The S.O.S. Band
The S.O.S. Band, which stands for Sounds of Success, is an influential American R&B and electro-funk group that originated in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1977. Initially known as the Santa Monica Band, the group was rebranded as The S.O.S. Band by the time they signed with Tabu Records, under the guidance of label head Clarence Avant. Sigidi Abdullah was assigned as the primary songwriter and producer, which played a significant role in shaping their distinctive sound during their formative years.
They gained prominence in the 1980s with a series of hit songs that blended R&B, funk, and disco elements. Their breakthrough came with the release of their debut album, which featured the well-received single "Take Your Time (Do It Right)," which became a massive hit and helped establish their reputation in the music industry. The band is noted for its catchy melodies, rhythmic grooves, and the vocal prowess of its lead singer, Mary Davis.
Throughout the 1980s, The S.O.S. Band continued to release successful albums and singles, contributing to their legacy as one of R&B's defining groups. They are often celebrated for iconic songs such as "Just Be Good to Me," "No One's Gonna Love You," and "Tell Me If You Still Care." Their music not only topped various charts but also left a lasting impact on the genres of R&B and funk.
In 1987, after several successful years, Mary Davis left the group to pursue a solo career. This transition led the band to record additional albums, including "Diamonds in the Raw," which reached number 43 on the R&B charts in 1989. Despite the lineup changes and challenges inherent in the music industry, The S.O.S. Band maintained a loyal fanbase and continued to tour and perform.
The S.O.S. Band is recognized as one of Atlanta's most influential R&B and funk groups, noted for their contributions to the genre and their ability to evolve over the years. Their music remains popular, and they are often cited as inspirations for many contemporary artists in the R&B and funk scenes.<div hidden>the sos band</div>
Sands Of Time
The SOS Band
A1 Even When You Sleep 4:08
A2 Sands Of Time 4:28
A3 Borrowed Love 5:26
A4 Nothing But The Best 4:48
B1 The Finest
Guest Vocals – Alexander O'Neal, Cherrelle 6:09
B2 No Lies 4:58
B3 Two Time Lover
Written-By – J. Bryant, Jr., J. Thomas, Lloyd Oby 4:30
B4 Do You Still Want To?
Written-By – J. Bryant, Jr., J. Thomas, R. Bryant 4:57
B5 Sands Of Time (Reprise) 0:28
Written by T. Lewis-J. Harris III (tracks: A1 to B2, B5)
Label: Tabu Records – FZ 40279
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1986
Genre: R&B Soul, Funk
Style: Eighties Soul, Contemporary R&B
Released on April 9, 1986, Sands of Time is widely regarded as one of The S.O.S. Band's most polished and sophisticated works. Produced primarily by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, it serves as the final studio effort to feature the group's original lead vocalist, Mary Davis, before her temporary departure.
Retrospective reviews from 2025 and 2026 continue to highlight the album as a high-water mark for mid-80s R&B:-
Production Excellence: Critics praise the "Flyte Tyme" production for its thick, lush, and "nocturnal" hues, blending synth-funk with sophisticated electro-soul. It is often compared to Janet Jackson’s Control (released the same year), but noted for having a "moodier" and "richer" sound.
Vocal Performance: Mary Davis’s "husky" and "magnetic" vocals are cited as the album's emotional core, particularly on tracks like "Even When You Sleep" and "The Finest".
Consistency: Unlike previous efforts that were sometimes criticized for having "filler" B-sides, Sands of Time is lauded for its focused consistency, with some fans calling it their "most complete" album.
Key Tracks:-
"The Finest": The album's centerpiece, featuring guest appearances by Alexander O'Neal and Cherrelle. It reached #2 on the Billboard R&B charts and remains an anthem of 80s synth-funk.
"Borrowed Love": A hard-hitting, funky single that performed well in both the US and UK.
"Even When You Sleep": A mellow, mesmeric opener that sets a sophisticated tone for the record.
"No Lies": A propulsive dance track that reached #2 on the Hot Dance Club Play chart.
"Sands of Time": A sublime duet ballad between Mary Davis and Abdul Ra'oof.
The album achieved RIAA Gold certification and peaked at #4 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. While it represented a slight commercial step back from their earlier platinum peaks, it is celebrated as the band "quitting at their absolute peak" creatively.
In summary, Sands of Time is widely regarded as a pinnacle of 80s R&B, synth-funk, and dance music, celebrated for its tight musicianship, sophisticated production, and timeless appeal.