Ep 9. The Sylvers
- August 1, 2011
The Sylvers were a family band who achieved great success in the 1970s with their unique blend of funk, soul, and disco. In this episode of UnSung, we take a deeper dive into their rise to fame, the challenges they faced, and what ultimately led to their fall from the spotlight.
From a young age, the Sylvers siblings were musical prodigies, and their talent quickly caught the attention of music executives. However, the road to success was not an easy one for the family, who faced discrimination as African American artists in the predominantly white music industry. Despite this, their music resonated with audiences and they eventually landed a record deal with MGM.
The Sylvers' debut album was a hit, and their funky, upbeat sound quickly captured the hearts of fans around the country. Their hit single, "Boogie Fever," became an instant classic and cemented their place in music history. However, the pressures of fame began to take a toll on the family, and tensions within the group began to rise.
As their success continued, the Sylvers faced a string of setbacks, including financial difficulties and conflicts with their record label. Despite these challenges, they persevered and continued to produce chart-topping hits.
In this episode, we hear from the members of the Sylvers family as they reflect on their journey and the impact their music had on the industry. We also hear from industry insiders and collaborators, who share behind-the-scenes stories and shed light on the Sylvers' impact on the music industry.
Through interviews, rare footage, and archival performances, we learn about the highs and lows of the Sylvers' career and the legacy they left behind. From their early days as a family band to their rise to fame and eventual decline, The Sylvers episode of UnSung takes us on a journey through the history of this iconic group.