Living Colour is a groundbreaking rock band that emerged in the late 1980s, known for their innovative blend of rock, funk, punk, jazz, and hip-hop. Hailing from New York City, the group shattered stereotypes in the music industry by showcasing a powerful, genre-defying sound while challenging racial barriers in rock music.
Their bold musicality and thought-provoking lyrics made them a force to be reckoned with, influencing generations of artists and earning them a lasting place in music history.
Formation and Early Days
Living Colour was founded in 1984 by guitarist Vernon Reid, a virtuoso musician known for his eclectic style and membership in the avant-garde jazz scene. Born in England and raised in Brooklyn, Reid had a vision for a band that could transcend musical and cultural boundaries.
The initial lineup of Living Colour came together in New York City, where Reid recruited drummer Will Calhoun, bassist Muzz Skillings, and vocalist Corey Glover. Each member brought unique talents to the group:
Vernon Reid: A guitar pioneer who seamlessly blended jazz, funk, and metal.
Corey Glover: A powerful vocalist with a background in soul and theater.
Muzz Skillings: A bassist with a groove-oriented approach.
Will Calhoun: A drummer known for his technical skill and versatility.
The band started performing in New York clubs, earning a reputation for their high-energy live shows and diverse sound. Reid’s connection to the cultural collective Black Rock Coalition, which he co-founded, also helped the band gain attention as part of a movement to challenge the underrepresentation of Black musicians in rock.
Breakthrough with Vivid (1988)
Living Colour’s big break came when Mick Jagger of The Rolling Stones saw them perform and became a vocal supporter, producing their demo and helping them secure a deal with Epic Records. In 1988, the band released their debut album, Vivid, which became a commercial and critical success.
Key tracks from Vivid included:
"Cult of Personality": The band’s signature song, a hard-hitting critique of political hero worship. Its unforgettable riff and Corey Glover’s dynamic vocals helped the track win a Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance.
"Open Letter (To a Landlord)": A socially conscious ballad addressing gentrification and urban struggles.
"Glamour Boys": A funky, satirical take on materialism and superficiality.
Vivid climbed to #6 on the Billboard 200, driven by the success of "Cult of Personality" and the band’s electrifying live performances, including their appearances on MTV and as part of the Monsters of Rock tour.
Musical Evolution and Social Commentary
Living Colour followed Vivid with Time’s Up (1990), a more experimental album that expanded their sound while doubling down on their socially conscious themes. The record tackled issues such as environmentalism, racism, and personal identity. Highlights included:
"Type": A commentary on societal labels and conformity.
"Elvis Is Dead": A critique of American idol worship and cultural appropriation.
"Love Rears Its Ugly Head": A soulful exploration of love and vulnerability.
Time’s Up earned Living Colour their second Grammy and further cemented their reputation as a band willing to tackle difficult subjects through their music.
Changes and Challenges
In 1992, Living Colour released their third album, Stain, which featured a darker, heavier sound. By this time, bassist Muzz Skillings had been replaced by Doug Wimbish, a seasoned musician who brought new influences to the band. While critically acclaimed, Stain didn’t achieve the same commercial success as their earlier albums, reflecting a shift in the music industry toward grunge and alternative rock.
Despite their creative output, the band faced challenges, including the racial prejudices of the rock industry. As a group of Black musicians in a genre often perceived as predominantly white, Living Colour had to navigate stereotypes and skepticism while staying true to their artistic vision.
In 1995, Living Colour disbanded, with members pursuing individual projects. Vernon Reid released solo work and collaborated with other artists, while Corey Glover explored acting and solo music.
Reunion and Revival
Living Colour reunited in 2000, reigniting their chemistry and passion for music. They began touring again and released Collideøscope in 2003, an album reflecting on contemporary issues such as 9/11 and the Iraq War. The record marked a return to their politically charged roots and experimental sound.
In 2009, the band released The Chair in the Doorway, which received critical praise for its introspective themes and genre-blurring tracks. Living Colour continued to evolve, blending elements of heavy metal, funk, and blues.
Their most recent album, Shade (2017), paid homage to their influences, including blues legends like Robert Johnson, while addressing modern issues like police brutality and systemic racism.
Legacy and Influence
Living Colour’s impact on music and culture is immense:
Pioneers of Diversity in Rock: The band challenged racial stereotypes in rock, proving that Black musicians could thrive in the genre while staying authentic to their roots.
Musical Innovation: Their ability to seamlessly blend genres inspired countless artists, from Rage Against the Machine to Lenny Kravitz.
Socially Conscious Art: Living Colour’s lyrics often addressed issues of race, politics, and identity, making their music both thought-provoking and relevant.
Their influence extends far beyond their discography, with their groundbreaking approach continuing to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
Living Colour Today
Living Colour remains active, performing around the world and contributing to important cultural conversations. Their music stands as a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of rock.
