RAK Records was one of Britain’s most successful independent pop and rock labels of the 1970s, becoming particularly associated with the infectious singles that helped define the decade. Founded by record producer Mickie Most in 1969, the London-based label built an impressive catalogue spanning glam rock, pop, soft rock and soul.
Most, born Michael Peter Hayes in 1938, had already established himself as one of Britain’s leading record producers before creating RAK Records. After an early performing career that included considerable success in South Africa, he returned to Britain and moved behind the mixing desk. During the 1960s he worked with artists including The Animals, Herman’s Hermits, Donovan, Lulu and Jeff Beck, developing a reputation for recognising songs with genuine hit potential.
RAK allowed Most to turn that instinct into his own record business. Rather than following the industry’s growing emphasis on albums, he continued to believe strongly in the power of the hit single.
That philosophy proved remarkably successful. Songwriters and producers Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman became closely associated with the label, helping create a succession of memorable 1970s records. Suzi Quatro and Mud were among RAK’s biggest glam-rock successes, while Hot Chocolate developed into one of Britain’s most enduring pop and soul groups. Smokie, Racey, Arrows, New World, Kenny and Chris Spedding were also associated with the label.
RAK continued producing hits into the following decade. Kim Wilde became one of its most important early-1980s artists after Mickie Most spotted her potential while she was singing backing vocals during a recording session. Her 1981 breakthrough “Kids in America” became an international success.
Most sold the RAK label and its master recordings to EMI in 1983, although he retained RAK Studios and other interests. His influence nevertheless remains firmly embedded in British popular music.
This RAK Records tag brings together songs and artists from the label featured on Rookie Writer, exploring the emotions, stories and life lessons behind records from one of Britain’s great hit-making labels.
Arrows’ “Touch Too Much” captures the intoxicating rush of attraction when desire begins to overwhelm common sense. This 1974 glam-rock hit explores temptation, passion and the irresistible pull of physical chemistry.