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Manfred Mann

From HitStory, the pop encyclopedia of School of Rock · Artist

Manfred Mann was a British band that began in London in 1962 and was named after the keyboardist Manfred Mann. The group began as the Mann-Hugg Blues Brothers, with Mann and drummer Mike Hugg, who both came from jazz and knew the London blues wave. By 1963 the line-up was settled, with Mike Vickers, bassist Dave Richmond and the singer and harmonica player Paul Jones. From 1963 the group recorded for His Master's Voice. The first singles did not reach the charts.

Music and breakthrough

The breakthrough came in 1964 with 5-4-3-2-1, the theme tune of the television programme Ready Steady Go!. That same year the band had a number one in England and the United States with Do Wah Diddy Diddy. Pretty Flamingo in 1966 and Mighty Quinn in 1968 again reached number one in England. Paul Jones sang until 1966, then Mike d'Abo. Other members were Tom McGuinness, Jack Bruce and Klaus Voormann. Albums such as The Five Faces of Manfred Mann and Mann Made from 1964 and 1965 show the group in its rhythm and blues period. In 1969 the band broke up. Mann then formed Manfred Mann Chapter Three and in 1971 Manfred Mann's Earth Band.

Influence

The group mixed jazz technique with pop, with solos on woodwinds, vibraphone and harmonica. In this way Manfred Mann was an important name in Swinging London.

Listening

Listening tip. Listen to Do Wah Diddy Diddy and notice Paul Jones's singing, the rhythm and the way the band keeps a simple song tight and playful.

Discography

Studio albums

Categories: Artists