The Dells were an American R&B vocal group renowned for their rich harmonies and dynamic performances. Formed in 1952 in Harvey, Illinois, they began their journey as a doo-wop group under the name The El-Rays but achieved fame after renaming themselves The Dells in 1953. The original lineup consisted of Marvin Junior, Verne Allison, Mickey McGill, Chuck Barksdale, and Johnny Funches (who was later replaced by Johnny Carter). With a career spanning nearly six decades, The Dells carved out a distinguished place in the pantheon of American music, earning accolades for their longevity and artistic evolution.

Known for their soul-stirring ballads and smooth, choreographed stage shows, The Dells' sound was a blend of soul, doo-wop, and later, uptown soul and disco. Their discography boasts timeless hits, including the classic "Oh What a Night," which charted twice in two different versions, and "Stay in My Corner," which showcased the group's powerful vocal harmonies. Remarkably, for a group that weathered the constant metamorphosis of music trends, The Dells sustained success from the doo-wop era well into the contemporary music scene of the 1990s and beyond. Albums like "At Their Very Best" and "The Dells Live" celebrate their rich musical legacy, ensuring their soulful sound is passed down through generations. Recognized by peers and critics alike, The Dells were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, cementing their legacy as R&B icons.

Genres

Chicago Soul

Classic Soul

Disco

Funk

Quiet Storm

Soul

Southern Soul

Related Artists

The Temptations

The Stylistics

The O'Jays

The Spinners

Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes

The Delfonics

The Impressions

The Dramatics

The Chi-Lites

The Isley Brothers

The Whispers

Earth, Wind & Fire

Latest Release

Dance, Dance, Dance

The Dells

Album - 12 Tracks - Released March 24, 2023