HEATWAVE

Although based in Britain, Heatwave was formed by the Wilder brothers, Johnnie and Keith, on their discharge from the US Army. An advertisement in a music paper yielded Hull, England-born songwriter Rod Temperton, while further members recruited were two more Americans, Eric Johns and Jessie Whitten, a Czech, Ernest Berger, and a Spaniard, Mario Mantese. Between 1977 and 1981 the group enjoyed a series of hit singles in both the UK and USA, including “Boogie Nights”, “Always And Forever” and “Mind Blowing Decisions”. Despite maintaining some links, Temperton officially left the band in 1977 to forge an impressive songwriting career. His compositions have been recorded by George Benson, Herbie Hancock and Michael Jackson, and included the title song to the multi-million selling album Thriller. Heatwave's own progress was marred by a series of tragedies. Whitten was stabbed to death, Mantese left the group following a severe car crash, while Johnnie Wilder was paralyzed from the neck down as a result of a further road accident. Johnnie Wilder courageously remained at the group's helm, producing their work and singing in the studio, while another vocalist, J.D. Nicholas, took his place onstage. However, Heatwave were unable to withstand these traumas and in 1984 Nicholas opted to join the Commodores.

Discography: Too Hot To Handle (Epic 1977)****, Central Heating (Epic 1978)***, Hot Property (Epic 1979)**, Candles (Epic 1980)***, Current (Epic 1982)**.

Compilations:</strong><br> Best Of (Epic 1993)****.