Cymande

• Genre: Funk

About

Cymande didn't make big waves during their short run in the early 1970s -- the best position they achieved on American RnB charts was a tepid No. 22 in 1972 -- but the years since have been a different story. Their visionary, funky rock fusions were just obscure enough to be mined for samples by a host of modern hit makers including De La Soul and the Fugees. The original nine-man lineup was an international set that included vocalist Ray King and bassist Steve Scipio; their blend of soul, Afropop and reggae received its greatest fame a quarter-century after the group's demise.

- Nate Cavalieri