How Did Average White Band Get Their Name?

The Average White Band (AWB) is a Scottish funk and R&B band formed in 1972. The origin of their name can be traced back to a remark made by a friend of the band’s original drummer, Robbie McIntosh. Reportedly, while rehearsing for a gig in Dundee, Scotland, the band members took a break and were discussing potential names for the group. At that moment, a friend of McIntosh’s, who happened to be in the room, made a comment about the band being “the average white band.“ The remark was meant humorously, referring to the fact that the band’s members were predominantly white and played predominantly black music genres such as funk and R&B. The members found the name amusing and decided to embrace it, realizing that it had a memorable quality to it. Thus, they adopted “Average White Band“ as their official name. It also represented their intention to challenge the stereotypes associated with race and musical genres, demonstrating their dedication to producing s