Kirkland Burke will bring us a host of information on many different subjects, along with info on some of our favorite recording artists and much more.
February 2011
The Gems who recorded on the Chess label from Chicago, IL.started out as The Lovettes however, there was a group by the same name out of California that recorded on the Carousel label. What they probably didn't know is there was a male Doo-Wop group on the east coast named the Gems who recorded back in the late 50's. The group began at John Marshall High School on Chicago's West Side, later Minnie Riperton who attended Hyde Park High School on the South Side was brought into the group by Raynard Minor.
Here for your listening pleasure is some 60s Chicago Soul Music. Enjoy!
Kirkland Burke
"Can't You Take A Hint" - The Gems
"I Can't Help Myself" - The Gems
"Love For Christmas" - The Gems - Minnie Riperton lead vocal
Here are some songs of praise you might not be familiar with along with a information about the little know Gospel label that was part of the Motown Records associated labels.
Kirkland Burke
"That's What He Is To Me" by The Wright Specials was recorded on Berry Gordy's Divinity Label #99004, it was actually recorded and released in 1961. Kim Weston was a member of this group. The flip-side was "Pilgrim of Sorrow". The Divinity label was active December 1961-May-1963. Artist who recorded on Divinity were The Wright Specials, The Gospel Stars and The Burnadettets.
That's What He Is To Me" by the Wright Specials - 1961 - Kim Weston was a member of this group.
"Ninety Nine And A Half Won't Do" - The Wright Specials
This recording is not on Divinity.
"Pilgrim of Sorrow" - Sam Cook - Not on the Divinity Label
