Most of the time band and vocal groups would come together by a series of events that are usually orchestrated by a lead member, or a couple of members bringing in others. It was not uncommon, especially in 60's for soul and R & B groups to be brought together. by record executives.
General Johnson had a couple of regional hits as lead singer of The Showmen in the early 60's. In 1967, the writing team of Dozer/Holland/Dozer left Motown to start up their own record label. Invictus/Hot Wax was in need of a top name to head the label, so they brought in Johnson, who had not had a lot of luck in the previous few years attempting a solo career, to start a group. He was paired with Eddie Custis, Danny Woods, and Harrison Kennedy to create Chairmen of the Board.
All four members shared lead vocals, but it was Johnson's voice that was distinctive and set the group apart from others. Their biggest years on the charts was in 1970 and 71, with "Give Me Just A Little More Time" being the best of the bunch. The group continued to record and tour up to Johnson's death in the fall of 2010.
General Johnson had a couple of regional hits as lead singer of The Showmen in the early 60's. In 1967, the writing team of Dozer/Holland/Dozer left Motown to start up their own record label. Invictus/Hot Wax was in need of a top name to head the label, so they brought in Johnson, who had not had a lot of luck in the previous few years attempting a solo career, to start a group. He was paired with Eddie Custis, Danny Woods, and Harrison Kennedy to create Chairmen of the Board.
All four members shared lead vocals, but it was Johnson's voice that was distinctive and set the group apart from others. Their biggest years on the charts was in 1970 and 71, with "Give Me Just A Little More Time" being the best of the bunch. The group continued to record and tour up to Johnson's death in the fall of 2010.
