Johnnie Wilder Jr., an Ohio native and United States Army veteran who served in Vietnam, was one hell of a musician and vocalist. He and his brother formed a band while in the service touring in Europe, and once discharged he brought on board several Europeans, including the incomparable Rod Temperton who would write hits for the band and later for other artists, including Michael Jackson. The star-crossed band Heatwave was born, a blend of disco and funk, and the song Boogie Nights was their first hit. Temperton’s lyrics were fun and frivolous, and the beat was energetic and entirely danceable.
Boogie Nights: Warriors 112, Clippers 94
