The Gap Band, consisting of brothers Charlie, Ronnie, and Robert Wilson, emerged from obscurity to become one of the most beloved funk groups of the late ’70s and 1980s. Hailing from Tulsa, Oklahoma, the trio delivered 15 Top Ten R&B singles, featuring a mix of vibrant funk anthems and soulful slow jams. Iconic tracks like “Burn Rubber (Why You Wanna Hurt Me)” and “You Dropped a Bomb on Me” showcased unforgettable synthesizer basslines, complemented by Charlie’s powerful lead vocals, establishing the group’s signature sound. The Gap Band’s reign of chart-topping hits extended over two decades, from 1977 to 1995.
Raised in Tulsa, the Wilson brothers’ musical journey began in their father’s church, where music was a mandatory part of their upbringing. Learning various instruments, especially the piano, became their foundation. Despite initial reluctance, the musical training proved invaluable, propelling them into the world of music. Ronnie, the eldest, founded his band at 14, with Charlie joining shortly after. The pivotal moment came when Ronnie invited Charlie to his band, marking the start of their musical collaboration. Forming the Gap Band with their younger brother Robert, the trio embarked on a musical odyssey that would span decades, starting from humble performances in Tulsa to national fame.