If you’re a fan of soulful R&B music, then you surely must have heard of The Stylistics. Known for their beautiful harmonies and classic hits like “You Make Me Feel Brand New” and “Betcha by Golly, Wow,” this legendary group has been a mainstay in the music industry for over five decades now. While the band’s lineup has undergone several changes over the years, the soulful vocals that have defined their music have never wavered. So, who is the current lead singer of The Stylistics? The answer might just surprise you.
For those who may not know, The Stylistics underwent a major change in their lineup in 2000, when former member Russell Thompkins Jr. left the band and was replaced by none other than Eban Brown. Brown came on board with the formidable task of filling Thompkins’ shoes, but he was more than up to the task. In fact, many fans of the band have even remarked that Brown’s voice has breathed new life into classic Stylistics tracks, adding a fresh twist to timeless favorites.
And while Brown’s tenure as lead singer of The Stylistics may have seen a few bumps in the road, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to the band and their loyal fan base. Today, he continues to tour with the band, delivering stunning performances that rival those of the band’s heyday in the 1970s. So, if you’re looking to relive some of the magic of classic R&B music, head on down to a Stylistics concert, and experience the soulful vocals of Eban Brown for yourself.
History of The Stylistics
The Stylistics are a R&B vocal group that was formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1966 by schoolmates Russell Thompkins Jr., Airrion Love, James Smith, Herbie Murrell, and James Dunn. The group was known for their soulful ballads and lush vocal harmonies, and quickly rose to fame in the early 1970s, scoring ten consecutive top-ten hits on the R&B charts and nine top-ten hits on the pop charts.
- Their first hit single, “You’re a Big Girl Now,” was released in 1971 and reached number 7 on the R&B chart and number 73 on the pop chart.
- Their second single, “Stop, Look, Listen (To Your Heart),” was a duet with Motown legend Diana Ross and reached number 39 on the pop chart.
- Their highest-charting single, “Betcha by Golly, Wow,” reached number 2 on the R&B chart and number 3 on the pop chart in 1972.
The Stylistics were also known for their elaborate stage outfits and choreographed dance moves, and their live performances were highly sought after. However, the group began to experience internal conflicts in the mid-1970s, and several members left to pursue solo careers. The remaining members continued to record and tour, but their popularity waned in the 1980s.
Today, the group continues to tour with a lineup that includes original member Airrion Love and newer members Raymond Johnson, Greg Hill, and Freddie E. Williams II. While they may no longer dominate the charts like they did in the 1970s, The Stylistics remain an important part of the R&B and soul music canon, and their music continues to be beloved by fans around the world.
Band members of The Stylistics
The Stylistics are a legendary R&B/soul group that formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1966. Throughout their career, the group has gone through several lineup changes, but their signature sound has remained intact. Here are some of the key members of The Stylistics:
- Russell Thompkins Jr. – Lead Vocals (1966-2000, 2004-2018)
- Airrion Love – Second Tenor (1966-1980, 1989-2000, 2004-present)
- Herb Murrell – Baritone (1966-1972, 1973-1974, 1989-2000, 2004-present)
- James Smith – Second Tenor (1980-1989)
- Jason Sharp – Baritone (2018-present)
Russell Thompkins Jr. is perhaps the most well-known member of The Stylistics. He served as the lead vocalist for the group for over 30 years, and his distinctive high tenor voice became synonymous with the group’s sound. Despite leaving the group in 2000, Thompkins returned in 2004 and continued to tour with The Stylistics until his retirement in 2018.
Airrion Love and Herb Murrell have also been key members of the group since its inception. Love’s smooth, soulful vocals complemented Thompkins’ falsetto perfectly, while Murrell’s rich baritone helped anchor the group’s harmonies.
