The Spinners: Classic Soul Music

The Spinners is an American soul music vocal group formed in 1954 in Detroit, Michigan. They are best known for their hits like “I’ll Be Around” and “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love”. The original members included Robert “Bobby” Smith, Henry Fambrough, Pervis Jackson, Billy Henderson and Philippe Wynne.

Early Career

The Spinners first began performing together as a doo-wop group in high school. After winning a talent show in 1959, they were signed to Motown Records and released their first single “That’s What Girls Are Made For” which reached number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 1961, they released their second single “Truly Yours” which peaked at number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Breakthrough Success

In 1972, the group had their breakthrough hit with “I’ll Be Around” which reached number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. This was followed by several other hit singles including “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love” (number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100), “Then Came You” (number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100) and “Working My Way Back to You/Forgive Me Girl” (number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100).

Later Career and Collaborations

The Spinners continued to have success throughout the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “Games People Play” and “Cupid/I’ve Loved You for a Long Time”. They also collaborated with artists like Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner and Stevie Wonder. In 1982, lead singer Philippe Wynne left the group and was replaced by John Edwards. The group disbanded in 2003 due to health issues but reunited in 2004 with new lead singer Charlton Washington.

Legacy

The Spinners are one of the most successful soul groups of all time and are credited for bringing sophisticated arrangements to R&B music. They have sold over 25 million records worldwide and have been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Vocal Group Hall of Fame. They are also recognized as one of the greatest Motown acts of all time.