Eugene Booker Record was an influential American singer, songwriter, arranger, and record producer, born on December 23, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois. He passed away on July 22, 2005, in his hometown, after a long battle with cancer. Record is best known as the lead vocalist of The Chi-Lites, a Chicago-based vocal group that achieved international fame with hits like "Oh Girl," "Have You Seen Her," "Soulful Strut," and "(For God's Sake) Give More Power to the People." His songwriting prowess earned him a Grammy Award, and his contributions to the R&B and soul genres have left a lasting legacy.

Record's early exposure to music came through his older sister, a pianist, which inspired him to learn the guitar. During high school, he formed his first musical group with Robert Lester, which eventually evolved into The Chi-Lites. Under the guidance of producer Carl Davis at Brunswick Records, Record's songwriting talents flourished, often collaborating with singer Barbara Acklin. Together, they crafted several hits for The Chi-Lites, including million-sellers like "Have You Seen Her" and "Oh Girl."

In addition to his work with The Chi-Lites, Record wrote and produced for other artists, including Jackie Wilson and The Dells. After a brief solo career in the late 1970s, he rejoined The Chi-Lites in 1980 and continued to contribute to the music industry until the mid-1980s. Later in life, Record became a born-again Christian and produced a gospel album on his own Evergreen label.

Eugene Record's personal life included two marriages, first to his high school sweetheart Sandra Scott, and later to Jacqueline, with whom he had a son named Brian. Despite some erroneous reports, Record was never married to Barbara Acklin; their relationship was strictly professional.

At the time of his death, Record's net worth was estimated at approximately $3 million, accumulated through his successful music career. His influence continues to resonate, with his compositions being sampled by contemporary artists, ensuring that his legacy endures in the world of soul and R&B music.