Back in the day, The Blackbyrds were at the cutting edge of jazz fusion, R&B and funk in the 1970s. Founded by critically acclaimed musician Donald Byrd in the early 70s, the youthful band members became a household staple, touring with such artists as B.B. King. Herbie Hancock, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Roberta Flack and more.
According to their bio, the band’s first big hit, “Do It, Fluid,” was followed up with FLYING START (1974), which yielded their biggest hit, the Grammy-nominated “Walking in Rhythm,” and CITY LIFE (1975), which contained the hit “Happy Music” and the iconic “Rock Creek Park,” which remains one of the most sampled jazz-funk tracks to this day, as well as such hits as “Supernatural Feeling,” Grammy-nominated “Unfinished Business,” “Time is Movin’,” “Dreaming About You” and “Flyin’ High,” among many others.
Under the leadership of original drummer and vocalist, Keith Killgo, the band continues to record, tour and perform globally. The Blackbyrds current lineup includes original founding members Keith Killgo (drums and vocals) and Joe Hall (bass), Paul Spires (vocals), Dominique Toney (vocals), daughter of original band keyboardist Kevin Toney, Roberto Villeda (keyboards), Charles Wright (guitar), Thad Wilson (trumpet), Marshall Keys (saxophone) and Sean Anthony (percussion).
Cynthia interviewed Keith Killgo, the only original member, about his experience with the Blackbyrds in the 1970s, when they first had a hit record. The musician, who was young at the time, explained that they were focused on performing and learning rather than recognizing the significance of their success. They only realized later that “Do It Fluid” had sold 125,000 copies in a week.
Donald Byrd and The Blackbyrds courtesy Blackbyrds
Band Repertoire and Replacement Challenges
The discussion focused on the challenges of replacing departed musicians in a band that maintains a repertoire of 250 songs. Keith explained that finding younger musicians to learn and perform the existing music has been difficult, but noted that they have successfully integrated new members including Paul Spires, who was previously a student, and Kevin Toney’s daughter Dominique.
Music Education’s Decline in Schools
Keith discussed the decline of music education in public schools, particularly noting how funding cuts since the 1980s have led to the elimination of music, art, and dance teachers. Marching bands remain one of the few places where students can still learn instruments, though the curriculum ends in 8th grade, forcing high school music teachers to create their own materials, as many students have no prior experience with musical instruments.
Music Industry Success Strategies
Keith advised young musicians to attend concerts, practice regularly, and network with experienced artists to stay motivated. He emphasized the importance of learning about the music business, including topics like royalties, copyrights, and AI’s impact on the industry. He also recommended his book “Show Me The Money” as a resource for understanding how to increase revenue and become self-sufficient in the music industry.
Keith discussed the importance of exposing young people to the broader aspects of the music industry beyond just performing, including copyright law, intellectual property, management, audio, and lighting. He explained that his educational material, currently being redeveloped with a new cover, will be self-published and available on http://www.blackbyrdsmusic.com next year.
