Band Profile
Who we are
RARE GEMS ODYSSEY / RARE GEMS
Formed in 1969 in Los Angeles, California
Rare Gems Odyssey started out as Black Gems Rare, a local band doing shows in clubs in and around LA. They soon got the attention of local producer Anthony Renfro, who took them in the studio and released a single titled, Touch Down.
In 1976 Rare Gems Odyssey signed with Casablanca Records and Film Works releasing their first album, Rare Gems Odyssey. The LP generated radio air play and records sales across the country. Their single, “What is Funk” made number one in 57 cities and number two across the country, second only to “Brick House” by The Commodores. The band toured as opening act to 70’s concerts including, Ray Charles and KC and The Sunshine Band.
After the death of Neil Bogart, former owner and CEO of Casablanca Records and Film Works, Rare Gems Odyssey changed its label to California Gold Records out of Los Angeles, and its name to Rare Gems. The group’s second LP released in 1979, titled, Million Dollar Disco.
The Band
Jimmy Gough Lead Guitar and Lead Vocals
Tony Coleman Congas and Vocals
Darryl Coleman Bass Guitar and Bass Vocals
and three new members
Sheree Dunn Lead Vocals
Mykale Thomas Drums and Vocals
Carl Johnson Keyboards and Vocals
Charles Givings,Debra Givings Lee,and Johnny Ross passed away in 2005 and 2013
We wish Sandy Givings our best in her life
RARE GEMS ODYSSEY / RARE GEMS
Formed in 1969 in Los Angeles, California
Rare Gems Odyssey started out as Black Gems Rare, a local band doing shows in clubs in and around LA. They soon got the attention of local producer Anthony Renfro, who took them in the studio and released a single titled, Touch Down.
In 1976 Rare Gems Odyssey signed with Casablanca Records and Film Works releasing their first album, Rare Gems Odyssey. The LP generated radio air play and records sales across the country. Their single, “What is Funk” made number one in 57 cities and number two across the country, second only to “Brick House” by The Commodores. The band toured as opening act to 70’s concerts including, Ray Charles and KC and The Sunshine Band.
After the death of Neil Bogart, former owner and CEO of Casablanca Records and Film Works, Rare Gems Odyssey changed its label to California Gold Records out of Los Angeles, and its name to Rare Gems. The group’s second LP released in 1979, titled, Million Dollar Disco.
The Band
Jimmy Gough Lead Guitar and Lead Vocals
Tony Coleman Congas and Vocals
Darryl Coleman Bass Guitar and Bass Vocals
and three new members
Sheree Dunn Lead Vocals
Mykale Thomas Drums and Vocals
Carl Johnson Keyboards and Vocals
Charles Givings,Debra Givings Lee,and Johnny Ross passed away in 2005 and 2013
We wish Sandy Givings our best in her life