Rufus

Rufus is a Chicago funk and contemporary R&B group active from 1970 to 1983. The line-up includes Chaka Khan, Tony Maiden, David “Hawk” Wolinski, Al Ciner, Andre Fischer, John “JR” Robinson, Bobby Watson, Richard “Moon” Calhoun, Chuck Colbert, Dennis Belfield, Kevin Murphy and Ron Stockert.

The group is best known for helping launch Chaka Khan’s career. Its sound sits in funk, soul, disco, rhythm and blues and pop, with the funk and contemporary R&B side of its work especially associated with its 1970s output.

Breakthrough and key recordings

Rufus first gains wider attention with its cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Maybe Your Baby”, which earns the band his support. Wonder then writes “Tell Me Something Good” specifically for Khan’s voice. Issued from the album Rags to Rufus, the song becomes a top-five hit and turns Rufus and Khan into major stars.

Among the band’s best-known songs are “Tell Me Something Good”, “Sweet Thing” and “Ain’t Nobody”.