THE SPINNERS
It should come as no surprise that The Spinners have always made timeless music. Their classic group sound and approach never loses its universal appeal. Throughout the years they have acquired twelve (12) gold records with hits on top of both Pop and R&B charts and they are one of the few groups who can boast of four lead singers. Today, original members Bobbie Smith, and Henry Fambrough are joined onstage by lead singer Charlton Washington, high tenor Harold “Spike” Bonhart and a soul-infused 5-piece band.
In 1972, The Spinners signed with Atlantic Records and teamed up with producer Thom Bell, setting into motion an amazing recording career. The mighty Spinners have six Grammy nominations and have performed twice during the awards ceremony. They received a Black Gold Award from Dick Clark for their many achievements in the recording industry, and they have been awarded the Rhythm and Blues Foundation Award for their contribution to R & B. Today, this legendary R & B group maintains a full touring schedule, performing for fans of all ages in sold out houses around the world.
THE MANHATTANS
Taking their name from the popular mixed drink, the Manhattans began their legendary musical journey after being spotted at Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater. They placed third in the competition, but their undeniable musical star power earned them their first recording contract. Joe Evans, a former Motown musician, had just started Carnival Records and eagerly signed the Manhattans. It didn’t take long before their first major hit “ I Wanna Be (Your Everything)” broke onto the Pop and R&B charts, and the hits just kept on coming with both “Searching For My Baby” and “Follow Your Heart” selling records by the hundreds of thousands.
Throughout the decades, with one enduring song after another, this exalted super group continues to leave their mark on the world- touring the globe, playing numerous charity events and making appearances at lofty, high profile festivities such as former President Clinton’s Christmas Gala. Original Founding Member Edward “Sonny” Bivins continues to preserve the integrity of this priceless musical gem and has gathered the vocal styling of Charles Hardy, Harsey Hemphill, Alvin Pazant and Lee Williams to complete the modern lineup, and seek out new horizons. They continue to record and perform songs with melodies and harmonies that few of us will ever forget. And they will carry forth the musical tradition of the Manhattans for generations to come.