Buffalo, New York recording artists, The Exoutics inducted into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame Thursday October 6th, 2011. The induction ceremony was held at The Tralf Music Hall in downtown Buffalo NY. 

 

The group, organized in the early 70’s by founding members Omeri Monroe (bass guitar), Van Brailsford (drums) and Ron Walker (guitar). They added keyboardist Marvin Valentine in 1971. All members were in their early teens when the group formed.  The “Exoutics” evolved from a five, member vocal group named “The Exotics” which disbanded in 1971 leaving the musicians to continue. The musicians modified and maintained the name and continue to perform as “THE EXOUTICS” to this day, making the Exoutics one of the longest performing R&B groups in Buffalo.

While performing in small night clubs in the early 70’s they became locally recognized after recording their first single “Here We Go Again” in 1978 on their independent label. This ballad became a regional success climbing to number 12 on regional charts. The success of the song prompted the group to write and record “The Exoutic Touch” album, which featured the soulful vocals of the late Darrel Vaden and very much challenged the musical status quo at the time with a brand of dance funk and raw soul music previously unheard. The album was moderately successful and very well received in the U.K., Europe and Japan. The album was overshadowed by the enormous success of Rick James. The group increased their appeal performing in small concert halls and larger night club venues over the years.

The single “Spring Time Love” featuring Tom Hall and Annette Batie was released in 1981 and climbed to number 2 on regional charts, remaining on the charts for about 6 months. Although never receiving widespread national recognition The Exoutics continue writing, recording and performing. Recently inspired by the Neo-Soul trend to recapture the “old school” soul music feel and repeated requests by fans to make “The Exoutics” songs available, The original Exoutic Touch album  was released on CD along with the “Anything You Want Old School – Funk, Love & Soul” CD.