Rabbitt is a South African pop rock band formed in Johannesburg in 1972. The band evolved from an earlier teen rock group called The Conglomeration, with founding members including Duncan Faure, Trevor Rabin, Ronnie Robot (Ronald Friedman), and Neil Cloud. Known for their blend of rock, pop, and progressive elements, Rabbitt became one of the country's most popular and influential acts throughout the 1970s, sometimes referred to as South Africa's version of The Beatles due to the adulation they inspired. Their musical style was marked by technical proficiency, intricate arrangements, and innovative use of keyboards and synthesizers. Rabbitt achieved notable chart success in South Africa, with the 1976 hit single "Charlie" reaching the top of local charts.[1][2]
Rabbitt originated from The Conglomeration, a Johannesburg-based teen rock band in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The transition to Rabbitt marked a shift toward a more polished and ambitious sound, combining progressive rock influences from groups like Yes and Genesis with accessible pop melodies. Trevor Rabin took the lead as primary songwriter and frontman, contributing vocals, lead guitar, keyboards, and arrangements. Alongside him, Duncan Faure added vocals, keyboards, and rhythm guitar, while Ronnie Robot played bass and Neil Cloud was on drums. The band worked closely with music producer Patrick van Blerk, who helped sharpen their sound and expand their recording opportunities.[3]
Career and Success
Between 1975 and 1977, Rabbitt released three studio albums on the Jo’Burg label, two of which ("Boys Will Be Boys" and "A Croak and a Grunt in the Night") were also issued in the United States on the Capricorn Records label. Their music featured tight musicianship and ambitious production, with songs ranging from rockers like "Hard Ride" to emotive ballads like "Lifeline." Notably, their cover of Jethro Tull's "Locomotive Breath" showcased their progressive rock influences.
Their 1976 single "Charlie" became a nationwide hit, establishing the band as a household name in South Africa. Rabbitt's popularity resulted not only from their recorded work but also their captivating live performances which generated enthusiastic fan followings, often surrounded by fervent teenage fans displaying sessions of "Rabbittmania."[4]
Later Years and Legacy
The band disbanded in 1978 when Trevor Rabin left to pursue a solo career and eventually joined the progressive rock band Yes, with whom he achieved international acclaim in the 1980s and 1990s. Duncan Faure also embarked on a successful solo career and later joined the British band The Bay City Rollers.
Following their disbandment, the members maintained involvement in music and production. Rabbitt's influence remained strong within South Africa, remembered for their impact on the development of rock and progressive music in the country. Decades later, some members reunited for nostalgic performances and tours reconnecting with longtime fans.[5]
This page is based on this Wikipedia article Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.
