Arlester "Dyke" Christian Dies

Dyke & the Blazers is a former American funk band.

The Buffalo band Dyke & the Blazers picked up on the rhythms, bass and organ innovations of James Brown's band and released "Funky Broadway - Part I" in 1967, the first black dance single with the name "Funky" in the title. "Funky Broadway" was later covered by Wilson Pickett, resulting in a #1 R&B hit.

Originally from Buffalo, New York, the band got stranded in Phoenix, Arizona while backing the O'Jays. "Funky Broadway" was inspired by the club scene present at the time on Broadway Road in Phoenix.

Frontman and vocalist Arlester "Dyke" Christian (born June 13, 1943, Buffalo, New York) was shot to death March 13, 1971, at the height of the band's success. The grooves were put down by future Charles Wright and Bill Withers drummer James Gadson. The bassist was John White. The lead guitarist was Donnie Stokes from Louisville, Kentucky.

Dyke And the Blazers is inducted to the Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame.

Frontman and vocalist Arlester "Dyke" Christian (born June 13, 1943, Buffalo, New York) was shot to death on March 13, 1971, at the height of the band's success. The members of the group include drummer James Gadson, who went on to perform with Charles Wright and Bill Withers, bassist John White, and lead guitarist Donnie Stokes from Louisville, Kentucky.

On March 13, 1971, tragedy struck when Christian was shot and killed by an unstable man in the street in Phoenix, Arizona.