• Funk Rock

An all black Rock band blessed with the talents of London born guitarist Vernon Reid. Raised in Brooklyn Reid took to guitar at an early age and was making his presence felt on the club scene with the Punk-Funk sounds of DEFUNKT prior to organising the build up of LIVING COLOUR during 1984. LIVING COLOUR was essentially discovered by ROLLING STONES frontman MICK JAGGER who ensnared the guitarist's services for his 'Primitive Cool' album. The singer returned the favour by producing 'Which Way To America' and 'Glamour Boys' on LIVING COLOUR's debut album 'Vivid'.

Reid founded the band whilst studying performing arts in New York in 1984. Two years later vocalist Corey Glover, who had only just acted in the acclaimed Oliver Stone 'Platoon' movie, and drummer Will Calhoun were added. The band crafted a solid reputation on the New York club circuit which culminated in house band term at the infamous CBGB's club where Jagger duly caught their live set. The unit was completed by bassist Manuel 'Muzz' Skillings in 1987. LIVING COLOUR's demo, produced by Jagger, scored the act a deal with major label Epic. However, in spite of the Jagger connection LIVING COLOUR's debut album at first received little attention. LIVING COLOUR toured nationwide to little response until MTV latched onto the video of 'Cult Of Personality', and, proceeding to spin the promo flick a record number of times, exploded the band into the national conscience. The Grammy award winning 'Cult Of Personality, which included samples of John F. Kennedy, became a huge hit for the band as did the follow up 'Open Letter To A Landlord'. LIVING COLOUR stepped up as special guest to the ROLLING STONES 'Steel Wheels' tour, Reid strengthening the ties by contributing to Jagger's solo album...