Average White Band was a Scottish funk and R and B group who rose to fame in the mid-1970s with hits like the instrumental Pick Up the Pieces and albums AWB and Cut the Cake. Their name was suggested by Bonnie Bramlett. Their energetic blend of soul and disco influenced later acts such as the Brand New Heavies and their music has been widely sampled by artists spanning hip hop, R and B, and pop, including Public Enemy, Nas, A Tribe Called Quest, and TLC. As one of the most sampled groups in history, Average White Band’s grooves continue to inspire new generations.