War was a multiracial, multicultural American funk band of the 1970s from Southern California, known for the hit song "Low Rider". Formed in 1969, War was the first and most successful musical crossover, fusing elements of rock, funk, jazz, Latin music, R&B, and even reggae. The band also transcended racial and cultural barriers with a multi-ethnic line-up. The band's diverse musical influences have made it an enduring influence, one that has sold nearly 25 million records to date. Although War's lyrics are often socio-political in nature, their music usually had a laid-back, California funk vibe. The music has been sampled and covered by many contemporary artists, ranging from Janet Jackson to Korn to TLC.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_%28band%29