Few groups capture the sound, soul and excitement of the 1970s quite like The Real Thing.
Formed in Liverpool in 1974, the group rose from childhood friendship to national stardom, becoming one of the most successful British soul acts of the era. Featuring original vocalists Chris Amoo and Dave Smith, The Real Thing have performed together for more than four decades, building an extraordinary career filled with unforgettable records and electrifying live performances.
Their journey into the spotlight began with an appearance on the hugely popular television talent show Opportunity Knocks — the 1970s equivalent of The X Factor. It was not long before they achieved phenomenal chart success with ‘You to Me Are Everything’, which raced to number one and became one of the defining soul anthems of the decade.
The hit marked the beginning of an incredible run between 1976 and 1980, during which The Real Thing were rarely absent from the British charts. Further classics followed, including ‘Can’t Get By Without You’ and the infectious funk favourite ‘Can You Feel the Force?’
Although the 1980s brought a quieter period in terms of new recordings, the group remained one of the busiest and most sought-after live acts on the club, university, jazz and funk circuits.
Then, in 1986 — a decade after their original breakthrough — The Real Thing returned to the charts in spectacular style. A remixed version of ‘You to Me Are Everything’ became a Top 5 hit, followed by successful remixes of ‘Can’t Get By Without You’ and ‘Can You Feel the Force?’, introducing their timeless sound to an entirely new generation.
With more than three million records sold, chart success spanning two decades and over 40 years of performing together, The Real Thing remain true legends of British soul.
Available with a fully live five-piece band or as a playback performance, The Real Thing continue to thrill audiences around the world at festivals, theatres, corporate events and exclusive private celebrations.
