The Detroit Emeralds
The Detroit Emeralds were an American R&B/soul vocal group originally formed in the 1960s in Little Rock, Arkansas, by brothers Abrim, Ivory, Cleophus, and Raymond Tilmon. Initially known as "The Emeralds," they relocated to Detroit, Michigan, and became the Detroit Emeralds. The group achieved initial success with the single "Show Time" in 1968 on Ric-Tic Records. By 1970, the group had reduced to a trio consisting of Abrim and Ivory Tilmon, and James Mitchell. They signed with Westbound Records and produced a series of hits in the early 1970s, including "Do Me Right," "You Want It, You Got It," and "Baby Let Me Take You (In My Arms)." Their most memorable song, "Feel the Need in Me," became a transatlantic hit in 1973.
The group underwent several lineup changes over the years. In 1977, the roster expanded to include Paul Riser, Johnny Allen, and Maurice King. Despite lineup changes and internal challenges, the group maintained a presence on the oldies and cabaret circuit throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Notably, James Mitchell and Marvin Wills formed an offshoot group, the Floaters, in 1977.
The Detroit Emeralds experienced a revival in 2019 when founding member James Mitchell Jr. reformed the group with new members LaVel Jackson, Eddie Cameron, and Dewayne Loc Lomax. They released new music, including the singles "Call Me, I'm Ready" and "Victory" in 2019 and 2021, respectively. Despite their challenges, the Detroit Emeralds remain a respected name in the R&B and soul music genres.
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