CLOUT were originally a five-piece, South African million-selling all-girl rock group formed in 1977, best known for their song "Substitute".
Clout was a South African all-female band formed in Johannesburg in 1977. The band consisted of Cindy Alter (vocals, guitar), Ingrid "Ingi" Herbst (keyboards), Glenda Millar (drums), Jenni Garson (bass), and Lee Tomlinson (guitar). Clout's music was a blend of pop and rock, with a touch of disco, and was characterized by strong vocal harmonies, catchy hooks, and danceable rhythms.
The band's breakthrough came in 1978 with their hit single "Substitute", a cover of a song originally recorded by the Righteous Brothers. "Substitute" topped the charts in South Africa and several other countries, including Germany, where it sold over a million copies. The song's success led to a tour of Europe and appearances on major television shows such as Top of the Pops and Musikladen.
Clout continued to release music throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, with several other hits including "Save Me", "Under Fire", and "Portable Radio". The band's success in Europe and South Africa earned them a devoted following, and they toured extensively during this period.
However, by the mid-1980s, Clout's popularity began to wane, and the band members went their separate ways. Alter went on to pursue a solo career and continued to release music throughout the 1990s and 2000s. In 2016, Alter and Herbst reunited to perform as Clout at a music festival in South Africa, and they have continued to perform together since then.
Despite their relatively short-lived career, Clout remains a notable band in the history of South African music and in the international pop scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their infectious pop-rock sound and memorable hits continue to resonate with audiences today, and their influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who have followed in their footsteps.
Throughout the 1970s, Clout's lineup underwent several changes, with members coming and going. Despite these changes, the band's core sound and identity remained intact, allowing them to create memorable music that left a lasting impact on the rock music landscape of the time.
Clout's 1979 vinyl single "Under Fire" encapsulates the band's fearless departure from the mainstream. With a fusion of rock elements and a captivating B-side, "Tom-Morrow," the single, housed in a visually striking picture sleeve, became a global phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
Learn moreClout's 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single, "You've Got All of Me," is a musical odyssey that transcends the boundaries of conventional singles. With its emotive lyrics, instrumental prowess, and captivating cover art,
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