Biography
Pleasure is an American band formed in Portland, Oregon in 1972, known for their innovative blend of soul, funk, and jazz with a distinctive street edge. The group emerged from the merger of two local bands, The Franchise and The Soul Masters, bringing together musicians such as drummer Bruce Carter, bassist Nathaniel Phillips, guitarist Marlon McClain, keyboardists Michael and Donald Hepburn, saxophonist Dennis Springer, trombonist/guitarist Dan Brewster, vocalist Sherman Davis, and percussionist Bruce Smith. Their dynamic sound quickly gained traction in the underground black music scene of the late 1970s, earning them a devoted following and cult status.
Pleasure's big break came after jazz saxophonist Grover Washington Jr., a fan of the band, introduced them to Wayne Henderson of The Crusaders. Henderson became their producer and mentor, helping secure a deal with Fantasy Records. Over a six-year relationship with the label, Pleasure released a series of albums that fused jazz, funk, soul, and rock. Their 1979 album 'Future Now' featured the hit single 'Glide,' which reached #55 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #10 on the R&B chart. The band's sophisticated musicianship and genre-crossing style made them influential not only among their contemporaries but also among later generations of hip-hop artists who sampled their work.
Despite not achieving massive mainstream fame, Pleasure's legacy endures through their innovative sound and the enduring popularity of tracks like 'Glide.' Their music continues to be celebrated for its complexity, groove, and influence on both funk and hip-hop, cementing their place as a seminal act in American music history.
Fun Facts
- Pleasure was formed from the merger of two local Portland bands: The Franchise and The Soul Masters.
- Their song 'Glide' became a cult classic and is one of the most sampled tracks in hip-hop and R&B.
- Jazz legend Grover Washington Jr. personally advocated for the band, helping them secure their first record deal.
- Despite their underground status, Pleasure's albums are considered essential listening for funk and jazz-funk enthusiasts.
Members
- Marlon McClain - guitar, original (from 1972 until 1980)
- Bruce Carter - drums (drum set), original
- Sherman Davis - lead vocals, original
- Randy Hall
- Donald Hepburn - keyboard, original
- Michael Hepburn
- Nate Phillips - electric bass guitar, original
- Bruce Smith - original, percussion
- Dennis Springer - original, saxophone
- Dan Brewster - original, trombone
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Wayne Henderson - Producer and mentor; member of The Crusaders who guided the band and produced their albums through his company At Home Productions. (Produced multiple albums for Pleasure (1974–1979)) [1974–1979]
- Grover Washington Jr. - Jazz saxophonist who championed the band and connected them with Wayne Henderson. (Facilitated introduction to Wayne Henderson) [Early 1970s]
Key Collaborators
- Marlon McClain - Guitarist and key songwriter; founding member and musical leader. (All Pleasure albums) [1972–present]
- Bruce Carter - Drummer and founding member; integral to the band's rhythmic foundation. (All Pleasure albums until his death) [1972–2006]
- Nathaniel Phillips - Bassist and founding member; contributed to songwriting and arrangements. (All Pleasure albums) [1972–present]
Artists Influenced
- Numerous hip-hop artists - Pleasure's music, especially their grooves and breaks, has been widely sampled in hip-hop. (Various tracks sampled in hip-hop (notably 'Glide')) [1980s–present]
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| R.O.O.T.S. (Route of Overcoming the Struggle) | 2009-03-23 | Album |
| The Introduction of Marcus Cooper | 2009-06-05 | Album |
| R.O.O.T.S. (Route of Overcoming the Struggle) | 2009-03-23 | Album |
| Break Up To Make Up | 2014-11-18 | Album |
| She Likes | 2018-10-12 | Album |
| R.O.O.T.S. (Route of Overcoming the Struggle) | 2009-03-23 | Album |
| Break Up To Make Up | 2014-11-18 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Did You Wrong (The Introduction of Marcus Cooper)
- Boyfriend #2 (The Introduction of Marcus Cooper)
- I Love Girls
- Under (The Introduction of Marcus Cooper)
- I Like Girls feat. Tyga
- She Likes (She Likes)
- Puddles (feat. Baby Blue, Spectacular, Slickem & Pleasure P)
- Rock with You
- Gotta Have You (The Introduction of Marcus Cooper)
- Fire Lovin (The Introduction of Marcus Cooper)
External Links
Tags: #funk
References
Heard on WWOZ
Pleasure has been played 6 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.