The Hesitations
The Hesitations were an influential vocal group from Cleveland, Ohio, formed in 1965 and known for their soulful renditions of popular melodies. They gained prominence in the late 1960s, particularly with their hit single "Soul Superman," which marked their entry into the music industry and allowed them to venture into album production thereafter.
Their distinctive sound is characterized by a blend of Rhythm and Blues, Soul, Jazz, and Blues, showcasing their vocal strengths and musical versatility. The group included members such as George Hendricks on vocals, among others, and they were noted for their ability to infuse soulful elements into mainstream pop music.
One of their most well-received albums is "The New Born Free," released in 1968, which features tracks like "I've Gotta Find Her" and "Love Is Everywhere." These songs represent the group's style effectively, combining rich harmonies with catchy melodies.
After one of the groups singers George "King" Scott was accidentally shot and killed in February 1968, the group disbanded. The Hesitations regrouped in 2006 with new members and began performing and recording once again. Members included brothers George and Charles Scott, Fred Deal, Robert Sheppard, Arthur Blakely, Phillip Dorroh, and Leonard Veal.
Overall, The Hesitations are remembered for their contributions to the Soul genre and the impact they had during their active years in the music scene.
The New Born Free
Written By – Black-Barry
2:37
A2 Overworked And Underpaid
Written By – Poindexter-Harper-Poindexter
2:59
A3 Love Is Everywhere
Written By – Poindexter-Lewis-Poindexter
2:29
A4 We Only Have One Life
Written By – Poindexter-Harper-Members
3:09
A5 Let's Groove
Written By – Banks-Bates
2:34
A6 I've Gotta Find Her
Written By – Carter-Banks
2:20
B1 I Wish It Could Be Me
Written By – Colson-Poindexter-Poindexter
2:41
B2 Push A Little Bit Harder
Written By – Banks-Bates
2:43
B3 Don't Go
Written By – Bennett-Banks
2:45
B4 I Believe In Love
Written By – Smith-Dorroh-Blakey
2:34
B5 Without Your Love
Written By – Banks-Robinson
2:35
B6 We Can Do It
Written-By – Larry Banks
2:30
Label: Kapp Records – KL-1548
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1968
Genre: R&B Soul, Blues
Style: Sixties Soul
The New Born Free is The Hesitations' 1968 album, a significant release in 60s Soul and R&B, known for its powerful group harmonies, spiritual undertones (especially in their civil rights-infused "Born Free"), and inclusion of original material alongside unique takes on familiar songs, showcasing their talent for sophisticated group soul and Northern Soul, often paired with their Where We're At album on modern compilations for a rich collection of their work.
Features their hit "Born Free" alongside other notable tracks like "Overworked & Underpaid," and "I Wish I Could Be Me." The album is frequently cited by collectors as one of the group's strongest works, particularly for the title track's vocal arrangement. The sessions featured prominent Motown "Funk Brothers" musicians, assembled by Jack Ashford and Shelley Haims.
It represents the peak of the group's sound, often bundled with their Where We're At album on CD reissues, offering a comprehensive look at their excellent 1960s output. Original vinyl pressings can often be found through collectors' marketplaces like Discogs or Dusty Groove.
In essence, The New Born Free captures The Hesitations at their best, delivering soulful, harmony-driven tracks that are both commercially appealing and socially conscious, making it a cherished piece of 60s music history.