Biography
Formed at Chicago’s Marshall High School in 1958, the R&B and soul ensemble the Artistics first drew notice from Major Lance. The group performed at the 1960 Democratic Convention and provided backing vocals for Lance before entering the studio for Okeh in 1963, the same year founding members Aaron Floyd, Curt Thomas, Laurence Johnson, and Jesse Bolian were joined by original lead singer Robert Dobyne.
Early Okeh releases comprised the 1964–1965 singles “Get My Hands on Some Lovin” and “This Heart of Mine.” Marvin Smith, previously of the El Dorados, took Dobyne’s place in 1964. Signing with Brunswick in 1966, the Artistics achieved their greatest success with “I’m Gonna Miss You,” which also named their first album for the label. Three additional modest chart entries appeared on Brunswick through the late ’60s and early ’70s. Although Smith departed in 1967, he continued to contribute vocals to recordings; Tommy Green and Fred Pettis subsequently handled lead duties until the ensemble dissolved in 1973.
Early Okeh releases comprised the 1964–1965 singles “Get My Hands on Some Lovin” and “This Heart of Mine.” Marvin Smith, previously of the El Dorados, took Dobyne’s place in 1964. Signing with Brunswick in 1966, the Artistics achieved their greatest success with “I’m Gonna Miss You,” which also named their first album for the label. Three additional modest chart entries appeared on Brunswick through the late ’60s and early ’70s. Although Smith departed in 1967, he continued to contribute vocals to recordings; Tommy Green and Fred Pettis subsequently handled lead duties until the ensemble dissolved in 1973.
Albums