Tavares: The Soulful Sound of New Bedford
Tavares is an American R&B and soul group composed of five brothers from New Bedford, Massachusetts. Known for their smooth harmonies and danceable funk rhythms, the group achieved significant success in the 1970s, particularly within the disco genre.
Early Career
Formed in the early 1960s, the brothers-Ralph, Pooch, Chubby, Butch, and Tiny Tavares-began performing locally in New England. They initially recorded under the name "The Tavares Brothers" and later simply "Tavares," signing with Capitol Records in the early 1970s. Their early work established their signature blend of soulful vocals and tight musical arrangements.
Breakthrough
The group's breakthrough came in the mid-1970s as the disco movement gained momentum. Their 1975 album "In the City" and the single "It Only Takes a Minute" became major hits, propelling Tavares to national fame. This success was solidified with their contributions to the soundtrack of the 1977 film "Saturday Night Fever," which became a cultural phenomenon and one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Key Tracks
It Only Takes a Minute - This 1975 single became their first major hit, showcasing their infectious blend of soul and early disco.
Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel - A definitive disco anthem that remains one of their most recognizable songs.
More Than a Woman - Their version of this Bee Gees song, featured on the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack, exposed their music to a massive global audience.
Whodunit - This track demonstrated their versatility, leaning into a funkier sound while maintaining their smooth vocal style.
Throughout the late 1970s, Tavares continued to release successful R&B and disco records. Their music consistently charted on both the pop and soul charts, earning them a loyal fanbase. While their commercial peak aligned with the disco era, their foundation in classic soul and R&B has ensured their music's longevity.
Artists with a similar sound from the same era include The O'Jays, a group known for their rich Philly soul harmonies and social commentary. The stylings of The Spinners also share a similar polished, vocal-group approach to soul and R&B. For their upbeat, dance-oriented material, comparisons can be drawn to KC and the Sunshine Band.
