Many music fans know the hit song “How Long” by the British band Ace, but few are familiar with the talented members behind the group’s success.

The story of Ace is one of skilled musicians coming together to create a unique sound that left a lasting impact on the 1970s music scene.

In this blog post, we’ll examine the band members who made up Ace, exploring their backgrounds, contributions, and what made them stand out.

From Paul Carrack’s soulful vocals to the tight musicianship of Alan “Bam” King, Terry “Tex” Comer, and the rest of the lineup, we’ll uncover the secrets behind Ace’s rise to fame and the legacy they left behind.

Early Formation and Key Members of Ace

Ace’s story began in December 1972 when the band formed in Sheffield, England. Initially, they called themselves “Ace Flash and the Dynamos,” but soon shortened the name to “Ace.”

The group brought together skilled musicians from various professional bands, each adding their flavor to the mix.

At the heart of Ace was Paul Carrack, whose warm, soulful vocals would become a defining feature of the band’s sound.

Carrack and Terry “Tex” Comer had previously played with Warm Dust. Guitarist Alan “Bam” King brought his experience from Mighty Baby and The Action, a notable 1960s band.

Other key members included Phil Harris, Steve Witherington, Fran Byrne, and Jon Woodhead.

These talented musicians collaborated to create a unique blend of pop and funk that quickly gained popularity on the pub rock circuit. With their lineup in place, Ace was ready to make their mark on the music world.

Ace’s Musical Style and Initial Success

Ace’s music blended pub, pop, and soft rock, creating a familiar and fresh sound.

The band drew inspiration from various musical influences, fusing pop and funk elements to craft a style that resonated with audiences on the pub rock circuit.

Their unique sound was characterized by catchy melodies, tight harmonies, and Carrack’s distinctive vocals. Ace’s music had a warm, inviting quality that set them apart from other era bands.

In 1974, Ace released their debut album, “Five-A-Side.” The standout track was “How Long,” a song that Carrack wrote about Comer briefly leaving the band to play with the Sutherland Brothers and Quiver.

The song’s relatable lyrics and memorable melody struck a chord with listeners.

“How Long” became a top 20 hit in the UK and reached number three on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1975.

The song’s success propelled the band to new heights and established Ace as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

Changes and Challenges Faced by Ace 

As Ace continued to make music, the band experienced several line-up changes that would shape their sound and direction.

Before recording their debut album, “Five-A-Side,” drummer Fran Byrne, formerly of Bees Make Honey, replaced Steve Witherington. This change brought a new dynamic to the band’s rhythm section.

Later, before recording their third and final album, “No Strings,” Phil Harris departed the band, and Jon Woodhead took his place in June 1976.

These line-up changes added fresh perspectives and influences to Ace’s music, helping them evolve and grow as artists.

Ace moved to the United States to expand their reach and find new opportunities. However, this relocation presented its own set of challenges.

The band struggled to break into the American music scene and connect with new audiences.

Despite their best efforts, Ace struggled to maintain the momentum they had built in the UK.

The challenges of adapting to a new market and the pressure to succeed took a toll on the band, leading to internal tensions and creative differences.

Disbandment and Later Careers of Ace Band Members

In July 1977, after the release of their third album, “No Strings,” Ace disbanded. The decision came amidst the band’s challenges in the United States and the growing tensions within the group.

Despite the disappointment of the band’s end, the individual members of Ace went on to find success in their later careers.

Paul Carrack, Terry Comer, and Fran Byrne joined Frankie Miller’s backing band immediately after Ace’s disbandment.

Carrack’s talent as a vocalist and songwriter continued to shine, leading him to collaborate with several notable artists and bands.

Carrack’s later career included stints with Roxy Music, Squeeze, and Mike + The Mechanics, where he gained widespread recognition for his contributions.

He also enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing numerous albums and singles. In 1996, Carrack’s solo re-recording of “How Long” once again reached the top 40 in the UK charts, a testament to the enduring popularity of the song he had written over two decades earlier.

The other members of Ace also continued to make music and contribute their talents to various projects, leaving a lasting impact on the industry through their efforts.

Ace Band’s Legacy and Impact

Although Ace’s time in the spotlight was brief, the band left a lasting impact on the music world, particularly through their hit song, “How Long.”

The track’s success in the UK and the US helped bridge the gap between the pub rock scene and mainstream pop music.

“How Long” has since been recognized as a classic rock staple. Its timeless melody and relatable lyrics resonate with listeners across generations.

The song has been covered by numerous artists, a testament to its enduring popularity and influence.

Ace’s unique blend of the pub, pop, and soft rock helped pave the way for future bands and artists exploring similar musical styles.

Their ability to combine catchy hooks with heartfelt lyrics and skilled musicianship set a standard that many would follow.

The individual members of Ace, particularly Paul Carrack, continued to shape the music landscape through their later projects and collaborations.

Carrack’s distinctive voice and songwriting prowess became sought after in the industry, further cementing Ace’s legacy as a band that launched a remarkable talent.

While Ace’s career may have been short-lived, their impact on rock music and their influence on later artists cannot be overstated.

Conclusion

In exploring the story of Ace and its talented members, we’ve seen how a group of skilled musicians came together to create a sound that resonated with audiences and left a lasting impact on the music world.

From their early days in Sheffield to their brief but memorable time in the spotlight, Ace’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and the power of music to connect people across generations.

Although the band’s time together was short, their influence can still be felt today.

The enduring popularity of “How Long” and Paul Carrack’s continued success are testaments to Ace’s members’ talent and dedication.

As we look back on their legacy, we can’t help but appreciate the indelible mark they left on rock music history.