Voices Of East Harlem

A frequently moving collective of 20 voices, the Voices of East Harlem proved more adept at devotional and inspirational repertoire than at mainstream R&B or soul. Among its principal singers were Gerri Griffin and Monica Burress. Leroy Hutson and Curtis Mayfield produced sessions for the ensemble, whose members ranged in age from 12 to 21, yielding several tracks for the Just Sunshine label that failed to register on the charts. Nevertheless, the group’s 1973 album The Voices of East Harlem emerged as a strikingly accomplished recording, while its single “Cashing In” attained lasting cult status. Later reissued as a remixed 12-inch, the track “Wanted Dead or Alive” attracted modest notice on international dance floors.