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A nostalgic, mainstream british soul act.
Formed in 1970, Britain’s longest-established soul band, The Real Thing, are still performing after an incredible 50 years together. Now best known for their legendary hits “You To Me Are Everything”, “Can’t Get By Without You” and “Can You Feel the Force” as well as their ground-breaking 1977 song, “Children of the Ghetto” (most recently covered by singer Mary J Blige), The Real Thing remain Britain’s most successful black group of all-time. Hailing from Toxteth in Liverpool, the original quartet – brothers Eddy and Chris Amoo, Dave Smith and Ray Lake – was sometimes dubbed ‘The Black Beatles’ in the British press, but their distinctive transatlantic vocal sound and good looks brought them a completely different audience. A documentary about the group’s amazing career “Everything – The Real Thing Story”, directed by Simon Sheridan, premiered in London’s West End in October 2019 and led to the release of “Someone Oughta Write a Song (About You Baby)” written by Ken Gold and Mick Denne and recorded in the autumn of 1976, but never previously heard before. The Real Thing, with original vocalists Chris Amoo and Dave Smith, backed by a live 5 piece band, are on tour promoting their first new album of original material in 44 years ‘A Brand New Day' along with their new soulful single ‘Hang On, Never Let Go’, which is subject to heavy radio & TV promotion. This track will be special for all the lovers who grew up listening to their classic hits.
The Real Thing plays british soul, classic soul, disco - rooted in tradition rather than chasing trends.
The Real Thing's live sets are tight and well-rehearsed - mid-paced sets where the arrangements come through clearly.
The Real Thing is a 4-piece group: Chris Amoo, Eddy Amoo, Dave Smith, Ray Lake.
The Real Thing plays Boisdale of Canary Wharf in London on Friday 2 October. There are 4 The Real Thing shows currently listed on Mood.