The Equals –

More than a hit miracle: Rock, racial equality and rebellion

The Equals were a British rock band formed in London in 1965. They were one of the first mixed-race bands in the UK and known for their unique mix of R&B, rock, and pop, sometimes underscored by pounding rhythms. The band consisted of Eddy Grant, twin brothers Dervin 'Derv' and Lincoln Gordon, Pat Lloyd, and John Hall. They chose the name Equals because the band consisted of Black and white musicians, yet all had equal status.

Breakthrough with "Baby, Come Back"

The Equals reached the charts with their debut singles " I Won't Be There " and " Hold Me Closer " in 1967, but it wasn't until their fifth single, " Baby, Come Back, " that they truly became a household name. The song reached number one in the UK and was also a hit in several other countries (BRAVO number 16). It is considered one of their best-known songs. Their most successful track in BRAVO was " Viva Bobby Joe " (number 9) in 1969.

Successful in the 1970s

Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, The Equals released a further string of successful singles, including " I Get So Excited, " "Softly Softly ," "Green Light," "Michael and the Slipper Tree," "Rub a Dub Dub," "Soul Brother Clifford," and " Black Skin Blue Eyed Boys. " They were known for their energetic live performances and were popular in the UK and Europe.

Socially critical texts

The Equals were also known for their socially critical lyrics, which addressed issues such as racial equality, poverty, and war. Their song " Police on My Back " was written in response to the death of a young Black man at the hands of police in London, and the band openly supported the civil rights movements in Great Britain and the USA.

Dissolution of the band

In 1970, Eddy Grant left the band to pursue a solo career. The band itself struggled to remain successful without Eddy Grant. They finally split up in 1976. Grant enjoyed some success, especially in the 1980s: " I Don't Wanna Dance " (BRAVO No. 9), "Electric Avenue" (BRAVO No. 16) in 1983, and "Gimme Hope Jo'anna" (BRAVO No. 8) in 1988. Jo'anna, by the way, is not a woman's name, but a short form for the South African city of Johannesburg. In the song, Grant calls for an end to apartheid.

Summary

Despite their relatively short career, The Equals had a significant impact on the British music scene by breaking barriers and challenging societal norms. Their music is still loved and appreciated by fans today, and their legacy lives on. The Equals were a pioneering band who broke barriers and challenged societal norms through their unique blend of music, socially critical lyrics, and diverse lineup. They left a lasting mark on the British music scene and continue to inspire new generations of artists.