The Classic Group of the R&B 70’s ‘ The Manhattans’

June 30, 2024 4

The Manhattans were one of those classic R&B vocal groups known for their remarkable career longevity, adapting their style to fit the changing times. Formed in the ’60s as a doo-wop-influenced R&B quintet, the Manhattans transitioned into smooth soul balladeers in the ’70s. Despite the death of lead singer George Smith, they rose to even greater popularity with new frontman Gerald Alston, achieving a number one hit across all charts in 1976 with “Kiss and Say Goodbye.” Under the leadership of Winfred “Blue” Lovett, who also wrote many of their biggest hits, the Manhattans remained a chart-topping act well into the ’80s.

The group originated in Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1962, centered around lead singer George “Smitty” Smith and bass vocalist Winfred “Blue” Lovett. The original lineup also included Kenny Kelley, Richard Taylor, and Edward “Sonny” Bivins, who co-wrote material with Lovett. In 1964, they signed with the Newark-based Carnival label and began working with producer Joe Evans. Their first hit came in early 1965 with “I Wanna Be (Your Everything),” reaching number 12 on the R&B charts and showcasing their ballad style. Between 1965 and 1967, they released eight singles with Carnival, most of which made the R&B Top 30, valued by vocal-group soul collectors for their harmonies and Smith’s passionate leads.

In 1969, the Manhattans signed with DeLuxe Records, releasing several singles in 1970. After Smith fell ill and subsequently passed away in 1971, Gerald Alston joined as the new lead vocalist, bringing a smoother, more pop-friendly sound. This shift was evident when the Lovett-penned “One Life to Live” hit the R&B Top Five in late 1972, their first major hit. Moving to Columbia Records in 1973, their debut single “There’s No Me Without You” also reached number three on the R&B charts. Collaborating with producer Bobby Martin, their music adopted the lush, string-laden style of ’70s soul. They had more Top Ten R&B hits with “Don’t Take Your Love” (1974) and “Hurt” (1975), but their greatest success came in 1976 with “Kiss and Say Goodbye,” which became a platinum single and topped both the R&B and pop charts.

The Manhattans continued their success with several Top Ten R&B hits into 1978, becoming staples on the quiet storm radio format. Their momentum waned slightly but surged again in 1980 with “Shining Star,” a co-write by producer Leo Graham, which became a Top Five hit on both the pop and R&B charts, went gold, and won a Grammy. Their last major hit was “Crazy” in 1983, and they reached the R&B Top Five for the final time. After Richard Taylor left in 1985, the group continued as a quartet. Gerald Alston embarked on a solo career in 1988, leading to the group’s departure from Columbia and a brief stint with Valley Vue label before disbanding.

Alston and Lovett reunited in 1993, adding new members Troy May and David Tyson, and continued touring into the new millennium, occasionally releasing recordings on small labels. In 2021, they released “The Legacy Continues,” one of the last projects for David Tyson, who passed away on February 17, 2022.

You can hear The Manhattans on both Seductively Silky Radio and Seductive Vibes Radio