Kool & The Gang began in Jersey City, New Jersey, in the 1960s, developing from a jazz-minded instrumental group into one of funk’s most durable bands. Brothers Robert “Kool” Bell and Ronald Bell were central to a lineup that combined horns, bass, percussion and a deep understanding of groove.

The group broke through in the early 1970s with hard funk records including “Funky Stuff,” “Jungle Boogie” and “Hollywood Swinging.” Those recordings became staples of funk radio and later influenced generations of hip-hop producers through extensive sampling.

A major reinvention came near the end of the decade when producer Eumir Deodato and singer James “J.T.” Taylor helped move the band toward a smoother R&B and pop sound. “Ladies’ Night” and “Too Hot” began a remarkable run that continued with “Celebration,” “Get Down on It,” “Joanna,” “Fresh” and “Cherish.”

That crossover period turned Kool & The Gang into an international touring force while preserving the rhythmic identity created during the band’s earlier funk years. Their catalog now stretches across funk, soul, R&B, dance and pop.

CLE Radio’s Kool & The Gang page brings together ten major official videos and official audio selections, their biggest Billboard Hot 100 records and the songs that carried the band from raw 1970s funk to global pop success.