Other notable members of The Stylistics include James Smith, who served as the group’s second tenor in the 1980s, and Jason Sharp, who joined the group as a replacement for Thompkins in 2018. Despite the many changes the group has gone through over the years, The Stylistics have remained a beloved fixture on the R&B/soul scene.
| Name | Position | Years Active |
|---|---|---|
| Russell Thompkins Jr. | Lead Vocals | 1966-2000, 2004-2018 |
| Airrion Love | Second Tenor | 1966-1980, 1989-2000, 2004-present |
| Herb Murrell | Baritone | 1966-1972, 1973-1974, 1989-2000, 2004-present |
| James Smith | Second Tenor | 1980-1989 |
| Jason Sharp | Baritone | 2018-present |
Overall, The Stylistics have had a long and storied career with a talented group of musicians helping to shape their signature sound over the years.
Success of The Stylistics
The Stylistics are an American R&B group that originated in Philadelphia in the late 1960s. The success of the Stylistics is attributed to their soulful ballads and their signature falsetto vocals. With hits such as “You Are Everything,” “Betcha by Golly, Wow,” and “You Make Me Feel Brand New,” The Stylistics have become one of the most successful R&B groups of all time.
- The Stylistics had 12 consecutive top ten hits on the R&B charts in the 1970s
- They sold over 25 million records worldwide
- Their song “You Make Me Feel Brand New” was a #2 hit in the UK
The success of The Stylistics can be attributed to their unique sound and their ability to connect with their audience through their music. Their music resonated with people of all ages, races, and cultures. Their songs spoke to the human experience and the emotions that we all feel. The Stylistics were able to create a sound that was both timeless and universal, allowing them to remain relevant and popular over the years.
Today, the current lead singer of The Stylistics is Greg Hill. Hill joined the group in 1980 and has been the lead singer ever since. He has helped to keep the legacy of The Stylistics alive through his performances and recordings with the group. With Hill at the helm, The Stylistics continue to tour and perform to sold-out crowds around the world.
| Years Active | Hits | Awards |
|---|---|---|
| 1968-present | You Are Everything | Inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2004 |
| Betcha by Golly, Wow | ||
| You Make Me Feel Brand New |
The Stylistics continue to be popular today, and their music remains a staple of R&B and soul playlists around the world. Their timeless sound and meaningful lyrics will always resonate with fans, both old and new.
The Stylistics’ most popular songs
The Stylistics are a legendary R&B group that has been delighting audiences with their sweet soulful melodies for over five decades. Over the years, the band has released numerous hits that have become timeless classics. In this article, we will take a closer look and reminisce about some of their most popular songs
- You Make Me Feel Brand New – This soulful ballad is arguably one of The Stylistics’ most famous songs. Written by Thom Bell and Linda Creed, the song perfectly captures the essence of true love. Released in 1974, it quickly became a hit and climbed the charts in the UK and the US.
- People Make the World Go Round – Written by Thom Bell and Linda Creed, the song was released in 1972. It was again a hit and charted in the top 30 in the US and the UK. The song is a reflection on the trials and tribulations of society and the unshakable resolve of human beings to persevere even in the toughest of circumstances.
- Betcha by Golly, Wow – This classic love song was written by the legendary songwriting duo Thom Bell and Linda Creed. Released in 1972, it became an instant hit and cemented The Stylistics’ place in the annals of soul and R&B music. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and remains an all-time favourite amongst fans of the group.
The Stylistics’ chart-topping hits
The Stylistics have had numerous hits throughout their illustrious career, but some songs have stood out from the rest and made it to the top of the charts. Below are a few examples of their hits that have topped the charts in various countries.
| Song | Year | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Can’t Give You Anything (But My Love) | 1975 | UK |
| Betcha By Golly, Wow | 1972 | US |
| I’m Stone in Love with You | 1972 | US, UK |
| You Are Everything | 1971 | US, UK |
These hits exemplify The Stylistics’ ability to craft beautiful melodies and tell stories that touch the hearts of millions of people worldwide.
