NRBQ

NRBQ is a highly-acclaimed rock band, purveyors of a unique brand of "omnipop" since 1967. The abbreviation "NRBQ" stands for New Rhythm and Blues Quartet (originally Quintet), although a 1982 article in Creem ma

NRBQ is a highly-acclaimed rock band, purveyors of a unique brand of "omnipop" since 1967. The abbreviation "NRBQ" stands for New Rhythm and Blues Quartet (originally Quintet), although a 1982 article in Creem magazine suggested a different meaning: "Nothing Really Beats Quality". And though they can easily pack a nightclub or theater in most cities, the lack of "commercial" success has led many fans to lament that "NRBQ" could also mean "No Records Bought in Quantity."

The band's music, a rollicking blend of everything from stomping rockabilly to Beatles-influenced pop to Thelonious Monk-inspired jazz, has attracted fans as diverse as Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello, Keith Richards and Penn and Teller. NRBQ songs have inspired cover versions by Bonnie Raitt, Los Lobos, and Dave Edmunds, among many others. In addition, they served as the unofficial "house band" for The Simpsons for the season 10-12 period in which NRBQ fan Mike Scully was head writer and executive producer, contributing several songs and even appearing in animated form during one episode.