THE COOL NOTES
Lauraine McIntosh is best known as the lead singer of the British soul and R&B group The Cool Notes, who in the 1980s had a string of chart hits and airplay both in the UK and internationally.
Made up of seven members, they first worked together as a Lovers Rock Reggae Band during the mid 1970s. Initially recording a number of reggae / Lovers Rock tracks for the Jama record label, which was run from a record shop in Brixton, South London.
They are perhaps best known for their hit singles ‘You’re Never Too Young’, ‘In Your Car’ and ‘Spend the Night’, which garnered them significant attention and helped cement their place in the British soul music scene and earn them a loyal following.
The group’s early success was bolstered by a contemporary twist on classic R&B, setting them apart from other acts in the UK. The Cool Notes became well-known for their unique blend of smooth soul and upbeat, danceable tracks that resonated with fans of both traditional R&B and the new wave of British soul music.
The band was heavily influenced by the soul, funk, and disco sounds that were popular in the 1970s and 1980s. Lauraine’s powerful and emotive voice was one of the defining features of the group, and she quickly became a focal point of their live performances and recordings.
The band’s influence can still be heard in the music of contemporary British R&B artists who have cited acts like The Cool Notes as an inspiration.
In addition to her work with the group, Lauraine McIntosh has continued her music career over the years, lending her voice to various collaborative projects and live performances. Her presence in the music scene remains a testament to her enduring talent and the lasting legacy of The Cool Notes.
