Spencer Davis — a native of Wales — formed the band in Birmingham, England, in 1963. Winwood joined as guitarist, pianist, organist and vocalist. Brother Muff was on bass and Pete York was the drummer. The group — originally called the Rhythm and Blues Quartette — was signed and produced by Island Records’ Chris Blackwell, who later became an important figure in the career of Bob Marley and, in general, the popularization of reggae.
The band’s hits were “Keep On Running,” “Gimme Some Loving” and “I’m a Man.” The Allman Brothers had a lot of success with a cover of “Don’t Want You Know More” and the Grateful Dead performed the band’s material.
Like many bands of that era, The Spencer Davis Group has resurfaced in various forms throughout the years. Wikipedia says that in 2010 — and presumably after — different versions of group tour in the U.S and Europe. Davis is the only person in both versions. He has worked as a record executive over the years.
Above is “Gimme Some Lovin’.” The vocal almost certainly is not the original — it may even be the track from the album — but the video is so interesting that I decided to use it anyway. It seems to have been shot in a department store. Below is “Somebody Help Me,” preceded by an interview in German with Davis.
Wikipedia and The Spencer Davis Group website were used to write this post.
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