The band's origins date from when Santana guitarist Neal Schon formed the band Azteca along with Larry Graham (bass guitar) and Gregg Errico (drums), both from Sly and the Family Stone, and Peter Sears (keyboards), from Hot Tuna and Jefferson Starship. Santana bass guitar player Tom Rutley would move into to the bass spot with Azteca. That band, like Santana with heavy Latin influences, would eventually morph into Graham Central Station, while Schon would found Journey.
Graham Central Station's biggest hit was Your Love, which charted at number 9 in 1975. The group integrated Graham's slap bass style along with influences ranging from marching band to gospel. They played with the dichotomy between the funk rock star image and the "sanctified" gospel group image. Some of their recordings feature their then Warner Bros labelmates Tower of Power horn section. Graham went solo in the later 1970's having a chart hit with "One in a Million, You".
While no longer as popular as in the 70's, Larry Graham (born in Beaumont Texas in 1946) continues to tour & play music into the 21st century, most notably with Prince with whom he shares an interest in the Jehovah's Witness religion. In 1999, Graham recorded an album for Prince's label under the Graham Central Station moniker that featured old Sly Stone era bandmates Cynthia Robinson and sax player Jerry Martini and performed on Prince's "Rave Un2 2000" live DVD and appeared as a featured act throughout Prince's Jam of The Year tour.
G.C.S.
Graham Central Station Lyrics
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Name of my group
We're making this record especially for you
Graham Central Station is the
Name of my group
Through the grace of God
We'll play and sing for you
Hoo, hoo, hoo
Hoo, hoo, hoo
Hoo, hoo, hoo
Graham Central Station is the
Name of my group
We're making this record especially for you
Graham Central Station is the
Name of my group
Through the grace of God
We'll play and sing for you
Say mama, what's happenin', this
Is Larry Graham
Your favorite Leo
Right here on the bass and I say
This ain't nothing but a party!
This is Hershel Happiness, the Leo
On clavinet and I say
Smile and be sеrious!
This is Robert Sam, they call 'em Butch
Butch plays organ and Robеrt Sam's a Cancer
Lead guitar, David Dynamite!
This is Willie Wild on drums
They call me Chocolate, everybody's a star
But your shine is just different from mine!
Graham Central Station is the
Name of our group
We're making this record especially for you
Graham Central Station is the
Name of our group
Through the grace of God
We'll play and sing for you
The lyrics to "G.C.S." by Graham Central Station are a straightforward introduction to the band and a proclamation of their purpose. The song begins by emphasizing the group's name, Graham Central Station, highlighting their identity. It also mentions that they are creating this record specifically for their listeners, suggesting a personal connection and dedication to their audience.
The repetition of the lyrics, "Graham Central Station is the name of my group," serves to emphasize their identity once again. The mention of the "grace of God" implies that they believe their musical abilities are a gift, and they express gratitude for this talent. Together, they promise to play and sing for their audience, indicating their commitment to providing entertainment and enjoyment.
The repeated vocalizations of "Hoo, hoo, hoo" in the song serve as a musical hook, adding a catchy element to the track. It helps create a party-like atmosphere, further emphasizing the band's intention to create a fun and energetic experience for the listeners.
The next part of the song features individual band members introducing themselves with a playful and lighthearted tone. Larry Graham, the bassist, takes the microphone, presents himself as the favorite Leo, and sets the mood by declaring, "This ain't nothing but a party!" This line suggests that their music is meant to be a celebration, an experience where people can let loose and have a good time.
Hershel Happiness, the clavinet player, adds to the atmosphere by encouraging listeners to "smile and be serious!" This line implies that even though their music is joyful and meant to be enjoyed, there is also a deeper emotional connection and meaning behind it. It's a reminder to find happiness in life and perhaps to appreciate the serious aspects as well.
The rest of the band members briefly introduce themselves, mentioning their zodiac signs (Leo and Cancer) and their respective instruments. Each member's contribution is acknowledged, creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone's role is valued.
In the final lines, Larry Graham refers to himself as "Chocolate" and claims that everyone is a star. However, he notes that each person's shine is unique, implying that individuality is important and that everyone has something special to offer. This line conveys a message of self-acceptance and celebrating the differences that make each person shine in their own way.
Overall, "G.C.S." serves as a declaration of the band's identity, their gratitude for their musical abilities, and their commitment to entertaining and connecting with their audience. It is an invitation to have fun, celebrate life, and embrace individuality.
Line by Line Meaning
Graham Central Station is the
Identifying the group name
Name of my group
Reiterating the group name
We're making this record especially for you
Creating a special record specifically for the listener
Through the grace of God
With the divine blessings
We'll play and sing for you
Performing and singing for the listener
Hoo, hoo, hoo
Sustained vocal expression of excitement
Say mama, what's happenin', this
Addressing a woman and asking about the situation
Is Larry Graham
Introducing Larry Graham, the artist
Your favorite Leo
Referring to Larry Graham's astrological sign and implying popularity
Right here on the bass and I say
Playing the bass and making a statement
This ain't nothing but a party!
Emphasizing that it is a lively celebration
This is Hershel Happiness, the Leo
Introducing Hershel Happiness, another member belonging to the Leo astrological sign
On clavinet and I say
Playing the clavinet and expressing something
Smile and be serious!
Encouraging to maintain both enjoyment and focus
This is Robert Sam, they call 'em Butch
Introducing Robert Sam, also known by the nickname Butch
Butch plays organ and Robert Sam's a Cancer
Describing Butch's instrument and zodiac sign
Lead guitar, David Dynamite!
Introducing David Dynamite as the lead guitar player
This is Willie Wild on drums
Introducing Willie Wild as the drummer
They call me Chocolate, everybody's a star
Referring to oneself as Chocolate and acknowledging that everyone has their unique shine
But your shine is just different from mine!
Recognizing the distinction in individual brilliance
Name of our group
Restating the group name
Through the grace of God
Acknowledging the role of divine blessings
We'll play and sing for you
Presenting the commitment to perform and sing for the listener
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Larry Graham
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Blake Kersey
on Today
Wrong lyrics!