious grooves. Formed in 1975, the trio initially consisted of Ricky Bailey, Len Coley, and Roddy Harris. Their early years were marked by collaborations with esteemed producers, paving the way for their unique sound to flourish.

Discography Unveiled

The Delegation Debut: “The Promise of Love” (1976)

Delegation’s debut album, “The Promise of Love,” set the stage for their distinctive blend of soul, funk, and R&B. Released in 1976, the album showcased the group’s vocal prowess and their ability to craft melodies that resonated with audiences worldwide. Tracks like “Oh Honey” and “Where Is the Love (We Used to Know)” became instant classics, establishing Delegation as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of soul music.

A Pinnacle Achievement: “Eau De Vie” (1979)

In 1979, Delegation reached new heights with the release of “Eau De Vie.” The album not only solidified their standing in the music industry but also marked a maturation of their sound. Songs like “Heartache No. 9” and “You and I” showcased the group’s evolution, incorporating elements of disco and funk while maintaining the soulful essence that defined their earlier work.

The 80s Groove: “Delegation” (1981) and “Deuces High” (1982)

The early 1980s saw Delegation embracing the evolving sounds of the era. Their self-titled album, “Delegation,” released in 1981, featured tracks like “Sho’ Nuff Sold On You” and “Stand Up (Reach for the Sky),” capturing the essence of the burgeoning funk and soul scene. “Deuces High,” released in 1982, continued this exploration, with tracks like “Blue Girl” and “Mr. Heartbreak” showcasing the band’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes.

Later Years: “Encore” (1983) and Beyond

“Encore,” released in 1983, marked the end of an era for Delegation as the original trio disbanded. Despite the changes, the album maintained the group’s signature sound, offering tracks like “Singing” and “If You Were a Song” that echoed the brilliance of their earlier work. Subsequent albums like “Eternity” (1984) and “The Mix” (1987) continued to explore new sonic territories, ensuring that Delegation’s legacy endured beyond their initial heyday.

Influences and Inspirations

The Soulful Roots: The Temptations and The Stylistics

Delegation’s music bears the unmistakable imprint of soul legends like The Temptations and The Stylistics. The smooth harmonies and emotionally charged performances of these influential groups undoubtedly played a role in shaping Delegation’s approach to their craft.

The Funk Connection: Kool & the Gang and Earth, Wind & Fire

As funk gained prominence in the 1970s, Delegation found inspiration in the infectious grooves of bands like Kool & the Gang and Earth, Wind & Fire. The rhythmic complexities and danceable beats of these funk pioneers left an indelible mark on Delegation’s sound, evident in tracks like “Put a Little Love On Me” and “You and Your Love.”

Crossing Genres: The Bee Gees and Michael Jackson

Delegation’s willingness to explore different musical styles drew parallels with versatile artists like The Bee Gees and Michael Jackson. The seamless blend of soul, funk, and disco in Delegation’s repertoire resonated with the genre-defying approach of these iconic figures, showcasing a commitment to musical innovation.

Legacy and Impact

A Timeless Sound: Endurance in the Face of Change

Delegation’s music continues to find new audiences, a testament to the timeless quality of their sound. Despite changes in the music industry and evolving tastes, the soulful resonance and rhythmic allure of Delegation’s catalog ensure their enduring relevance.

Influence on Contemporary Artists: The Legacy Lives On

Contemporary artists continue to draw inspiration from Delegation’s unique blend of soul and R&B. The seamless fusion of genres and the emphasis on heartfelt vocals have left an indelible mark on a new generation of musicians, ensuring that Delegation’s legacy lives on through their influence.

Final Notes

Delegation’s journey through the realms of soul, funk, and R&B stands as a testament to their enduring musicality. From their humble beginnings in the 1970s to the exploration of new sounds in the 1980s, Delegation remains a beacon of innovation and artistry. As their melodies continue to echo through time, the impact of Delegation on the landscape of soul music remains indelible.

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