The Intruders: The Band that Defined the Sound of the 70s

Introduction

The Intruders were one of the most successful and influential bands of the 1970s. Formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the early 1960s, the group's blend of soul, R&B, and pop music helped define the sound of the decade. With over 10 million records sold worldwide and numerous hit songs, the Intruders remain one of the most beloved and enduring bands of the era.

Early Years and Formation

The Intruders were formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the early 1960s by lead singer and songwriter Samuel Barber, along with Bobby Butler, Phil Terry, and Eugene Daughtry. The group began their career singing gospel music and later transitioned to R&B and soul music. The Intruders released their debut album, "Cowboys to Girls," in 1968.

Rise to Fame

The Intruders' rise to fame began in the late 1960s and early 1970s with the release of their hit single "Cowboys to Girls." The song reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helped establish the Intruders as a major force in the music industry. This was followed by a string of hit singles, including "Together," "I'll Always Love My Mama," and "Love Is Like a Baseball Game."

During this period, the Intruders became one of the most popular and successful bands of the 1970s. According to Billboard, between 1968 and 1975, the Intruders had eight top 40 hit singles on the Hot 100 chart. The group's success also helped establish them as one of the leading acts of soul and R&B music.

The Intruders' Sound and Lyrics

The Intruders' sound was heavily influenced by the soul, R&B, and pop music of the 1970s. Their music was characterized by powerful and emotive vocals, tight harmonies, and memorable melodies. The group's lyrics often dealt with themes of love, relationships, and social issues, and their music was often seen as a reflection of the cultural and political climate of the time.

The Intruders were also known for their experimentation with different styles and genres of music. They were one of the first groups to infuse elements of funk and psychedelic rock into their sound, and their music evolved over the years, from their early soul and R&B days to their later funk and disco phase.

The Intruders' Impact on Music and Culture

The Intruders' music and image were hugely influential in shaping the sound and culture of soul and R&B music.