Enchantment

by Craig LytleTheir music is soulful, smooth, romantic, and melodious. Their lyrics are warm, affectionate, loving, and understanding. And they present a sound that is distinctively their own, conveying stories of reality and fantasy, with the ultimate message being love. The golden sound of Enchantment was formed in 1967 at Pershing High School in Detroit. Two years later, the multi-talented group, which consists of Emanuel "E.J." Johnson, Joe Thomas, Dave Banks, Ed "Mickey" Clanton, and Bobby Green, obtained their first recording contract, in addition to 500 dollars, by winning first place in a talent contest sponsored by a local radio station (WCHB). In 1970, Enchantment joined forces with Artists International, a talent development agency for up-and-coming artists (founded by renowned manager Dick Scott). While with Artists International, Enchantment really began to perfect their craft, concentrating on stage presence, choreography, and expanding their theatrical talents by performing in numerous musical plays around the city. Enchantment became acquainted with their producer-to-be, Michael Stokes, in 1973 while performing at a local nightclub (Stage One). Through this union, they recorded a movie score on Polydor Records in 1974 entitled Deliver Us From Evil, which was released in 1975. By 1976, Enchantment had signed with the Roadshow label and recorded their self-entitled debut album. The first single to ride the charts for the fledgling group was "Come On and Ride." Later that year, the charismatic showmen received national acclaim with the release of their second single, "Gloria." Written and arranged by dynamic lead singer E.J. Johnson, "Gloria" became a smash, and was one of the most popular songs of 1976-1977. They followed it up with another smash hit, "Sunshine," from the same album. The self-contained group entered the studio in the fall of 1977, and recorded their second album, Once Upon a Dream. Their third consecutive number one single, "It's You That I Need," reigned for a solid four weeks. It was followed by "If You're Ready (Here It Comes)," also a Top Ten single. Enchantment continued their hit-making ways with a string of soul-stirring hits: "Where Do We Go From Here," "Forever More," "Moment of Weakness," "Enchanted Lady," and many others, influencing such artists as After 7, Johnny Gill, and Warren G, to name a few. Since 1976, the sound of Enchantment has had an everlasting affect on all who have had the pleasure of listening to their great music, and contrary to rumors, the group never disbanded. Enchantment's longevity is attributed to their vitality and the dedication they have for their craft. The group continues to impressively demonstrate their quality golden sound at concerts and events around the country.