Kokomo: The UK's Funk and Soul Powerhouse

Kokomo is a renowned British funk and soul band that emerged from London's vibrant session musician scene in the 1970s. The group, celebrated for its powerhouse vocals and tight, horn-driven sound, achieved significant commercial success with their self-titled debut album and became a staple of the UK's live music circuit.

Early career

Kokomo was formed in London in 1973, coalescing around a core of highly skilled session players. The band's unique strength lay in its four distinct lead vocalists—Dyan Birch, Frank Collins, Tony O'Malley, and Paddy McHugh—backed by a formidable instrumental lineup featuring members who had worked with artists like Joe Cocker and Arrival.

They quickly built a formidable reputation through relentless touring and dynamic live performances, which led to a recording contract with CBS Records in 1974.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 1975 with the release of their debut album, Kokomo. The album captured their energetic live essence and spawned the hit single "I Can Understand It," which became a club favorite.

This success was solidified by their sophomore effort, 1976's Rise & Shine, and established them as one of Britain's leading acts in the funk and soul genre during that era.

Key tracks

I Can Understand It — This vibrant single from their debut album became the band's signature track and a defining anthem of the UK funk scene.

Use Your Imagination — A standout track showcasing the band's sophisticated harmonies and smooth, soulful groove.

Angel — This song highlights the emotive power of the band's vocal ensemble and their ability to deliver heartfelt ballads.

A Little Bit Further Away — A prime example of Kokomo's intricate musicianship and seamless blend of soul, jazz, and R&B influences.

The band's activity continued through various line-up changes into the 1980s, including the album Kokomo in 1982 on the Rocket label. They also gained notable exposure through their collaboration with Bryan Ferry, providing backing vocals on his 1976 album Let's Stick Together and subsequent tours, further cementing their industry credibility.

After a long hiatus, a reformed Kokomo returned to recording with 2008's Kokomo Blue, proving their timeless sound still resonated with fans of classic funk and soul music.

Average White Band This Scottish funk band shares Kokomo's commitment to authentic, horn-led grooves and polished vocal delivery.

Hot Chocolate Another successful UK group from the same period blending soul, funk, and pop with multiple vocalists.

Light Of The World A key act in the British funk and jazz-funk movement, paralleling Kokomo's rise in the London scene.

Real Thing Fellow British soul group known for strong vocal harmonies and chart success in the mid-to-late 1970s.

Kokomo's music maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on classic soul FM stations, specialist funk programs, and online radio streams dedicated to 70s and 80s revival sounds. Their tracks are regularly featured in rotations that celebrate the golden era of British rhythm and blues.

Listeners can discover the dynamic sound of Kokomo through the radio stations featured on our website. Tune in to onairium.com to hear their classic funk and soul hits on dedicated stations playing the best of the genre.