The Stylistics’ enduring legacy
The Stylistics have undoubtedly left their mark in the world of soul and R&B music. Their timeless classics continue to resonate with listeners even today, over 50 years after the group first formed. With their sweet harmonies and soulful melodies, The Stylistics have carved a special place in the hearts of music lovers the world over.
Importance of Lead Singers in Musical Bands
The lead singer of a band can make or break its success. A great lead singer can leave a lasting impact on the band’s audiences and fans. They are the face and voice of the music and can easily captivate the audience with their stage presence and charisma. A lead singer is considered as the “frontman” or “frontwoman” for the entire band and can make a significant contribution to its success.
- Creating a unique identity: A lead singer’s voice and style can help create a unique identity for the band. They can differentiate the band from other similar bands and leave an unforgettable impression on the audiences.
- Connecting with the audience: A good lead singer connects emotionally with the audience through their lyrics and live performances. They can make the audience feel their music and create an atmosphere that resonates with them.
- Marketing the band: In the music industry, a band’s lead singer is often the face and voice of the band, and they are responsible for promoting the band through interviews, public appearances, and media coverage.
Despite their importance, finding a great lead singer is a challenge for many bands. Many successful bands changed their lead singers multiple times until they found the right fit. In some cases, lead singers even went on to have more successful solo careers than the band they were once a part of.
Take, for example, The Stylistics, one of the most successful soul groups of the early 1970s. During their prime years, they were known for their soulful ballads and harmonious up-tempo hits. Their lead singer Russell Thompkins Jr. had a distinctive falsetto voice that captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. However, Russell left the group in the 2000s and was replaced by Harold Eban Brown, who also had a successful solo career. Harold has since become The Stylistics’ current lead singer and has continued to bring the group’s music to audiences worldwide.
| Band | Original Lead Singer | Current Lead Singer |
|---|---|---|
| The Rolling Stones | Mick Jagger | Mick Jagger |
| Queen | Freddie Mercury | Adam Lambert (since 2011) |
| Journey | Steve Perry | Arnel Pineda (since 2007) |
Many bands have successfully transitioned to new lead singers, while others struggled after the departure of their original lead singer. However, one thing remains constant – the importance of the lead singer in a band’s success. A great lead singer can capture the audience’s attention and leave a lasting impact, making them irreplaceable in the history of a band’s success.
Impact of Rotating Lead Singers in a Band
One of the most significant decisions a band can make is choosing its lead singer. It’s the person who represents the group and is the voice of their music. However, sometimes the original lead singer may leave the band for various reasons like creative differences, health issues, or other commitments. Once this happens, it becomes challenging for the band to find a replacement who can continue the legacy and fan following. This situation gives rise to a rotating lead singer concept. In this article, we will explore the impact of rotating lead singers in a band.
- Keeps the Band Fresh: With different lead singers, a band can experiment with new styles of music, genres, and audiences. This creative process refreshes the band, and fans enjoy the variation. It’s also an opportunity for the new lead singer to make their mark and showcase their talent.
- Maintains the Band’s Legacy: When an original lead singer leaves the group, it’s a significant loss. However, with a rotating lead singer concept, the band can continue without losing its identity. Famous bands like AC/DC, Van Halen, and Journey have used multiple lead singers to maintain their popularity after the departure of their original lead singer.
- Increases Fan Base: A rotating lead singer concept can attract new fans and audiences. Each lead singer brings a unique style, and their fan following will follow them to the band. The band can also bring new fans who appreciate different musical styles to expand its fan base.
Another aspect to consider with a rotating lead singer concept is the impact on the lead singer and the band’s performance.
