When Rock Met Motown
Blending psychedelic rock with soul,
they redefined the Motown sound.
Rare Earth was an American rock band formed in 1968 in Detroit, Michigan, known for their fusion of rock, soul, and R&B.
They were the first successful white band signed to Motown, releasing music under the label’s Rare Earth Records subsidiary. The group gained popularity with hits like Get Ready (a 21-minute jam version of The Temptations' song), I Just Want to Celebrate, and Born to Wander.
Their sound featured a gritty, soulful energy with prominent percussion, strong vocals, and extended instrumental sections. Rare Earth's success peaked in the early 1970s, and though they experienced lineup changes and declining mainstream popularity in later years, they remained a respected act in classic rock and Motown history.
Listen to the Best of Rare Earth free and uninterrupted use ☰ to select/change track
Rare Earth had several lineup changes over the years, but their classic lineup from their peak in the early 1970s included:
Peter Rivera (a.k.a. Peter Hoorelbeke) – Lead vocals, drums
Gil Bridges – Saxophone, flute, vocals, percussion
John Persh (a.k.a. John Parrish) – Bass, trombone, vocals
Ray Monette – Guitar, vocals
Mark Olson – Keyboards, vocals
Edward "Eddie" Guzman – Percussion
Earlier members included guitarist Rod Richards and keyboardist Kenny James, who played on their early recordings before being replaced. Over time, many new musicians joined and left the band, with only Gil Bridges remaining a constant member until his passing in 2021.