The Manhattans
Velvety harmonies and sophisticated orchestral soul for the deep hours of the night. Romantic, bittersweet, and impeccably smooth R&B for slow dancing and reflection.
Velvety harmonies and sophisticated orchestral soul for the deep hours of the night. Romantic, bittersweet, and impeccably smooth R&B for slow dancing and reflection.
The Manhattans represent the absolute pinnacle of sophisticated, late-night soul. Their sound is defined by a luxurious blend of deep baritone monologues, soaring tenors, and orchestral arrangements that feel like a warm embrace. It is music that occupies the space between a cocktail lounge and a lonely bedroom, balancing high-class elegance with raw, relatable heartbreak.
What truly sets them apart is their mastery of the 'Quiet Storm' aesthetic before the term even existed. While their peers in Philly Soul often leaned into disco rhythms, The Manhattans perfected the art of the slow burn. Their signature move - a deep-voiced spoken word introduction - creates an immediate intimacy, making the listener feel like they are hearing a private confession set to a lush, cinematic score.
Start with their 1976 masterpiece 'Kiss and Say Goodbye' to hear their perfect vocal chemistry, then move to 'Shining Star' for a masterclass in early 80s R&B polish. If you want to hear their roots, 'A Million to One' showcases the grit and grace that allowed them to transition from the doo-wop era into the modern soul landscape.
The Manhattans are an American R&B vocal group. Their songs "Kiss and Say Goodbye", recorded in 1976, and 1980's "Shining Star", both sold millions of copies. The Manhattans have recorded 45 hits on the Billboard R&B Chart, including twelve top-10 R&B hits in the United States, starting in 1965. Sixteen of their songs have reached the Billboard Hot 100, including two top 10s and a number-one hit with their song "Kiss and Say Goodbye". They also charted eight U.S. R&B top 20 Albums, three of which were RIAA certified gold. The Manhattans were inducted into The Atlantic City Walk of Fame in September 2024.
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