Vocalist Mitch Ryder (real name William Levise) created DETROIT after a solo career and the release of two albums 1967's 'What Now My Love' and 1969's 'The Detroit-Memphis Experiment'. Previous to these releases Ryder had paid his dues with THE PEPS, BILLY LEE AND THE RIVIERAS and MITCH RYDER AND THE DETROIT WHEELS.

Ryder retired from the music business following the 'Detroit' album due to throat problems. After DETROIT's dissoluttion drummer John Badanjek founded ROCKETS with guitarist Jim McCarty. Ryder returned to the scene in 1978 issuing a string of solo albums.

Guitarist Brett Tuggle would become known as a keyboard player for STEPPENWOLF, DAVID LEE ROTH, WHITESNAKE and JOE SATRIANI.