On this day in music history: December 4, 1971 - Family Affair by Sly & The Family Stone hits #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 3 weeks, also topping the R&B singles chart for 5 weeks on the same date. Written and produced by Sly Stone, it is the third and final chart topping single for the San Francisco, CA based R&B/Funk band. Recorded at a time of much turmoil and upheaval in the once harmonious band, Family Affair will express the ups and downs that one often has with their family. The breakdown of relationships within the band brought on clashing egos, money, drug abuse, and pressure to maintain their success will exact a heavy toll on all concerned. It will take Sly nearly a year and a half to complete Theres A Riot Goin On, working mostly on his own, with an ever rotating cast of musician friends as well as some contributions from the other band members. On Family Affair, Sly and his sister Rosie are the only members of the band to appear on the single. Billy Preston (keyboards) and Bobby Womack (guitar) provide additional instrumental support. Family Affair (like much of the album) utilizes the Maestro Rhythm King, one of the earliest drum machines to come on the market. The single will be an immediate smash upon its release. Entering the Hot 100 at #50 on November 6, 1971, it will leap to the top of the chart just four weeks later. Family Affair is certified Gold in the US by the RIAA.
Posted on: Fri, 05 Dec 2014 02:00:09 +0000
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