Change

Change are an Italian R&B, disco and funk group from Bologna, formed in 1979 and active until 1986. They develop as a studio-based project rather than a conventional touring band, with a polished sound that moves from disco into R&B and pop funk.

Formation and line-up

The project begins in 1979 under the direction of the Italian musician Davide Romani, who joins GMP in 1977 as a self-taught bass guitarist. Another key Italian figure is Mauro Malavasi, with support from Paolo Gianolio on guitar and Rudy Trevisi, who plays an important behind-the-scenes role in the group’s work. The project takes the name Change after its original unnamed phase.

The lineup includes a large number of singers and musicians associated with the recordings, including Timmy Allen, Jeff Bova, Jocelyn Brown, Deborah Cooper, Lisa Fischer, Deborah Gray, La La, Mauro Malavasi, James Robinson, Davide Romani, Andy Schwartz, Luther Vandross and Tanyayette Willoughby. The group also works with Wayne Garfield on some material.

Sound and recording approach

Change are associated with 1980s pop/disco and R&B. Their music is described as smooth and polished, with disco roots that later shift toward R&B and funk. The group operates as a studio concept, with session singers and songwriters brought in for recordings. Their visual presentation also reflects this, with album artwork that does not present them as a conventional band.

Key contributors

Luther Vandross is one of the most significant voices on the early recordings and becomes the group’s main vocalist. The project helps provide his breakthrough before his solo success with Never Too Much. Jocelyn Brown also contributes vocals; she has prior experience with Musique and Inner Life, and later builds a solo career. Tanyayette Willoughby contributes lyrics, while the Italian team is responsible for much of the composition and production.

Albums

The group’s albums include The Glow of Love (1980), Miracles (1981), Sharing Your Love (1982), This Is Your Time (1983), Change of Heart (1984) and Turn On Your Radio (1985). Change of Heart features music production and arrangements from Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis.

Legacy

Change are regarded as an important but often overlooked act in early-1980s soul, disco and R&B. Their recordings link Italian studio production with American vocal talent, and their early work also connects to later careers by artists such as Luther Vandross and Jocelyn Brown.