Biography
Formed in 1974 in the UK by three vocalists who had arrived from Jamaica, the trio 15-16-17 comprised Sonia Williams together with sisters Christine McNabb and Wraydette McNabb. They first appeared as the Gorgon Sisters in a talent contest held at the Georgian club in Croydon, Surrey, England. Club owner Castro Brown suggested they rename themselves 15-16-17 to reflect the members’ ages at the time. Two straight weeks of victories followed, earned with their cover of Louisa Mark’s lovers rock song ‘Caught You In A Lie’. Produced by Castro Brown, they cut ‘If You Love Me Smile’ and ‘Black Skin Boy’, the latter featuring Dennis Bovell, and both singles came out on his Morpheus label, which Dennis Brown actively supported. When Morpheus ceased operations in 1976 the group encountered an obstacle yet chose to remain with Castro Brown. In 1977 a partnership with Dennis Brown resulted in the launch of the D.E.B. label. Castro Brown produced their reworking of the Temptations track ‘Just My Imagination’ under the title ‘Girls Imagination’, which also appeared on the DEB showcase compilation Black Echoes promoted by the weekly music journal of the same name. The single quickly topped the reggae charts and was succeeded by the equally successful ‘Suddenly Happiness’. Releases in 1978 included ‘Emotions’, ‘Good Times’ and ‘Someone Special’. After working with Pablo Black and Oneness the singers altered their approach on ‘I’m Hurt’, shifting closer to roots than the lovers style for which they were known. Live work encompassed a tour of Italy with Wreckless Breed and support slots for Gregory Isaacs on his UK dates. The trio disbanded in the early 1980s, after which Christine pursued a solo path while Castro Brown established his New Name Music label. ‘Girls Imagination’ received a re-release in 1984.