Gerald Alston of the Manhattans
As any R&B enthusiast will attest, the name Gerald Alston has always been synonymous with soul, elegance and sophistication. The one voice you never get tired of. Alston inherited some big shoes and has filled them admirably for over 45 years. Born in Henderson, North Carolina, Gerald Alston, the son of Rev. J.B. Alston and the nephew of gospel great Johnny Fields of the Five Blind Boys of Alabama, learned his trade in church.
As a teen he formed Gerald Alston & the New Imperials, a group that performing both secular and religious music, called themselves The Gospel Jubilee when they appeared in churches. During a local appearance, Alston met the Manhattans when they borrowed equipment from Alston’s band. When The Manhattans heard Gerald rehearsing, they loved what they heard and asked the 17 year old to join the group.
Alston took over as their lead singer in 1970. The group enjoyed enormous success in the 70s and 80s with songs such as: “There’s No Me Without You”, “Wish That You Were Mine”, “Hurt’, “We Never Danced To A Love Song”, “Don’t Take Your Love From Me”, “I Kinda Miss You”, and “It Feels So Good To be Loved So Bad”. Their 1976 single “Kiss and Say Goodbye” was both a number one R&B and Pop hit.
The Manhattans won a Grammy in 1980 for the big hit “Shining Star”. After seventeen years, Gerald left The Manhattans to pursue a solo career. His debut album with Motown Records was entitled Gerald Alston followed by Open Invitation in 1990. His third album in 1992 Always In The Mood was a blend of classic R&B songs with ’90s music and nuances. In 1993, Gerald signed with Scotti Brothers/Street Life Records and recorded his debut album entitled First Class Only which Alston believes is one of the best albums he has recorded. In the same year, Gerald reunited with Blue Lovett and The Manhattans for a 30th year reunion performance. Since then, The Manhattans featuring Gerald Alston and Blue Lovett have been enjoying new found success, performing nationally and around the world. Just to name a few places, Japan, South Africa, Jamaica, and Bermuda.
In the states at places like Star Plaza, Merrillville, Fox Theaters, Atlanta, and Detroit, Radio City, The Beacon Theater, Westbury Music Fair and B.B. King Supper club all in the New York area. Constitution Hall, Washington, DC. Grand Casino, Tunica, Universal Amphitheater, Los Angeles, and the Celebrity in Phoenix.
In September 2003 Alston was asked to perform at the Sam Cooke Tribute in Chicago, IL. In November of 2005 Alston and The Manhattans performed at The State Theater in Cleveland, OH – Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 10th Annual American Music Masters honoring the legend Sam Cooke. September 30, 2006 Alston was asked back to the Sam Cooke Tribute in Chicago. On December 9, 2014 Winfred “Blue” Lovett passed away.
Alston is looking forward to a continued singing career and bringing joy, happiness and heart felt soul to his many fans around the world.
“The Manhattans Legacy Continues”!!!!!
