FROM TOXTETH TO THE WORLD: THE REAL THING HONOURED AS LIVERPOOL LOOKS TO THE FUTURE OF BLACK MUSIC

The Real Thing, one of the UK’s most successful soul acts of the 1970s and 80s, has been honoured in our city by Liverpool City Council with the prestigious Citizens of Honour award. In a ceremony at St George’s Hall, founding members Chris Amoo and Dave Smith—now the only surviving members of the four-piece band from Toxteth—were presented with commemorative scrolls marking the accolade. The families of the late Eddie Amoo and Ray Lake, the band’s original members, were there to represent them.

The Merseyside band is best known for their 1976 hit “You to Me Are Everything,” which made them the first all-Black British band to achieve a UK number-one single. Reflecting on their journey, Chris Amoo told BBC Radio Merseyside: “When me and Dave formed the band, and we were singing in our front rooms over our favourite records, we never dreamt, along with Eddie and Ray, that we would ever see a day like this. We just wanted to sing, that’s all we wanted to do, and here we are receiving this award which we are so proud of.”

While The Real Thing’s success began in the 70s, their cultural impact has stretched far beyond that era. Their music not only gave voice to the experiences of Black Britain but also resonated globally. “Lots of people used to think we were from America,” Amoo said, “but now they know we are Toxteth guys.”

Their legacy lives on in both covers and samples of their songs. “Children of the Ghetto,” one of their most socially conscious tracks, has been covered by artists like Mary J. Blige and Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire. The track was also sampled by rapper Freddie Gibbs and producer Madlib on their acclaimed album Bandana, proving that The Real Thing’s music continues to influence modern artists across genres.

For DJ 2Kind, who grew up in Liverpool, The Real Thing’s 4 from 8 album held special significance. Its cover, featuring the band members standing on a street corner in Toxteth, was a powerful image. “That was huge for young Black artists like me,” 2Kind recalled. “Seeing guys from our community on an album cover that was being seen around the world – that showed us what was possible.” The album, with its reflection of the band’s local roots, became an inspiration for many aspiring musicians in the city.

DJ and broadcaster Trevor Nelson, a lifelong fan, captured their enduring appeal. “I remember growing up, watching Top of the Pops and thinking ‘Stevie Wonder,’ ‘Earth, Wind & Fire,’—they were untouchable. Then, I heard this sound, so smooth, so soulful, and I thought, ‘These guys must be American.’ When I found out they were four Black guys from Liverpool… unbelievable.”

The Real Thing produced several other iconic hits beyond “You to Me Are Everything,” including “Can’t Get By Without You” and “Can You Feel the Force.” Their music not only defined a generation but paved the way for future Black British artists. Keith Harris, the ex-general manager of Motown Records, reflected on their significance. “It was so unusual to see Black British artists get any kind of exposure back then. Seeing them top the charts was huge for me.”

This award also highlighted ongoing challenges for Black music and its creators in Liverpool. During the ceremony, Craig Charles, the Lord Mayor, and others referenced how long overdue the recognition was, and how socio-economic barriers continue to hold back Black music creators. There is now a call for the city to address these issues, ensuring that future Black artists are not only inspired by groups like The Real Thing but also have the infrastructure in place to succeed.

The recently released REMAP report by the Liverpool City Region Music Board highlights that the city’s Black musicians face a lack of opportunities to perform live, limited media exposure, and few role models in senior industry positions. Without adequate support systems, it is difficult for the next generation of Black artists to achieve the same level of success. The report calls for more targeted support, including creating a dedicated Black music hub in the city and increasing engagement with Black youth in music education.

However, what shouldn’t be overlooked is the impact that bands like The Real Thing have on the next generation. For Eunice Obianagha, Head of Diversity at UK Music, The Real Thing’s legacy lies in the barriers they broke for young Black artists. “They set the bar. Young Black people can come from anywhere and achieve greatness. That is The Real Thing’s legacy.”

Even now, as they receive the Citizens of Honour award, their focus remains humble. “We are very proud we are from Liverpool,” Amoo said, smiling. For their fans, it’s about more than just the music. It’s about four lads from Liverpool who changed the game and gave everyone else permission to dream.