Randolph Brothers Plus (Musical Group)
Dates
- Existence: c. 1975
Historical note
The Randolph Family of Roanoke, Virginia, had three family music groups in the 1960s and 1970s. Their bands operated somewhat interchangeably and they were well-known regionally for blues music. Their most well known songs were “Happy Fool” (as Belva & The Randolph Brothers) and “What It Is Part I / What It Is Part II” as The Randolph Bros. Plus.
The Randolph Brothers was active from 1968 through at least 1972 and included brothers Alfred (Saxophone + Manager), Michael (Guitar), Reginald (Saxophone, Co-Manager, Vocals), Marvin (Bass Guitar), Rodney (Drums). At some point, a sixth brother (either Phillip or Clinton) joined the band on the keyboard. No source confirming which brother has been found.
Belva and The Randolph Brothers was active from around 1971 through at least 1974. This group featured Belva as the lead vocalist with Alfred, Michael, Reginald, Marvin, and Rodney in the band. It also included backup vocals by their sister Valerie and cousin Brenda Bryant.
The Randolph Bros. Plus Lounge Combo was created around 1975 as an additional band focused on the cocktail lounge circuit.
The Randolph Brothers had contracts with Star City Records, HIT Attractions Inc., and an association with WTOY, Roanoke, Virginia’s Soul station. They also applied for a copyright on their song “What It Is” under the name Hot Tomato Publishing Company.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
Randolph Family (Musical Groups) Collection
This collection contains photographs, papers, and artifacts related to the musical groups of the Randolph family of Roanoke, Virginia. The photographs feature publicity photos of the family bands and an album with private family photos. The papers include business cards, band contracts, programs and promotional posters, a newspaper article, a calendar of show dates, and copyright paperwork for the song “What it is”. Also included is Alfred’s stage costume with multiple bow tie options.