Album Information:

About Rare Earth:

Rare Earth is an American rock band originally from Detroit, Michigan. The band was formed in 1960 by saxophonist Gil Bridges and drummer Pete Rivera, who were looking to create a soulful and funky sound. They recruited guitarist Rod Richards, keyboardist Kenny James, and bassist John Persh to round out the lineup.

The early years of Rare Earth were spent playing in local clubs around Detroit and gradually building a following. In 1968, they signed with the new label Motown Records and began recording their debut album, 'Get Ready.' The album featured covers of songs by The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and Smokey Robinson, as well as original compositions by the band.

'Get Ready' was released in 1969 and became a smash hit, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard charts. The title track, a cover of a song by The Temptations, became Rare Earth's signature song and has since been covered by numerous artists. The album also featured a 21-minute long version of the song 'In Concert,' which became one of their most popular tracks.

Rare Earth continued to release albums throughout the 1970s, including 'Ecology' (1970), 'One World' (1971), and 'Ma' (1973). Their sound evolved over time to incorporate elements of funk, jazz, and psychedelic rock. They also became known for their energetic live performances, which often featured extended jam sessions.

In the late 1970s, Rare Earth left Motown Records and signed with Prodigal Records. Their later albums didn't achieve the same level of commercial success as their early releases, but the band continued to tour and record new music. They also saw enduring popularity through their songs being used in films, TV shows, and commercials.

Today, Rare Earth is an enduring presence in the world of classic rock. Their unique sound and energetic live performances have influenced countless musicians over the years. The band has undergone numerous lineup changes over the years, but remains active and continues to tour regularly.

About the album Get Ready:

Get Ready is a studio album by the American rock band Rare Earth, released in 1969. The album features a unique blend of rock, funk, and soul and is considered one of the pioneering works in the subgenre of psychedelic soul.

The album opens with the signature track, 'Magic Key,' a high-energy rock and roll number with a pulsing bassline, searing guitar solos, and catchy vocal hooks. The song sets the mood for the rest of the album with its infectious energy and funky groove.

The next track, 'Uncle Willie,' is a tribute to the band's manager and showcases the band's soulful vocal harmonies and tight instrumentals. The song features a horn section that adds a touch of jazz to the mix, reminiscent of the sound popularized by Motown Records in the 1960s.

The title track, 'Get Ready,' is a cover of The Temptations' hit song and is one of the band's most popular songs. Rare Earth's version of the song features a long instrumental introduction with a killer organ solo before launching into the lyrics. The band adds their own touch of funk to the song, giving it a unique sound that still resonates with audiences today.

Other highlights on the album include 'Tobacco Road,' a cover of the classic rock song, which features a driving rhythm section and soulful guitar work. 'Here Comes the Night' is a slow-burning ballad that showcases the band's ability to create a haunting atmosphere with their music.

Overall, Get Ready is a timeless album that captures the energy and spirit of the late 1960s with its blend of rock and soul influences. Rare Earth's unique sound and infectious grooves have made this album a favorite of music fans around the world.

Members:

Rare Earth is a classic rock band that formed in Detroit, Michigan in 1960. The band is known for their mix of rock, soul, and funk music. Here are the key members of Rare Earth along with their biographies:

1. Peter Hoorelbeke (drums, vocals): Peter Hoorelbeke was born on August 6, 1946 in Detroit, Michigan. He co-founded Rare Earth in 1960 and was the band's lead vocalist and drummer. He also played the trombone on some of the band's songs.

2. Gil Bridges (saxophone, flute, vocals): Gil Bridges was born on October 5, 1943 in Flint, Michigan. He co-founded Rare Earth in 1960 and was the band's saxophonist and flutist. He also provided backing vocals.

3. Kenny James (keyboards): Kenny James was born on February 17, 1947 in Detroit, Michigan. He joined Rare Earth in 1970 as the band's keyboardist.

4. John Persh (guitar): John Persh was born on November 22, 1947 in Detroit, Michigan. He joined Rare Earth in 1970 as the band's lead guitarist.

5. Mike Urso (bass): Mike Urso was born on October 4, 1948 in Oak Park, Illinois. He joined Rare Earth in 1969 as the band's bassist. He left the band in 1972 and returned in 1986.

