Wee Gee
William "Wee Gee" Howard II was a soul and funk vocalist best known as a lead singer for The Dramatics. Born on July 13, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, he passed away on February 22, 2000, in Bronxville, New York.
Wee Gee, son of George and Elise Howard, acquired his nickname in high school while attending MacKenzie High School. He began singing at age 12, inspired by his older brother George's group, and sang second tenor and baritone, influenced by David Ruffin of The Temptations.
He joined The Dramatics in 1968, replacing lead singer Larry Reed. The group achieved hits through collaborations with producer Tony Hester, defining their distinctive harmonies on albums like Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get (1971).
After leaving The Dramatics in 1972, Wee Gee pursued a solo career, releasing singles "Hold On To Your Dreams" and "You've Been A Part Of Me." He rejoined for a 1986 reunion but departed again in 1989, replaced by Steve Boyd-Barnett.
Hold On (To Your Dreams)
Written-By – Hunter, Bullock
10:33
A2 Ain't Nothing Missin' (But The Music)
Written-By – Hunter, Bullock
5:33
A3 Don't Make Me The Reason
Written-By – Fordham, Love, Bullock
4:58
B1 (Just When) My World Seemed Blue
Written-By – Fields, Reynolds, Grace, Bullock, Spencer
6:02
B2 Let Me Lay With You
Written-By – Reynolds, Grace, Carson, Bullock
5:53
B3 Remember The Love
Written-By – Chestener Loretta Gorden, Steven Rice, Bullock
4:06
B4 You've Been A Part Of Me
Written-By – Fordham, Love, Bullock
4:30
Label: Cotillion – SD 5220
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1980
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Soul, Funk, Disco
Released in July 1980 on Cotillion Records, Hold On (To Your Dreams) is the solo debut from William "Wee Gee" Howard, the former lead singer of the legendary soul group The Dramatics.
The record is celebrated as a "smooth soul" gem that captures the transition from late 70s funk to early 80s modern soul. It was written, arranged, and produced by Vernon Bullock, who utilized an uptempo, polished style featuring synthesizers and keys that remained tasteful rather than overproduced.
The album blends Soul, Funk, and Disco. Critics have compared Howard’s vocal performance and the lush arrangements to the work of soul icon Lamont Dozier.
The standout "Hold On (To Your Dreams)" is a sprawling 10-minute epic known for its soaring, emotional groove and inspirational lyrics. The album lyrics focus on resilience, faith, and the pursuit of goals despite life's obstacles, often featuring messages of self-belief and encouragement.
Other notable tracks:-
"Ain't Nothin' Missin' (But the Music)": Often cited as the most commercial track on the LP, noted for its high hit potential despite being released as a B-side.
"You've Been a Part of Me": A raw, straight-from-the-heart confession that highlights Wee Gee’s ability to "lay his heart on the line".
On collector platforms like Discogs, the album maintains a high average rating of approximately 4.4/5, reflecting its status as a favorite among soul and funk enthusiasts. While the original LP was released in 1980, it has seen various reissues, including a notable 2006 Japanese mini-LP CD release.