Change
Sunrise:
Change is an influential R&B, soul, and post-disco group best known for helping shape the sophisticated sound of early 1980s dance and urban music. Formed by Italian producers Jacques Fred Petrus and Mauro Malavasi, Change was unique in that it blended European production with American soul vocals, creating a polished, cosmopolitan style that stood out during the post-disco era. The group’s music seamlessly combined funk-driven basslines, lush strings, and smooth harmonies, appealing to both dance floors and soul music audiences.
Change gained widespread recognition with their debut album *The Glow of Love*, which featured standout tracks such as “The Glow of Love” and “Searching.” The group worked with top-tier vocalists, including Luther Vandross, whose powerful and emotive performances became a defining element of their sound. Rather than functioning as a traditional band, Change operated as a studio collective, allowing producers to collaborate with different singers and musicians while maintaining a consistent musical identity.
The group’s influence extends far beyond their original releases. Change’s elegant blend of soul, funk, and dance music has been heavily sampled in hip-hop and remains a staple for DJs who specialize in classic R&B, boogie, and soul. Their music represents a moment when global creativity reshaped American soul, leaving a timeless catalog that continues to resonate with listeners who appreciate smooth grooves, rich production, and soulful sophistication.