Photo courtesy of The Temptations
(June 19, 2020) By nearly any measure, they are the greatest R&B vocal group of all time, and now they are back to being a quintet. It is impossible to talk about the development of soul music since the early 60s without repeatedly coming back to the Temptin' Tempts. In the 60s they redefined the soul group, from the impeccable look they brought to the stage, to their focus on group choreography, to, most importantly, the immediately identifiable 5-part group harmony they mastered. Every major soul group since 1965 owes a huge debt to the Temptations, and most acknowledge it.
Earlier this year, The Temptations announced they would embark on a 60th Anniversary Tour, but for nearly a year the most famous soul quintet ever has been working as a quartet, following the departure of lead singer Larry Braggs.
The Temptin' Tempts made news twice today. First, with the public announcement of new lead singer Mario Corbino, and second, by quietly releasing a touching video medley of the classic Carole King song, "You've Got A Friend" combined with Bill Withers' "Lean On Me." Corbino, who is the second singer in the video (sporting a beard and a gray t-shirt) sounds fantastic, and the overall performance is a moving tribute on Juneteenth.
Check out the beautiful performance by the Temptations below, and marvel with us at new singer Mario Corbino.
Thanks to SoulTracker Joseph for letting us know