Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
St. Paul

Britain's Average White Band hit it big with an American sound

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Today's Morning Edition music is from the song "Pick Up the Pieces" by the Average White Band, which was No. 1 on the pop charts 40 years ago Friday.

The band formed around 1970 in Scotland where American soul and R&B were quite popular in the local clubs.

According to their website, the band's name was inspired by a friend who was in the British Diplomatic Service, who made remarks like "Uganda is just too hot for the average white man."

A new incarnation of the Average White Band was formed in 1989 and continues to tour the world.

Video: Average White Band live at the Montreux, 1977