Enchantment
Enchantment is an American soul and R&B vocal group that originated in Detroit, Michigan. The group was formed in 1966 during their time at Pershing High School, with key members including Emanuel "EJ" Johnson, Joe "Jobie" Thomas, Bobby Green, Edgar "Mickey" Clanton, and David Banks. Johnson, the lead singer, is visually impaired but has been noted for his powerful vocal abilities, which contributed significantly to the group's distinctive sound.
The band began to gain notoriety in the late 1960s. Their breakthrough came in 1976 with the release of the album "Enchantment," which included hits like "Gloria" and "Sunshine." Their music is characterized by a smooth blend of soul and R&B, often featuring lush harmonies and romantic themes that resonated with listeners.
Throughout the 1970s and into the 1980s, Enchantment enjoyed commercial success, releasing several albums and singles that charted on various music lists. Their style incorporated influences from funk and soul, and they became known for their melodious and smooth sound.
Despite shifts in the music industry and changes in personnel over the years, including Jobie Thomas' departure to form his own version of the group, Enchantment has maintained a presence in the music scene. They have continued to perform and release music into the 21st century, adapting to changes in musical tastes while staying true to their roots in soul and R&B. The group's legacy is evident in their influence on the genre and their continued appreciation among fans of soul and R&B music. I
Enchantment
A2 Gloria 5:20
A3 Dance To The Music 4:00
A4 Sexy Lady 3:00
B1 Come On And Ride 4:16
B2 My Rose 4:28
B3 Sunshine 4:40
B4 Thank You Girl For Loving Me
Written by Emanuel Johnson, Michael Stokes
Label: United Artists Records – UA-LA682-G
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1976
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Sweet Soul
Enchantment's self-titled 1976 debut album is praised as a strong, classic soul/R&B record, showcasing the group's vocal talent with standout singles like "Gloria" and "Sunshine," alongside deep cuts like the funk track "Hold On," with reviewers highlighting its lush arrangements, diverse styles (sweet soul, funk, disco), and timeless quality that defied the disco era's rise.
The album is noted for its intricate harmonies, masterful lead vocals (especially E.J. Johnson's tenor), and rich instrumentation, making it a highly recommended staple of 70s soul.
The group was one of the last great "sweet soul" acts, blending the polished sound of Motown with Philly soul, notes Allmusic.
Reviewers emphasize the exceptional vocal versatility and harmonies, with E.J. Johnson's powerful tenor leading many tracks. "Gloria" (R&B #5) and "Sunshine" (R&B #3) were major successes, proving their chart power.
Tracks range from romantic ballads ("My Rose") and funk grooves ("Hold On") to sensual R&B ("Sexy Lady") and disco, creating a varied and magical listening experience, according to this Amazon review.
Despite the emergence of disco, the album's quality soul/R&B sound is considered non-dated and highly enduring.
In summary, Enchantment's debut is celebrated as a high-quality, essential soul album, praised for its tight musicianship, standout singles, and consistent quality from start to finish, solidifying their place in 70s soul music history.