Missing intro, musical group provides backing (7)

I believe the answer is:

assists

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'provides backing' is the definition.
'assists' can be an answer for 'provides' (I've seen this before). I am not sure about the 'backing' bit.

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for assists that I've seen before include "Lends a hand" , "Helps or waits on" , "Contributes to success" , "Provides" , "Aids" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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