Major Lance was a prominent figure in the Chicago soul scene during the 1960s, best known for his smooth voice and infectious dance hits that blended R&B with a light, pop-friendly sound. Born April 4, 1939, in Winterville, Mississippi, Major Lance moved to Chicago as a child, where he eventually became a part of the thriving local music community. He began his career as a featured dancer on a local TV dance show, but it wasn't long before his musical talents were recognized, leading him to try his hand as a recording artist.

Major Lance's breakthrough came with his 1963 hit, "The Monkey Time," produced by the legendary Carl Davis. The track established Lance's dance-oriented charm and drew national attention, with his follow-up single, "Um, Um, Um, Um, Um, Um," cementing his place as a consistent hitmaker. Lance’s effortless charisma and lively stage shows made him a popular performer, while his collaboration with songwriter Curtis Mayfield resulted in a string of hits that defined the style known as the "Chicago Sound." Although his chart presence dimed in the 1970s, Lance enjoyed a revival in the UK where he was embraced by the Northern Soul movement. His music, including selections from his later releases like "Brunswick Essentials" and the remastered "Wild and Free," continues to resonate with fans of classic soul and R&B, reflecting his enduring legacy as an influential artist of the era. Major Lance passed away on September 3, 1994, but his music still scores the hearts of those who cherish the timeless appeal of Chicago soul.

Genres

Chicago Soul

Northern Soul

Latest Release

Brunswick Essentials

Major Lance

Ep - 6 Tracks - Released July 9, 2021