Post by Motorcity on Jul 11, 2004 0:13:19 GMT -5
The original Originals began as a quartet:
Joe Stubbs was a one time fifth member who left the group following 1966.
Gaines and Spencer had been with Berry Gordy since 1957 as part of the Five Stars while Gorman was a writer turned session singer turned solo artist for Gordy's Miracle label in 1961. Gorman was also part of a production team.
From 1965 through 1969, they were Motown's premiere option as male background singers. They backed Little Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Jimmy Ruffin, Shorty Long and even some of the "girl" groups.
Marvin Gaye is responsible for bringing the Originals from session singers to recognition. He penned and produced their first R&B number one hit, "Baby, I'm For Real". On this and their following hit, "The Bells", their harmonies were as tight as ever!
The group remained at Motown for six more years until they left the label in 1976.
