Formed in Los Angeles in 1977, Player gained popularity as a live act during the heyday of the 1970s stadium rock era. They first went on the road in the fall of 1977 opening for Gino Vannelli, then Boz Scaggs, amongst others.
They developed a distinctive, edgy and melodic rock style that featured outstanding ensemble playing, beautiful harmonies and Beckett’s guitarwork.
Their biggest hit, "Baby Come Back", co-written and sung by Beckett, was released in late 1977 (and also covered by numerous artists), rose to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in January 1978 and was also a chart success internationally.
Their follow up single, "This Time I'm in It for Love", peaked at No. 10 the same year.
Among several notable accolades, Player was named Billboard's Best New Singles Artist of 1978. Eric Clapton invited them to open for him during his 1978 North American “Slow Hand” tour.
Beckett has written songs for other recording artists including Janet Jackson, Olivia Newton-John, The Temptations and Kenny Rogers and for films and television during the 1980s.
Player has released eight albums so far, with the most recent coming in 2018, the wryly titled, Baby Don’t Come Back.
Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, the band has maintained a successful recording and touring schedule. Since 2017, the band name is Peter Beckett’s Player. Ambrosia drummer Burleigh Drummond is the drummer in Player’s current lineup.
Official Website: PLAYER THE BAND
Official FB site:
PLAYER FB PAGE
