Sapphire was an American funk band that released a 1981 self-titled album on Quantum Records.
Members: Mando Saldate (vocals, keyboards, percussion), Rick “Smiley” Malone (bass), Donny Marsh (synthesizer), Ted Wienbrener (drums), Mike McGoldrick (guitar)
Background
Sapphire emerged in San Francisco around Mando Saldate, a singer, keyboardist, and songwriter who graduated in 1974 from Balboa High School. He assembled a quintet with guitarist Mike McGoldrick, bassist Rick “Smiley” Malone, synthesist Donny Marsh, and drummer William “Ted” Wienbrener.
McGoldrick attended Abraham Lincoln High School from 1972–75 and later led Cross Fire, a local Santana tribute band. Wienbrener played beforehand in Common Pleasure with ex-Silk & Soul percussionist Dom Marchand.
By 1981, Sapphire linked with Quantum Records, a Toronto independent with titles by Rex Chainbelt and Vezi Tayyeb.
Discography:
- Sapphire (1981)
Artist/Album Pages:
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