Ninety-Nine and a Half - The Trammps
"Ninety-Nine and a Half" is a classic soul and funk track by the American group The Trammps. The song was released in 1972 as a part of their debut album, "The Legendary Zing Album". The theme of the song revolves around the concept of giving your all in a relationship, but still falling short of complete satisfaction. The lyrics talk about the singer's efforts to please their partner and give their all, but realizing that it's not enough to keep them satisfied. The composition of the song features a tight rhythm section, groovy bassline, and powerful horn arrangements that are characteristic of The Trammps' signature sound. The lead vocals are soulful and emotive, delivering the lyrics with passion and intensity. One notable fact about "Ninety-Nine and a Half" is that it became a hit on the R&B charts, reaching the top 20 in 1972. The song's infectious groove and relatable lyrics resonated with audiences, solidifying The Trammps' reputation as one of the premier soul and funk groups of the era. Overall, "Ninety-Nine and a Half" is a timeless classic that showcases The Trammps' talent for delivering soulful and energetic performances that continue to captivate listeners to this day.
The Trammps
The Trammps were an American disco and soul band formed in Philadelphia in 1972. The group was originally known as The Volcanos, but changed their name to The Trammps after signing with Buddah Records. The band's lineup consisted of lead vocalist Jimmy Ellis, Harold Wade, Stanley Wade, Earl Young, Robert Upchurch, and Ron Kersey. The Trammps achieved commercial success in the mid-1970s with their hit singles "Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart" and "Hold Back the Night." However, their breakthrough came in 1977 with the release of their iconic song "Disco Inferno." The track was featured on the soundtrack of the hit film Saturday Night Fever and became a massive hit, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. "Disco Inferno" earned The Trammps a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1978. The song has since become a staple of disco music and is considered one of the genre's defining tracks. The Trammps continued to release music throughout the 1970s and 1980s, but were unable to replicate the success of "Disco Inferno." Despite this, the band remained a popular live act and continued to perform at venues and events around the world. The Trammps' impact on music is undeniable, particularly in the realm of disco. Their energetic performances and infectious grooves helped define the sound of the era and have influenced countless artists in the years since. The band's music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans of disco and soul music to this day. Though the original lineup of The Trammps disbanded in the 1980s, their legacy lives on through their timeless music and enduring influence on the world of disco. The Trammps' contribution to music history is cemented by their iconic hits and their place as pioneers of the disco genre.