On This Day, July 25, 1965 the Spinners charted with a soon to be Soul Classic … “It’s A Shame” … written and produced by the Boy Genius … Stevie Wonder. I can still remember the day it came out … Summertime in Da ‘Burgh … Sweet Soul Music in the air! So, I dropped my needle on the record today and went back in time once again … and started reminiscing about the group that got its start back in the late 50’s calling themselves the Domingos. In 1961 they changed their name to the Spinners after the Chrome Hubcaps on cars at the time and met and signed with the great Harvey Fuqua on his Tri-Phi label. Their first single as the Spinners was “That’s What Girls Are Made For” one of my all-time favorite Ballads. As my singing career began to take off, I/we had the opportunity to work with the Spinners quite a few times and I had the opportunity to watch the Spinners in action from the rehearsals and sound checks to their flawless stage performances. The group had that certain personality that left you mesmerized wanting for more. Their choreography was exceptional, their vocals were second to none, and their love was contagious. From their early days on Tri Phi through their memorable days at Motown straight through their classic days at Atlantic, the Spinners were one of the All-Time Great Vocal Groups. Sometimes I have to pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming … experiencing first-hand the comradery with the Spinners. I had the honors of becoming friends with the great Harvy Fuqua as well as the Spinners … there have been so many memorable conversations about their early days and their mark on Soul Music History … I was like a sponge absorbing the stories and music history. Unfortunately, they are all gone and I’m sure they are performing in Rock N’ Roll Heaven, but their music and memories live on forever. My only regret is that the young musicians and singers coming up did not have the experience to see and hear these musical giants … “It’s A Shame” … The SPINNERS!