American funk-rock band formed in Mingo Junction, Ohio in 1970. Long-running lineup centered on Robert Parissi (vocals). Distinguished by their one-hit-wonder commercial peak with "Play That Funky Music" (1976), a #1 Billboard Hot 100 hit reportedly inspired by a Black audience member's heckle at a Wild Cherry show: "Play that funky music, white boy."
Released four studio albums between Wild Cherry (1976) and Only the Wild Survive (1979). Won the 1977 Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus for "Play That Funky Music."
