Bloodstone is an American funk, R&B, and soul band that emerged from Kansas City in the early 1960s. What began as a high school doo-wop group eventually evolved into one of the defining acts of 1970s funk and “Black rock.” Best known for hits like “Natural High” and “Never Let You Go,” Bloodstone blended tight vocal harmonies with live instrumentation, becoming a favorite on both R&B and pop charts.
Though their mainstream success declined in the 1980s, they have continued to perform and record into the 21st century.
| Artist Name | Bloodstone |
|---|---|
| Origin | Kansas City, Missouri, USA |
| Genres | Funk, Soul, R&B, Black Rock |
| Years Active | 1962–present |
| Labels | London, T-Neck, Isley Brothers’ label |
| Key Members | Charles Love, Charles McCormick, Harry Williams, Willis Draffen |
| Biggest Hit | “Natural High” (#10 Pop, #4 R&B, 1973) |
| Notable Albums | Natural High, Unreal, Riddle of the Sphinx, We Go a Long Way Back |
| Associated Acts | Mike Vernon, The Isley Brothers |
From The Sinceres to Bloodstone
The origins of Bloodstone date back to 1962, when a group of high school friends in Kansas City, Missouri formed a doo-wop vocal group called The Sinceres. Their early repertoire included soul and R&B standards performed at local shows and talent contests.
By the late 1960s, the group moved to Las Vegas, where they performed in lounges and nightclubs. From there, they relocated to Los Angeles to explore better opportunities in the music industry.
While in L.A., the group made a bold decision—they taught themselves to play instruments, transitioning from a vocal group to a self-contained band. This shift helped set them apart from other doo-wop outfits and positioned them for the funk explosion of the 1970s.
Relocating to London and Their Breakthrough
Despite their new musical direction, Bloodstone struggled to secure a recording deal in Los Angeles. Acting on advice from their manager, the group moved to London, England in 1971, hoping for a fresh start.
In London, they met Mike Vernon, a British producer known for working with blues and rock artists like Fleetwood Mac and John Mayall. Vernon saw potential in the band and began producing their sessions.
Their big break came in 1973 with the release of “Natural High,” written by bassist Charles McCormick. Issued on London Records, the single became a crossover hit:
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#10 on the Billboard Hot 100
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#4 on the R&B Singles Chart
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#20 on the Adult Contemporary Chart
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#40 on the UK Singles Chart
The success of “Natural High” helped propel its parent album to #2 on the R&B Albums Chart and #30 on the Billboard 200.
Bloodstone’s Signature Sound
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Bloodstone’s music fused elements of funk, soul, and rock with expressive lyrics and musicianship. Their style reflected both their doo-wop vocal roots and their growth as instrumentalists.
While “Natural High” was a smooth, romantic ballad, many of their other hits leaned heavily into the funk genre with syncopated grooves, horn sections, and socially conscious themes.
Continued Success: 1973–1977
Following “Natural High,” Bloodstone released a series of successful singles:
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“Never Let You Go” (1973): #43 Pop, #7 R&B
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“Outside Woman” (1974): #34 Pop, #2 R&B
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“That’s Not How It Goes” (1975): #82 Pop, #22 R&B
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“My Little Lady” (1975): #57 Pop, #4 R&B
Their albums during this time also charted well:
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Unreal (1974)
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I Need Time (1974)
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Riddle of the Sphinx (1975)
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Do You Wanna Do a Thing? (1976)
Bloodstone became known for blending melodic love songs with gritty funk tracks. Their sound was comparable to other 1970s acts like Earth, Wind & Fire and The Isley Brothers, though they maintained a more grassroots, rock-oriented edge.
Place in the Black Rock and Funk Movements
In the 1970s, the lines between rock, funk, and soul were blurring. Bands like Sly & the Family Stone, War, and Parliament-Funkadelic dominated charts and dance floors.
Bloodstone fit right into this space. They were often categorized under “Black rock”—a term used to describe African-American artists who played guitar-driven music with elements of funk, soul, and blues. Bloodstone distinguished themselves with live instrumentation and a more guitar-forward sound than many of their contemporaries.
Decline and Attempts at a Comeback
By the early 1980s, Bloodstone’s commercial momentum began to fade. Tastes were changing, and disco and electro-funk had taken over the R&B landscape.
In 1982, Bloodstone signed with T-Neck Records, the label run by The Isley Brothers. They released an album and single titled “We Go a Long Way Back”. The title track became a minor hit:
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#25 on the R&B chart
Though it was a respectable return, the comeback was brief. After that release, their chart presence largely disappeared.
Later Years and Legacy
Even without consistent radio play, Bloodstone continued to tour and perform. For years, the band kept its original lineup intact—a rarity among groups from their era.
Sadly, they lost key members in the 2000s:
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Willis Draffen passed away in 2002
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Charles Love died in 2014
Despite these losses, Bloodstone remains active. The current lineup includes:
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Harry Williams (drums/percussion)
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Charles McCormick (bass/vocals)
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Donald Brown (newest member)
They continue to perform at festivals and soul music events, especially those celebrating classic R&B and funk.
Cultural Impact
Bloodstone’s influence extends beyond their chart performance. Their song “Natural High” has appeared in film and TV, including the 1997 movie Jackie Brown directed by Quentin Tarantino.
Their blend of live instruments, soulful vocals, and funk rhythms helped pave the way for later bands that emphasized musicianship and message over image.
Final Thoughts
Bloodstone’s journey from Kansas City doo-wop singers to internationally known funk musicians is a story of evolution, perseverance, and musical talent. While their time at the top was brief, their work—especially “Natural High”—remains beloved by fans of classic R&B and soul.
Their willingness to adapt, learn instruments, and develop a distinctive sound helped them stand out in a crowded musical era. Today, Bloodstone continues to keep the spirit of 1970s soul and funk alive for new generations.