“Walking In Rhythm”, “I Need You”, “Walkin’ In Rhythm”, “Rock Creek Park”
The Blackbyrds were a jazz-funk group with thick R&B streaks running down their backs. Assembled by Donald Byrd in 1974, the group’s original members — percussionist Pericles “Perk” Jacobs, Jr., drummer Keith Killgo, keyboardist Kevin Toney, reeds player Allan Barnes, bassist Joe Hall, guitarist Barney Perry — were mined from Howard University’s music department, where the doctor and jazz legend was an instructor. (Other key players included guitarist Orville Saunders and saxophonist/flautist Steve Johnson.)
During the Blackbyrds’ nearly decade-long existence, the group cut a handful of LPs (1973’s The Blackbyrds, 1974’s Flying Start, 1975’s City Life, 1976’s Unfinished Business, 1977’s Action, 1980’s Better Days); scored films (1975’s Cornbread, Earl and Me); and supported artists like B.B. King, Mandrill, and Roberta Flack. “Walking in Rhythm,” “Rock Creek Park,” and “Happy Music” are their three best-known cuts; they have remained underground club classics, and they have been kept alive, in part, through sampling.
More Events in Greater London Listings MORE
Retrograde
★★★★★ ‘The finest new play about a pivotal moment in civil rights history’ The Telegraph Following its…
An Evening with Steve McQueen and Gary Younge
Steve McQueen is one of Britain’s most acclaimed filmmakers and artists. He is the recipient of the Academy Award…
City Of London: Slave Trade Money Trail Tour
Find out how London keeps its memory of the glorification of stolen African lives that capitalised the “streets…
Corinne Bailey Rae presents Black Rainbows
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music and artistry as the Roundhouse Three Sixty festival proudly welcomes Corinne Bailey Rae to…
Holden, Jaz Lee & NIA
In a series of special showcases, our Roundhouse Resident Artists will take centre stage. This is a unique opportunity for…
Hackney (Dalston) Black History Walk
This walk recognises 75 years since the SS Windrush arrived from the Caribbean. It covers from the 1950s…
Limitless Live
The UK’s largest free live music event rooted in social impact returns to the capital in 2025. Limitless…
Apply to be a Roundhouse Resident Artist
Our year-long Resident Artist programme facilitates and supports the creative and professional development of outstanding emerging musicians, theatre…