Chapter 8

Originally, Chapter 8 were formed in 1972 by Michael J. Powell to offer music support for the Detroit Emeralds, but soon added Carolyn Crawford as lead singer to perform under their own name. After Carolyn left to work with Bohannon, and Barbara Love stepped in temporarily, Anita Baker became lead singer, but after this, their debut album Chapter 8, Ariola dropped the group as they were told Anita couldn't sing! While they would later regret that decision Valerie Pinkston came on board to join co-lead vocalist Gerald Lyles for two classic albums This Love's for Real and for Capitol Records Forever (1988). Chapter 8's music represents a depth in quality of songs, vocals and musicality rarely found in today's r&b and in January 2010 we were thrilled at Expansion to have been able to put back together original musicians from the group for a reunion concert at our Luxury Soul Weekender in Blackpool, Lancashire. You can see some of the songs from this album captured live by the audience and uploaded to Youtube! (I think Ready for Your Love was one of the crowing glories of the evening)