Back in the olden days—i.e. the 70s—it was not unheard of for pop groups to get their very own television show after hitting it big in the music business. It happened to the Jackson 5 and the Bay City Rollers when they became superstars so it was a reasonable progression of things. The three Hudson Brothers jumped the gun a bit, as they starred in a TV show and became pop sensations concurrently. Instant fame, no waiting.

The Hudson Brothers were all musical and started performing as a band while they were still teenagers. By the mid-60s they were recording their own original songs, though back then they were known as the New Yorkers (a little odd since they were from Oregon). After developing their music style for a few years, they attracted the attention of Bernie Taupin, a record producer and some times lyricist for Elton John. Taupin gave the brothers a recording contract with Rocket Records and promptly released  Totally Out of Control in 1973.  The following year, the Hudson brothers charmed the producers of The Sonny and Cher Show, who felt that the trio would thrive on the small screen. The Hudson Brothers Razzle Dazzle Comedy Show debuted in 1974, proving that the boys could do music and comedy.

The show became a big success and at the same time, the Hudson Brothers continued to record hits like “So You’re a Star” and “Rendezvous.” They were bona fide TV celebrities and appeared on Razzle Dazzle and other series throughout the 70s. Their music releases from this time included the albums Ba-Fa and Hollywood Situation, which were chock full of Top 40 hits.

Eventually the brothers moved on to other areas of the entertainment industry. Mark morphed into a record producer, working with bands like Aerosmith and Hanson; Brett stayed in the TV medium as a director; Bill dabbled in film production (and also spawned actress Kate Hudson).