The Isley Brothers
USA, 1954–now
American family group active over six decades, from the gospel-derived 'Shout' and 'Twist and Shout' through 'It's Your Thing' to Ernie Isley's funk-rock guitar on 'That Lady'.
MusicRoots documents 3 artists who influenced The Isley Brothers and 2 artists The Isley Brothers influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.
Who influenced The Isley Brothers?
- Jackie Wilson — 'Shout' grew out of the brothers covering Jackie Wilson's 'Lonely Teardrops' live — Wilson's dynamic gospel-charged delivery was a defining influence.
- Clyde McPhatter — Ronald Isley named Clyde McPhatter among the group's most important influences — the gospel-tenor R&B lead the young Isleys modelled themselves on.
- Sam Cooke — Sam Cooke's gospel-to-pop grace was another of the voices Ronald Isley cited as shaping the group.
Which artists did The Isley Brothers influence?
- Johnny Hates Jazz — The Isley Brothers' soul-funk was among the R&B influences Datchler named behind Johnny Hates Jazz.
- Earth, Wind & Fire — The smooth vocal chops of the Isley Brothers fed the harmony side of EWF's sound.