R&B funk group evolved from the Castelles. Led by drummer Danny Rogers, members included Dwight Fulton (vocals), Kevin Oliver (guitar ex-Dynamite 5), Rodney ‘Skeet’ Curtis (bass -United Chair, The Grand Jury), Derek Brooks (keyboards), and Tony Hamilton (percussion & vocals). Dennis Chambers (drums). Oliver was later replaced with Quentin Irving.
Hot Ice was a frequent performer for many Operation Champ neighborhood festivals.
Hot Ice photos courtesy of Dennis Chambers
The group started hosting and performing jam sessions in the pavilion at Druid Hill Park, but were stopped for not having a permit. Danny aka ‘Chubby’ obtained the necessary permit. With his connections at the local festivals, he was able to arrange for a portable stage, and PA equipment from Jericho Sound. They started a tradition of live music concerts in several of the city parks. This was the origination of the Stone Soul Picnic in the Park events at Druid Hill Park, and the original Soul Festival that later evolved to become the Black Heritage Festival. In addition to Hot Ice performing they brought in many other local groups including Crosswinds, Lycindiana (later known as Starpoint)…
Hot Ice doubled as Magic Force on Julius Brockington’s Burman singles and recorded an unreleased funk album with Julius at Flite 3 Studios.
In 1975 Hot Ice merged with the Uncle Remus Horns to become known as Uncle Remus (see bio).
Brooks later wrote music for ‘80s WJZ-TV program “City Line.”
