Average White Band (AWB), hailing from Scotland, emerged in the early 1970s as a formidable force in funk and R&B. Their 1974 instrumental hit "Pick Up the Pieces" soared to No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, cementing their place in music history. Influenced by legends like Marvin Gaye and James Brown, AWB's authentic sound resonated with audiences worldwide. Their albums, including the platinum-certified "Soul Searching," showcase a blend of soulful melodies and tight rhythms. Beyond their own success, AWB's grooves have been widely sampled by artists such as the Beastie Boys and A Tribe Called Quest, underscoring their enduring impact on contemporary music. ([averagewhiteband.com](https://www.averagewhiteband.com/bio?utm_source=openai))