The Esquires
The Esquires were a prominent American R&B and soul group originating from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They were active primarily from 1957 until 1976 and are best known for their contributions to the genre during that time.
The group was initially formed in 1957 and centered around the Moorer family, comprising Gilbert Moorer Jr., Alvis Moorer, and their cousin Betty Moorer. This family connection was crucial in establishing the group's foundation, and they began to develop their unique sound in the local music scene.
The Esquires' music blended elements of R&B and soul, and they became known for their harmonious vocals and engaging performances. They played a significant role in the Milwaukee music scene during the late 1950s and 1960s, gaining local fame and recognition due to their well-crafted songs and engaging stage presence.
Throughout their active years, The Esquires produced several recordings that contributed to their legacy in the R&B genre. However, specific details regarding their discography, hit singles, and broader achievements during their career are not included in the available information.
Discography Highlights:- Albums: Get on Up and Get Away (1967). Singles: "Get on Up" (1967); "And Get Away" (1967); "You've Got the Power" (1968); "Girls in the City" (1971). he group continued to perform and record sporadically through the 1970s, with a final charting release, "Get on Up '76," in 1976.
While the complete details of their career and achievements are limited, The Esquires are remembered as a significant part of Milwaukee's musical history and the evolution of soul music in America. Their influence and contributions to the R&B scene during their active years leave a lasting impression on music history.
Get On Up And Get Away
Written-By – Bill Sheppard, Gilbert Moorer
2:40
A2 Listen To Me
Written-By – Bill Sheppard, Gilbert Moorer
2:25
A3 How Was I To Know
Written-By – Gilbert Moorer
2:10
A4 Groovin
Written-By – Ed Brigati, Felix Cavaliere
2:25
A5 Everybody's Laughing
Written-By – Bill Sheppard, Gilbert Moorer, M. Edwards
2:45
A6 How Could It Be
Written-By – Gilbert Moorer
2:27
B1 Get On Up
Written-By – Bill Sheppard, Gilbert Moorer
2:25
B2 My Sweet Baby
Written-By – Gilbert Moorer
2:45
B3 No Doubt About It
Written-By – Alvis Moorer, Gilbert Moorer, Sam Pace
2:35
B4 Woman
Written-By – A. Russell, O. C. Perkins
2:20
B5 When I'm Ready
Written-By – Bill Sheppard, M. Edwards
2:20
B6 Things Won't Be The Same
Written-By – Calvin Edmonds, Charles Smith
2:15
Label: Bunky Records Inc. – BS 300
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1967
The Esquires' 1967 debut album, Get On Up And Get Away, is a classic Chicago soul LP capturing the group's vibrant harmonies and upbeat sound, featuring their major hits "Get On Up" and "And Get Away," showcasing rich vocals and sweet, swinging Chi-Soul grooves produced by Bill "Bunky" Sheppard for Bunky Records. It's a definitive release of melodic, joyful soul from the late 1960s, highlighting the group's knack for both hits and lesser-known gems.
Quintessential Chicago Soul, blending smooth harmonies with deep, heartfelt vocals and catchy, danceable rhythms, noted for its "Chi-soul groove". Includes the massive breakthrough single "Get On Up" (a Top 10 R&B hit) and its follow-up, "And Get Away," alongside other excellent tracks. Masterfully produced by the legendary Bill "Bunky" Sheppard, giving it that distinct Chicago sound.
The album features the group's impressive vocal range, from soaring falsetto to deep bass, creating a rich tapestry of sound, and represents the group's peak, showcasing their bright, joyful beginning and influencing later groups like The Chi-Lites.
Notable Hits: The title tracks, "Get On Up" and "And Get Away," were major successes; "Get On Up" peaked at #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on the R&B charts in 1967.
In essence, Get On Up And Get Away is a top-notch soul LP, celebrated for its pure, shining melodies and timeless harmonies that defined a significant era of soul music.