The Sapphires

The Sapphires, an American pop ensemble from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, were known for their soulful sound in the early 1960s. The group consisted of lead vocalist Carol Jackson and backing singers George Garner and Joe Livingston. They were discovered by producer Jerry Ross and signed with Swan Records, releasing their first single "Where Is Johnny Now" in 1963. Their breakthrough hit was "Who Do You Love," which peaked at number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1964. This song, written by Kenny Gamble, showcased their unique blend of Brill Building pop and Philly soul. The Sapphires later moved to ABC-Paramount, where they released more singles, such as "Gotta Have Your Love," which charted on the R&B Singles chart. Their music was characterized by emotive vocals and rich harmonies, leaving a lasting impact on the soul and pop music landscape.

The Sapphires' story is intertwined with several notable figures of the era, including Leon Huff and Thom Bell, who contributed to their recordings. Despite their early success, the group disbanded around 1966. Their legacy includes being part of a vibrant musical scene in Philadelphia during the 1960s, influencing future ensembles with their genre-blending style.