Living Colour: Band Dynamics and Chemistry
Living Colour's success and enduring legacy stem from the unique chemistry and complementary talents of its members. Each brought a distinct voice and style to the band, creating a dynamic interplay that shaped their sound and made them pioneers in blending genres like rock, funk, jazz, and metal. Below is a deeper dive into the band’s dynamics, their collaborative process, and the challenges they faced.
The Members and Their Roles
Vernon Reid (Guitar, Founder):
As the creative visionary behind Living Colour, Vernon Reid’s innovative guitar work was the backbone of the band’s sound.
Influenced by avant-garde jazz, funk, and hard rock, Reid combined technical virtuosity with a unique ability to craft memorable riffs and solos.
His role extended beyond music—he often acted as the band’s spokesperson, particularly on matters of race and identity in the music industry.
Reid’s leadership and commitment to breaking barriers set the tone for Living Colour’s trailblazing ethos.
Corey Glover (Vocals):
Glover’s powerful voice, capable of moving between soulful croons and rock belting, gave Living Colour their distinct sound.
His background in theater added a dramatic flair to his performances, making him a captivating frontman.
Glover often served as the emotional core of the band, bringing vulnerability and raw intensity to their songs.
Muzz Skillings (Bass, 1984–1992):
Skillings’ groove-heavy bass lines were essential to Living Colour’s early sound, providing a rhythmic foundation that balanced Reid’s experimental guitar work.
His departure in 1992 marked a shift in the band’s dynamics, with the introduction of a new bassist bringing a different flavor to their music.
Doug Wimbish (Bass, 1992–Present):
A seasoned musician known for his work with Sugar Hill Records and Tackhead, Wimbish brought a more experimental approach to the band’s rhythm section.
His use of effects and looping expanded Living Colour’s sonic palette, adding layers of texture and complexity to their music.
Will Calhoun (Drums):
Calhoun’s drumming was a cornerstone of Living Colour’s sound, combining precision with versatility.
His background in jazz and world music allowed him to seamlessly transition between complex polyrhythms, hard-hitting rock beats, and funk grooves.
As the rhythmic anchor, Calhoun played a key role in maintaining the band’s cohesive sound, even as they ventured into new musical territories.
Collaborative Process
Living Colour’s music was deeply collaborative, with each member contributing to the songwriting and arranging process. The interplay between Reid’s guitar riffs, Glover’s emotive vocals, Calhoun’s dynamic drumming, and the evolving bass styles created a sound that was greater than the sum of its parts.
Genre Blending: Each member’s diverse influences—ranging from metal and punk to jazz and hip-hop—helped the band craft a sound that defied categorization. This willingness to experiment was a hallmark of their creative process.
Socially Conscious Themes: The band often worked together to craft lyrics that addressed issues like racism, identity, and social justice. Reid and Glover were particularly vocal in shaping the band’s message, ensuring their music carried both personal and political weight.
Live Performances: Living Colour’s live shows were an extension of their collaborative energy, with each member showcasing their technical prowess while maintaining a unified stage presence.
Challenges and Growth
While Living Colour’s chemistry fueled their creativity, they also faced challenges that tested their unity:
Breaking Racial Stereotypes in Rock:
As one of the few all-Black rock bands in a genre dominated by white artists, Living Colour often had to navigate industry biases and preconceived notions.
They leaned on their shared vision and solidarity to overcome these barriers, using their platform to challenge stereotypes and amplify underrepresented voices.
Lineup Changes:
The departure of bassist Muzz Skillings in 1992 marked a turning point for the band. While Doug Wimbish brought new energy and ideas, the transition required the group to adapt to a slightly different dynamic.
Despite the change, the band maintained its core identity, with Wimbish’s experimental style complementing Reid’s adventurous guitar work.
Hiatus and Reformation:
The band’s initial breakup in 1995 was due to creative differences and the pressures of the music industry. This period allowed members to explore solo projects and other collaborations.
When they reunited in 2000, they brought a renewed sense of purpose, with a deeper appreciation for their chemistry and collective voice.
Unity Through Diversity
Living Colour’s ability to thrive as a band was rooted in their respect for each other’s talents and perspectives. While their individual styles and influences varied widely, their shared commitment to innovation and authenticity united them.
Respect and Open Communication: Reid often credited the band’s longevity to their ability to listen to each other, both musically and personally.
Adaptability: Even as musical trends shifted, Living Colour embraced change, incorporating new elements into their sound while staying true to their roots.
Legacy of Band Dynamics
Living Colour’s chemistry and collaborative spirit have made them a model for other bands navigating creative diversity. Their success demonstrated the power of embracing individuality within a group context, proving that differences can fuel innovation rather than division.
LIVING COLOR CHANGED THE FACE OF ROCK & ROLL FOR THE BETTER! I SAW THEM AT A TAILGATE PARTY, I THINK OF THE SUPERBOWL XXXII