Heatwave, formed in 1975, quickly rose to fame with their unique blend of R&B, funk, and disco. Led by Johnnie Wilder Jr. and Keith Wilder, and fueled by Rod Temperton's songwriting genius, the band released iconic hits like "Boogie Nights” "Always and Forever” and "The Groove Line”. Despite personal and professional challenges, including Johnnie Wilder Jr.'s paralysis and lineup changes, Heatwave's music left a lasting legacy. While they never won a Grammy, their influence on the music industry is undeniable, with Temperton's post-Heatwave success further cementing their place in music history. Heatwave's story is one of triumph, tragedy, and enduring musical impact.
Heatwave Career Highlights
1975 Heatwave was formed in Germany by American servicemen Johnnie Wilder Jr. and Keith Wilder, along with keyboardist Rod Temperton.
1976 Released their debut single "Boogie Nights” which became a huge hit.
1977 Released their debut album "Too Hot to Handle” featuring the hit singles "Boogie Nights" and "Always and Forever."
1978 Released "Central Heating” which included hits like "The Groove Line" and "Mind Blowing Decisions."
1980 Released "Hot Property” featuring the single "Eyeballin'. By now they were so big that they had Earth Wind and Fire as a support act!
1981 Keyboardist and primary songwriter Rod Temperton left the band to focus on a songwriting and production career.
1982 Released "Current” which included the hit "Lettin' It Loose."
1988 The band went on hiatus after struggling with lineup changes and personal challenges.
1990s Heatwave reunited and continued to perform live, though they did not release new material.
Heatwave Members
- Johnnie Wilder Jr.: Lead vocals (1975–1988, 1990s–2006)
- Keith Wilder: Lead vocals (1975–1988, 1990s–2017)
- Rod Temperton: Keyboards, primary songwriter (1975–1981)
- Roy Carter: Guitar (1978–1983)
- Mario Mantese: Bass guitar (1975–1978)
- William L. Jones: Bass guitar (1978–1982)
- Ernest "Bilbo" Berger: Drums (1975–1979)
- Calvin Duke: Keyboards (1982–1988)
- J.D. Nicholas: Vocals, keyboards (1982–1985)
Heatwave Grammy Awards
Despite their success and influence, Heatwave did not win any Grammy Awards (a disgrace). However, they received critical acclaim and their music has left a lasting impact on the R&B and disco genres.
3 Most Famous Heatwave Songs
1. "Boogie Nights" (1976)
- Their breakout hit, "Boogie Nights” is a quintessential disco anthem that topped charts worldwide.
2. "Always and Forever" (1977)
- A timeless ballad from their debut album, "Always and Forever" has become a classic, often played at weddings and romantic events.
3. "The Groove Line" (1978)
- Another disco hit from their second album "Central Heating” "The Groove Line" showcased their funky and danceable style.
Heatwave Quotes
Johnnie Wilder Jr.
Music has no boundaries. It brings people together, and that’s what Heatwave was all about.
Heatwave Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Tragic Accident: In 1979, Johnnie Wilder Jr. was involved in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Despite this, he continued to perform and record with Heatwave.
- Rod Temperton's Success: After leaving Heatwave, Rod Temperton became a renowned songwriter, penning hits for Michael Jackson, including "Thriller” "Off the Wall” and "Rock with You."
- Keith Wilder's Death: Keith Wilder passed away in 2017, marking the end of an era for Heatwave.
Heatwave ratings
