Members
Select a Wild Cherry band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Wild Cherry is an American band best known for merging the infectious grooves of funk with the raw energy of rock. Formed in 1970 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the group was helmed by Rob Parissi (vocals, guitar). The lineup that solidified their place in music history included Mark Ausec (keyboards), Bryan Bassett (guitar), Allen Wentz (bass), and Ronald Beitle (drums). Wild Cherry carved a niche in the genres of funk rock and disco, with their iconic track "Play That Funky Music" dominating both R&B and pop charts. Despite being often labeled as one-hit wonders, their sound left a lasting impression on the dance-oriented rock scene of the 1970s.
How to Sound Like Wild Cherry
Wild Cherry's music is characterized by bold, rhythmic grooves and a vibrant, energetic feel that bridges funk's danceable beats with rock's electric dynamism. The band's use of crisp, punchy guitar riffs often leaned on the sharp, clean tones of instruments like the Gibson Les Paul Custom and the Fender 1962 Stratocaster in Fiesta Red. These guitars, paired with the rhythmic precision of Ronald Beitle's drumming, crafted a sound that was both tight and groove-laden. The underlying bass lines provided by Allen Wentz added depth and a driving force that propelled their tracks into dancefloor anthems. The use of keyboards by Mark Ausec added a layer of harmonic richness, enhancing the band's blend of rock's edge with funk's soul. The result was a sound that was both electrifying and irresistibly danceable.
Discography
Get the Wild Cherry Sound
Want to sound like Wild Cherry? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
