Kool & The Gang with Average White Band and The Spinners

Formed in Jersey City in the mid-'60s, Kool & the Gang, led by Robert "Kool" Bell, became R&B icons with hits like "Celebration" and "Jungle Boogie." Their jazz-influenced funk sound earned them numerous Top 40 hits and gold or platinum albums, including Ladies' Night and Emergency. Collaborating with producer Eumir Deodato, they achieved great success in the '80s. They continued to tour and release music, collaborating with younger artists and maintaining a prominent influence in the music world over decades.

Scottish funk/R&B hitmakers Average White Band (AWB) broke barriers with a tight groove; US #1 “Pick Up the Pieces,” hits “Cut the Cake,” “Queen of My Soul”; collab Ben E. King.

The Spinners, formed in Detroit in 1954, are iconic in R&B and Philadelphia Soul, known for hits like "I'll Be Around" and "The Rubberband Man." They've earned six Grammy nods, a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, and widespread acclaim. Working with producer Thom Bell, they became Philly Soul pioneers and remain timelessly influential.