Brick – Funk Innovators from Atlanta
Brick emerged from the vibrant musical landscape of Atlanta, Georgia in the mid-1970s, blending funk, soul, and jazz into a distinctive style they famously coined as “Dazz” — disco jazz. The original lineup featured:

Jimmy Brown – lead vocals, flute, saxophone, horns

Regi Hargis Hickman – vocals, guitar, bass (d. October 15, 2021, Atlanta, Georgia)

Ray Ransom – lead vocals, bass, keyboards, percussion

Donald Nevins – vocals, acoustic piano, Clavinet, Moog (b. 1949, Brooklyn, NY – d. August 7, 2011, Reynolds, Georgia)

Eddie Irons – lead vocals, drums, keyboards

In 1976, Brick signed with Bang Records (via CBS) and broke onto the international scene with the hit single “Dazz,” which became a staple of U.K. funk/soul playlists and reached the U.K. Top 40.

Their discography reflects their evolution through the funk and soul eras:

Good High (1976) – featuring “Dazz”

Brick (1977) – featuring “Dusic” and “Ain’t Gonna Hurt Nobody”

Stoneheart (1978)

Waiting On You (1980)

Summer Heat (1981) – featuring “Sweat (Til You Get Wet)”, co-produced with Ray Parker Jr.

After 5 (1982) – including “Free Dancer”

Too Tuff (1988) – produced by Michael J. Powell for the Magic City label

Brick’s distinctive sound and live energy earned them an invitation to perform at the White House during the presidency of Jimmy Carter, highlighting their national recognition.

Sadly, two of the group’s founding members have passed:

Donald Nevins in 2011 at age 62

Regi Hargis Hickman in 2021

Their contributions to the funk, soul, and jazz scenes remain enduring, and Brick’s legacy lives on through their innovative music and timeless grooves.