Disco-Tex and the Sex-O-Lettes were a colorful disco group from the 1970s known for their energetic, campy style and infectious dance tracks. Fronted by the flamboyant Monti Rock III and guided by producer Bob Crewe, the group enjoyed brief but memorable success with hits like “Get Dancin’” and “I Wanna Dance wit’ Choo (Doo Dat Dance).”
Their music and persona earned them a niche following—especially among LGBTQ audiences—and a lasting place in disco history.
| Artist Name | Disco-Tex and the Sex-O-Lettes |
|---|---|
| Founder | Monti Rock III (Joseph Montanez Jr.) |
| Active Years | 1974–1977 |
| Genres | Disco, Dance, Funk |
| Notable Members | Monti Rock III, Bob Crewe, Kenny Nolan, Cidny Bullens, Jocelyn Brown |
| Labels | Chelsea Records |
| Best-Known Hits | “Get Dancin'”, “I Wanna Dance wit’ Choo (Doo Dat Dance)” |
| Fanbase | Mainstream disco audience, LGBTQ community |
Formation and Background
Monti Rock III, born Joseph Montanez Jr. on May 29, 1942, started as a celebrity hairdresser in New York City before becoming a fixture on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. Known for his flamboyant stage presence, Monti Rock used his charisma to become a performer during the rise of disco.
With support from producer Bob Crewe—who helped craft the sound of the Four Seasons—and songwriter Kenny Nolan, Monti Rock launched Disco-Tex and the Sex-O-Lettes in 1974. The group was rounded out by talented vocalists including Cidny Bullens (known then as Cindy Bullens) and future soul star Jocelyn Brown, who provided backup vocals on later recordings.
Breakthrough Hits and Chart Success
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The group’s debut single, “Get Dancin’,” exploded onto the disco scene in 1974. Its blend of funky basslines, shout-outs, and dance-floor energy made it a favorite in clubs. The song reached #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #8 in the UK, solidifying the band as a new disco act to watch.
Their follow-up hit, “I Wanna Dance wit’ Choo (Doo Dat Dance),” released in 1975, hit #23 on the US charts and #6 in the UK. It also showcased Jocelyn Brown’s powerhouse vocals and the group’s over-the-top style, which made them stand out in a crowded disco landscape.
Albums and Style
The band released two full-length albums:
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Disco-Tex and the Sex-O-Lettes (1975) – Included both hit singles and established the group’s sound.
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Manhattan Millionaire (1976) – Continued the group’s disco themes with more theatrical flair and strong vocal arrangements, particularly from Jocelyn Brown.
Their music mixed camp, soul, dance beats, and funk, wrapped in a glittery, party-centric package. Monti Rock’s exaggerated stage presence, flamboyant costumes, and talk-singing style made him a forerunner of theatrical disco acts.
Cultural Impact
Disco-Tex and the Sex-O-Lettes were one of the first openly campy disco groups, which earned them a devoted following in the LGBTQ community. Their live performances, often described as chaotic and joyful, resonated with audiences seeking both fun and freedom of expression.
Their legacy continues among collectors of classic disco and pop culture historians. While their time in the spotlight was short, their contribution to the evolution of disco is undeniable.
Later Years
Monti Rock III continued to perform sporadically after the group’s breakup. He reinvented himself several times over the decades, appearing in Las Vegas, participating in pride events, and even launching small-scale comebacks. While Disco-Tex and the Sex-O-Lettes didn’t last beyond the disco boom, their music remains a staple of retro dance playlists.
Partial Discography
Singles:
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“Get Dancin’” – #10 US, #8 UK (1974)
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“I Wanna Dance wit’ Choo (Doo Dat Dance)” – #23 US, #6 UK (1975)
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“Hot Lava” (1976)
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“Manhattan Millionaire” (1976)
Albums:
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Disco-Tex and the Sex-O-Lettes (1975)
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Manhattan Millionaire (1976)