Ernie Isley celebrates 73
Ernie Isley officially joined The Isley Brothers in 1973, contributing heavily to their transformation from a vocal harmony group into a powerful, instrument-driven band
Ernie Isley celebrates 73
The American musician, songwriter, and guitarist Ernest “Ernie” Isley, best known for his role as a key member of the legendary R&B, soul, and funk group The Isley Brothers, was born on March 7, 1952, in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. He grew up in a musical household, surrounded by his older brothers — O’Kelly, Rudolph, and Ronald Isley — who had already established The Isley Brothers as a successful vocal group.
From an early age, Ernie displayed a deep interest in music. Influenced by iconic guitarists such as Jimi Hendrix (who briefly played with The Isley Brothers in the 1960s), Ernie developed a distinctive guitar style that blended rock, funk, and soul.
Ernie Isley officially joined The Isley Brothers in 1973, contributing heavily to their transformation from a vocal harmony group into a powerful, instrument-driven band. His debut as a full-time member came with the album 3 + 3, which marked a turning point for the group.
Ernie’s searing guitar work became a defining element in hits like “That Lady”, “Summer Breeze”, and “Fight the Power”. His mastery of the guitar, often characterized by piercing solos and melodic licks, added a rock-influenced edge to the band’s soulful sound.
Ernie Isley’s versatility extended beyond the guitar. He also played bass, drums, and wrote or co-wrote several major hits for the band throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
In addition to his work with The Isley Brothers, Ernie pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album, High Wire, in 1990. While his solo work didn’t achieve the same level of mainstream success, it further showcased his exceptional skills as a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter.
Ernie has also collaborated with various artists across multiple genres, continuing to influence generations of musicians.
Ernie Isley is known for his humble and introspective personality. He has remained dedicated to his family and band throughout his career. While relatively private about his personal life, he has openly expressed his deep respect for Jimi Hendrix, crediting Hendrix’s brief time with the Isley Brothers as a major influence on his playing style.
Ernie Isley’s fusion of rock, funk, and soul helped redefine The Isley Brothers’ sound, ensuring their continued success across multiple decades. Isley was inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 with The Isley Brothers.
Watch Ernie Isley talking about sleeping with his guitar
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