Joined the VALADIERS in 1959, at the age of 16. Seven months later we scheduled an Appointment with Berry Gordy (President & Chairman of the board of MOTOWN RECORDS) in Detroit which even at that time was considered one of the most successful independent recording companies existing. Following the audition Berry Gordy was so impressed with us that he decided to make us a part of the Motown family. I also had the distinction of having been the lead singer & member of "THE FIRST" white vocal group to become part of the Motown family.
In 1961 we released our first single. "GREETINGS THIS IS UNCLE SAM" which was a big hit, especially in the east coast. From early 1962 -!963 we had several more releases such as "While I'm Away", "I Found A Girl" and "Because I Love Her". In 1964 my contract with Motown was up and the group then disbanded.
I then, as a solo artist signed to a contract with GOLDEN WORLD RECORDS and had one release "KING FOR A DAY". I remained with GOLDEN WORLD until Dec.1 1964 when I then received my "GREETINGS FROM UNCLE SAM" & was Inducted into the Military. Following my release from the Military, I resumed my singing career briefly and then decided to call it quits until the early ' 80's. when I was asked to join a local singing group called THE LATIN COUNTS. which was later changed to our original name THE VALADIERS.
In 1989 & 90 we became part of a major project of which there were several known MOTOWN artists, along with us that recorded as well. Our releases included: PAINTED SMILE, WHATS WRONG WITH ME BABY, NO COMPETITION, LOVE DON'T LOVE NOBODY & THE TRUTH HURTS.
For the next several years we performed locally doing private parties & a variety of concerts until 2001 when one of our members left the group and was replaced by a new member. However the new member came with serious credentials. He is none other then the original lead singer of THE SHADES OF BLUE (NOTABLE HIT RECORD) "OH HOW HAPPY" 1966 release.
For the past several years, I have had the distinct pleasure of performing with Such acts as: DION, THE SPANIELS, THE DELLS. MARTHA & THE VANDELLAS, THE TEENAGERS, GENE CHANDLER, PEGGY MARCH; THE CONTOURS: and many many more. We continue to remain very active today doing concerts frequently. However we are most grateful to be a part of a musical history that will always be appreciated and never die.
Regarding my personal life, I have been happily married for 34 years, & have been blessed with 2 wonderful sons. " WHO COULD ASK FOR ANYTHING MORE?. We are also the owners of a precious metal refining company called "NORTHERN REFINERIES". Contact: www.northernrefineries.com