Biography
This Detroit ensemble gained recognition primarily through its role in propelling Anita Baker toward stardom. Michael Powell and David Washington established the original lineup in 1972. The musicians first supported the Detroit Emeralds before Powell and Washington recruited singers Rick Means and Carolyn Crawford. Barbara Love soon took Crawford’s place. Following Love’s exit, Washington brought Baker into the fold after encountering her background vocals with the local outfit Osmoses. Means had already departed when the act, now called Chapter 8, secured a contract with Ariola in 1979. Baker and Gerald Lyles shared lead vocal duties while Powell, Derek Dickson, Allen E. Nance, Courtien Hale, Scott Guthrie, Van Cephus, and Washington filled out the roster. Their self-titled debut album appeared on Ariola that same year, yet the label quickly ended the relationship. Baker then pursued a solo path. By the time of the 1985 Beverly Glenn release, Valerie Pinkson was trading lead vocals with Lyles, and keyboardist Vernon Falls had joined the remaining core of Hale, Washington, and Powell. This Love’s for Real produced no chart successes, although it delivered a sturdy blend of soul and funk. The same personnel stayed together for the 1988 Capitol album Forever, which Powell produced; the project failed to gain traction and the label released the group. Powell later built a thriving production career that included notable successes with Baker and Regina Belle. Several Chapter 8 members have also appeared on recordings by Baker, Peabo Bryson, David Peaston, and James Ingram.
Albums