6. Mark Olson (keyboards): Mark Olson was born on September 18, 1945 in Toledo, Ohio. He joined Rare Earth in 1972 as the band's keyboardist. He left the band in 1976 and returned in 1986.

7. Ray Monette (guitar): Ray Monette was born on June 28, 1946 in Detroit, Michigan. He joined Rare Earth in 1971 as the band's rhythm guitarist. He left the band in 1974 and returned in 1986.

It's worth noting that Rare Earth has had several other members throughout their career, but the above list includes the key members that are most closely associated with the band's classic lineup and biggest hits.

Track List for Get Ready:

1. 'Magic Key' - 4:06
The opening track of the album starts with a groovy bassline and features funky guitar licks. The vocals are smooth and soulful, with a catchy chorus that will have you singing along in no time.

2. 'Keepin' Me Out of the Storm' - 3:27
This track has a slower tempo and is more mellow in comparison to the first. It features subtle guitar and keyboard melodies that add a calming effect to the song. The vocals are soft and melancholic, making it a good track to listen to on rainy days.

3. 'I Couldn't Believe What Happened Last Night' - 10:54
The longest track on the album, 'I Couldn't Believe What Happened Last Night' starts off with a slow, bluesy feel before building up to an explosive instrumental section consisting of guitar and organ solos. The song then returns to its original groove, with the vocals adding a sense of poignancy.

4. 'Oh Lord, Why Lord/ Eleanor Rigby' - 6:32
A medley of two songs, 'Oh Lord, Why Lord' and 'Eleanor Rigby', this track is a wonderful mix of the soulful and the psychedelic. The vocals in 'Oh Lord, Why Lord' are backed by a gospel choir, while 'Eleanor Rigby' has a haunting string arrangement.

5. 'Let's Get It On' - 4:54
Titled after the Marvin Gaye classic, 'Let's Get It On' has a similar vibe with its romantic lyrics and smooth instrumentation. The saxophone solo towards the end of the song is particularly noteworthy.

6. 'What'd I Say' - 6:40
The album's penultimate track is a cover of Ray Charles' classic, 'What'd I Say'. Rare Earth adds their own touch to the song with some funky guitar riffs and a groovy bassline.

7. '(I Know) I'm Losing You' - 10:51
Closing off the album is Rare Earth's take on the Temptations' hit single, '(I Know) I'm Losing You'. This version is considerably longer, with extended instrumental sections featuring an organ solo and a drum solo. The vocals are powerful and emotive, bringing the album to a satisfying close.

Discography for Rare Earth:

Rare Earth is an American rock band that emerged in the late 1960s and became famous for their unique blend of rock, funk, and soul. Over their career, they released 12 studio albums, four live albums, and numerous singles. Here is their complete discography in chronological order:

Albums:
1. Get Ready (1969)
2. Ecology (1970)
3. One World (1971)
4. Willie Remembers (1972)
5. Ma (1973)
6. Back to Earth (1975)
7. Midnight Lady (1976)
8. Band Together (1978)
9. Grand Slam (1978)
10. Tight and Hot (1982)
11. Different World (1993)
12. Generation (2004)

Live Albums:
1. Rare Earth in Concert (1971)
2. Live in Chicago (1974)
3. Rare Earth Live! (1974)
4. Live at the Paramount (1977)

Singles:
1. '(I Know) I'm Losing You' (1969)
2. 'Get Ready' (1970)
3. 'Born to Wander' (1970)
4. 'I Just Want to Celebrate' (1971)
5. 'Hey Big Brother' (1971)
6. 'Satisfy My Soul' (1972)
7. 'Good Time Sally' (1972)
8. 'We're Gonna Have a Good Time' (1972)
9. 'Hum Along and Dance' (1973)
10. 'Smiling Faces Sometimes' (1973)
11. 'Big John is My Name' (1973)
12. 'Midnight Lady' (1976)
13. 'Warm Ride' (1978)

Other Releases:
1. 'Get Ready' (extended version) (1970)
2. 'Ma' (extended version) (1973)
3. 'I Just Want to Celebrate' (extended version) (1973)