Constant Pressure: The lead singer must perform every song with finesse and energy, given that they are replacing a legendary artist. It’s also an immense responsibility to maintain the band’s image and fan following.
| Band | Original Lead Singer | Rotating Lead Singer(s) |
|---|---|---|
| The Stylistics | Russell Thompkins Jr. | Jason Sharp (Current) |
| Journey | Steve Perry | Arnel Pineda |
| AC/DC | Brian Johnson | Axl Rose |
Fans Reaction: Fans of bands with a rotating lead singer concept may have mixed reactions. Some may dislike the new lead singer, while others may appreciate their style. It’s equally challenging for the new lead singer to perform under the scrutiny of fans and critics.
In conclusion, rotating lead singers in a band have their advantages and disadvantages. It’s an opportunity for the band to experiment with new styles and audiences. Original lead singers’ departure is inevitable, but this concept allows the band to maintain its identity and fan base. On the other hand, the lead singer must perform every song with finesse and energy and face the challenge of maintaining the band’s legacy and pleasing the fans.
Other popular bands with rotating lead singers
While some bands are synonymous with their lead singers, others have opted for a rotating lineup. This not only adds variety to their sound and style, but it also allows them to continue performing even when a lead vocalist decides to leave. Here are some popular bands with rotating lead singers:
- Journey – Known for hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Separate Ways,” and “Wheel in the Sky,” Journey has had three lead singers in its history. Steve Perry was the band’s most well-known frontman, but he left the band in 1998. He was replaced by Steve Augeri, who sang lead for the band until 2007. Today, Arnel Pineda is Journey’s lead vocalist.
- Alice in Chains – This Seattle-based band is known for its heavy guitar riffs and distinctive vocal harmonies. Since the death of original lead singer Layne Staley in 2002, Alice in Chains has had two different lead vocalists. First, they hired William DuVall in 2006 to sing on their comeback album, “Black Gives Way to Blue.” DuVall has since become a permanent member of the band, and he has recorded four studio albums with them to date.
- Foreigner – This classic rock band has had four different lead singers in its 40-year career. The band’s most well-known frontman was Lou Gramm, who sang lead on hits like “Hot Blooded,” “Juke Box Hero,” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.” After a falling out with the band’s founder, Mick Jones, Gramm was replaced by Kelly Hansen in 2005. Today, Hansen is still Foreigner’s lead vocalist.
Rotating lead singers can also be found in supergroups like Hollywood Vampires, which features Alice Cooper, Johnny Depp, and Joe Perry. The band has had several guest vocalists over the years, including Steven Tyler, and the rotating lineup keeps their live performances exciting and unpredictable.
If you’re a fan of bands with rotating lead singers, it’s always interesting to see who will step up next. Whether it’s a seasoned pro or a new face, a different singer can bring a fresh perspective to a band’s music and keep their sound evolving.
Who is the Current Lead Singer of The Stylistics?
Q: Who founded The Stylistics?
A: The Stylistics were founded in 1968 by Russell Thompkins Jr., Herb Murrell, Airrion Love, James Smith, and James Dunn.
Q: Who was the original lead singer of The Stylistics?
A: Russell Thompkins Jr. was the original lead singer of The Stylistics.
Q: Who is the current lead singer of The Stylistics?
A: The current lead singer of The Stylistics is Barrington “Bo” Henderson.
Q: When did Bo Henderson join The Stylistics?
A: Bo Henderson joined The Stylistics in 2000.
Q: Has Bo Henderson released any solo albums?
A: Yes, Bo Henderson has released several solo albums, including “The Basics of Love” and “Love Poems.”
Q: Does Bo Henderson tour with The Stylistics?
A: Yes, Bo Henderson tours with The Stylistics and has been a part of the group’s international tours.
Q: What are some of The Stylistics’ biggest hits with Barrington “Bo” Henderson as the lead singer?
A: Some of The Stylistics’ biggest hits with Bo Henderson include “People Make the World Go Round,” “You Are Everything,” and “Betcha by Golly, Wow.”
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for reading about The Stylistics and their current lead singer, Bo Henderson. We hope this article was informative and helpful. Make sure to come back for more updates on your favorite music artists!