The Manhattans: Masters of Soul and R&B Harmony

The Manhattans are an American vocal group renowned for their smooth soul and sophisticated R&B harmonies. Formed in Jersey City, New Jersey, in the early 1960s, the group achieved major commercial success in the 1970s and 1980s, most notably with their multi-platinum crossover ballad Kiss and Say Goodbye.

Early career

The group originally formed in 1962 as the Dulcets, with a lineup featuring George "Smitty" Smith, Edward "Sonny" Bivins, Winfred "Blue" Lovett, Kenny "Wally" Kelley, and Richard "Ricky" Taylor. After a name change to The Manhattans, they signed with the Carnival label, releasing their debut single I Wanna Be (Your Everything) in 1964 and establishing their signature blend of doo-wop and soul.

Breakthrough

The Manhattans' national breakthrough arrived in 1976 after signing with Columbia Records. Their single Kiss and Say Goodbye, from the album of the same name, became a cultural phenomenon, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the R&B chart. The song was certified platinum and earned the group a Grammy nomination, solidifying their status as hitmakers.

Key tracks

Kiss and Say Goodbye — This 1976 platinum-selling single was the group's first pop number-one and remains their signature song.

Shining Star — A 1980 Grammy-winning R&B chart-topper that showcased their adaptability to the disco-infused sound of the era.

There's No Me Without You — This 1973 single was their first major R&B hit, peaking at number three and establishing their romantic ballad style.

Just One Moment Away — A later-career highlight from 1985, this track demonstrated their enduring vocal prowess on the adult contemporary charts.

The group navigated lineup changes, most notably the addition of lead singer Gerald Alston after George Smith's passing in 1970. They continued to score R&B hits throughout the 1980s, including Crazy and You Send Me, before entering a period of reduced recording activity while maintaining a loyal fan base through touring.

Fans of The Manhattans' harmonious soul sound also enjoy the music of The Stylistics, who similarly specialized in lush, romantic Philly soul ballads. The smooth vocal delivery of The Delfonics offers a comparable listening experience from the same era. The sophisticated R&B of The O'Jays shares a similar commitment to vocal harmony and social themes. For listeners drawn to timeless soul groups, The Spinners provide another classic catalog of impeccably arranged hits.

The timeless soul and R&B of The Manhattans maintains a permanent place on the playlists of classic soul FM stations and dedicated oldies radio formats. Their ballads are staples on stations celebrating the golden era of vocal group harmony, ensuring their music reaches both nostalgic listeners and new audiences discovering classic American soul.

The enduring music of The Manhattans, from their early soul roots to their chart-topping ballads, can be heard on radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover the rich vocal harmonies of this iconic American group by tuning into the classic soul and R&B radio stations available on onairium.com.