Dells Vinyl Records Lps For Sale

Check out these new and used Dells vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Dells vinyl collection with the essential albums I Touched A Dream, Love Is Blue and Freedom Means. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from soul r&b musicians.

Exploring the Soulful Sounds of The Dells

The Dells: Pioneers of Soul and R&B

The Dells, a legendary vocal group hailing from Harvey, Illinois, rose to prominence in the 1950s and became one of the most influential acts in the realm of soul and R&B music. With their smooth harmonies, captivating performances, and timeless hits, The Dells left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning them a place among the greatest vocal groups of all time. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the rich history of The Dells, explore their iconic albums, and examine their enduring influence on the world of music.

Origins and Early Years

The Dells originated from the vibrant music scene of Harvey, Illinois, where childhood friends Marvin Junior, Verne Allison, Mickey McGill, Chuck Barksdale, and Johnny Funches came together to form a vocal quintet. Initially known as The El-Rays, the group honed their skills by performing at local venues and talent shows, gradually gaining recognition for their impeccable harmonies and dynamic stage presence.

Albums by The Dells

“Oh, What a Night” (1959)

Released in 1959, “Oh, What a Night” marked The Dells’ debut album and showcased their signature blend of doo-wop and R&B. The album featured hit singles like “Oh, What a Night,” “Jo-Jo,” and “Why Do You Have to Go?” With its infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics, “Oh, What a Night” established The Dells as rising stars in the world of soul music and earned them widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike.

“There Is” (1968)

“There Is,” released in 1968, represented a turning point in The Dells’ career, marking their transition from doo-wop to soul and R&B. The album featured soulful ballads like “Stay in My Corner,” “Always Together,” and “Does Anybody Know I’m Here?” With its lush orchestration and emotive vocals, “There Is” became a landmark album for The Dells, cementing their status as one of the premier vocal groups of the era.

“Freedom Means” (1971)

“Freedom Means,” released in 1971, showcased The Dells’ versatility and musical maturity, with the group exploring themes of love, freedom, and social justice. The album featured tracks like “Freedom Means,” “I Want My Momma,” and “Love Is Blue.” With its powerful messages and soul-stirring performances, “Freedom Means” resonated with audiences and solidified The Dells’ reputation as musical trailblazers.

Similar Bands

The Impressions

The Impressions, a soul and R&B group from Chicago, shared similarities with The Dells in their smooth harmonies, socially conscious lyrics, and soulful melodies. Both groups were pioneers of the Chicago soul sound and left an indelible mark on the music industry with their timeless hits and captivating performances.

The Temptations

The Temptations, known for their impeccable harmonies and dynamic stage presence, drew inspiration from The Dells’ innovative approach to soul and R&B music. With their chart-topping hits and electrifying live performances, The Temptations carried on The Dells’ legacy while forging their own path in the world of Motown and soul music.

Bands Influenced by The Dells

The Stylistics

The Stylistics, a soul and R&B group from Philadelphia, drew influence from The Dells’ smooth harmonies and romantic ballads. With their silky-smooth vocals and sophisticated arrangements, The Stylistics paid homage to The Dells’ timeless sound while carving out their own niche in the world of soul music.

The Chi-Lites

The Chi-Lites, known for their lush harmonies and socially conscious lyrics, were influenced by The Dells’ soulful melodies and heartfelt performances. With their chart-topping hits and dynamic stage presence, The Chi-Lites carried on The Dells’ legacy while making their mark on the Chicago soul scene.

Conclusion

The Dells’ contribution to the world of soul and R&B music is unparalleled, with their smooth harmonies, soulful melodies, and timeless hits earning them a place among the greatest vocal groups of all time. As we celebrate their legacy, we honor their pioneering spirit, musical innovation, and enduring influence on generations of artists and fans alike. From their humble beginnings in Harvey, Illinois, to their rise to prominence on the global stage, The Dells remain a shining example of musical excellence, reminding us of the power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all.