Though their time in the spotlight was relatively short, Heatwave remains one of the most beloved groups of the 70s. That they even made it as far and as long as they did was the result of an amazing ability to overcome even the most horrific obstacles, including the death of one member and two incidents that left other members paralyzed or severely injured.
Heatwave was formed in the early 70s by a group of U.S. servicemen stationed in Germany. The band went though various changes in personnel and finally settled in England as a septet featuring vocalist brothers Johnny and Keith Wilder and keyboardist/songwriter Rod Temperton. It became the first true international dance group, with members from the U.S, England, Czechoslovakia and Spain. Led by brothers Keith and Johnny Wilder, the group went through tragedy after tragedy in the late 70s and early 80s, but still provided some of the most infectious music of the era.
Read our full biography of Heatwave
Today we take a moment to pay tribute to this memorable band, with a SoulTracks Triple Play of three of Heatwave’s biggest hits: “Boogie Nights,” “Always and Forever” and “Mind Blowin’ Decisions.” Check them out below and enjoy!
