Change

Change continues to be an active force in music, with its latest lineup coming together in 2018. The group is celebrated for its unique post-disco and funky sound, a style that distinguished them from many contemporaries and continues to resonate with fans. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to blend sophisticated production with irresistible dance rhythms, a hallmark established in their early years under the guidance of producers Jacques Fred Petrus and Mauro Malavasi.

Known for their work with Atlantic Records and Atco Records, Change's music often evokes the vibrant atmosphere of the late 1970s and early 1980s disco and funk scenes. The group's current activities build upon this rich foundation, ensuring their place in the history of dance music. [edit]

The story of Change began in 1979 in Bologna, Italy, a project spearheaded by businessman and executive producer Jacques Fred Petrus. He teamed up with Mauro Malavasi, a producer and musician, to create a musical entity that would capture the essence of the burgeoning post-disco sound. Drawing significant inspiration from the iconic American disco band Chic, Petrus and Malavasi aimed to fuse the polished, rhythmic sophistication of Chic with a fresh, European sensibility.

Their vision was to create music that was both danceable and musically rich, employing talented session musicians and vocalists to achieve a polished, often lush, sound. The early years saw the group develop its distinctive style, laying the groundwork for a series of successful releases that would define a specific era of dance music. This collaboration between Petrus and Malavasi established the creative and business framework for Change, setting them on a path to international recognition. [edit]

Change's musical style is deeply rooted in post-disco, characterized by its smooth, sophisticated arrangements and infectious rhythms. They expertly blended the driving basslines and intricate guitar work reminiscent of Chic with lush string arrangements and soulful vocal performances. Their sound often incorporated elements of funk, R&B, and early electronic dance music, creating a unique sonic tapestry that was both dancefloor-ready and musically engaging.

Lyrically, their songs often explored themes of love, relationships, and the joy of dancing, delivered with a polished and accessible vocal delivery. The production quality was always high, reflecting the meticulous work of producers like Jacques Fred Petrus and Mauro Malavasi, who ensured that each track had a rich, layered sound that stood out in the competitive music landscape of the late 1970s and early 1980s. [edit]

Change made a notable impact on the post-disco and funk scenes of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their polished sound and sophisticated arrangements offered a refined alternative within the dance music spectrum, influencing subsequent artists who sought to blend disco's energy with funk's deeper grooves and R&B's vocal stylings.

The group's success, particularly with hits like Searching, demonstrated the international appeal of well-crafted dance music. They helped pave the way for other European acts to gain traction in the global music market, showcasing a high level of musicality and production that could rival their American counterparts. Their music remains a staple in clubs and playlists for fans of classic disco and funk. [edit]

While Change may not have a formally designated fandom name in the way many contemporary pop groups do, they have cultivated a dedicated following among enthusiasts of disco, funk, and post-disco music. This core group of fans appreciates the band's sophisticated sound, memorable melodies, and the high-quality production that defined their work.

Fan appreciation often manifests through active engagement on music forums, dedicated playlists on streaming services, and requests for their music at retro-themed club nights. The enduring popularity of tracks like Searching and The Glow of Love keeps the spirit of Change alive, connecting generations of music lovers through shared enjoyment of their classic dance anthems. [edit]

Chic Influence: The band's sound was heavily inspired by the American disco group Chic, particularly in their rhythmic structures and sophisticated arrangements., Producers: Change was founded by businessman and producer Jacques Fred Petrus and producer Mauro Malavasi, who were instrumental in shaping the group's distinctive sound., International Appeal: Despite its Italian origins and American-influenced sound, Change achieved significant success internationally, particularly in the United States and Europe., Vocalists: The group often featured a rotating cast of talented vocalists, contributing to the rich and varied sound across their albums.[edit]