I've Known This Group For A Many Year's And Let Me Tell You They Are one Of The Best Groups That Have Ever Grace A Stage Keep It Going My Brothers Your Music Will Never Die God Bless.
i love these guys pure harmony . can't beat it even with auto tune today real singing God Bless you guys may heaven put together best acapella band we will neve hear from here
It will never be the same without Tubo, Jerry and now Joe. Two originals left. Bless them! Gotta do what they gotta do. Miss you Jimmy & Jay. Mar & John :) :)
LOVE THE SOUND THATS HOW IT WAS. HANGING ON THE STREET CORNER. IN THE HALL WAYS. BRINGS TEARS TO MY EYES.WAS A LONG TIME AGO IN ANOTHER LIFE TIME. NICE MEMORIES
WoW!!👍 Wish I had the opportunity to meet them all since the 1980's when I was introduced to their 🎤🎶Harmonic Prestigious Acappella Doo-Wop Vocals🎶👏👏👏👏👏 and few members passing 😇R.I.P in this Life.... Acappella is the Best💕💕
@@drewsagar2634 - Ever thought about which bands you would have roadied for? Just to get to watch the show for free, then tear it down & set it up again at the next place -- all while making decent $$$ back in the day. - - - - - 80s RUSH, late 70s Boston, 60s Steppenwolf, 90s RUSH, 2000+ RUSH,...LOL,...Kansas, STYX, Steve Miller, Steely Dan, and too many more to mention. Oh,..wait,..i think i forgot,..did i mention RUSH? :oP
One day, for some reason, i woke up with RUSH's "Emotion Detector" stuck in my head. It wouldn't leave me alone either,...'til i finally went and put it on UA-cam and listened to it. Then i was "free" (cheap reference to "Freewill" by the band mentioned above. :o)
I had no idea these guys were still around. I grew up wearing out a VHS tape of Spike Lee's acapella movie, and I kept watching the persuasions' Looking for an Echo! Great music
Check them out, but you have to know this is not the original line up. Jerry Lawson is not there anymore. But Jimmy "Bro" Hayes, unfortunately after this show we lost "Sweet Joe", Jayotis is still up there, Toubo too. I have intimate love for all these people, back in 1976 when I was 19 sitting in the crowd of the "Childe Harolde" on Georgia Avenue in my hometown of Washington D.C. when they called me up to the stage, I thought I pissed them off cause I was singing along with them as loud as I could. No. he asked me if I knew the words to Sam Cook's "Chain Gang" well I did, but forgot my own name when the reality of the moment sunk in and I found myself singing lead in front of about 300 people with the original lineup singing backup for ...ME!!? I screwed it up so bad man, but they said so many nice things, gave me encouragement, hope, support. They showed me what friendship and fellowship mean, and here I am still trying to do it after 44 years since that fateful night. Proud to say that whether I sound like a cat in a fan belt or not, I love love love to sing. Not trying to fool myself into believing I will ever reach the level these cats live on..ever. But I can't thank them enough for their act of simple kindness. Sometimes the most trivial of things some might perceive them to be, are authentic life changers to others. Like that moments of kindness was for me. Like a pebble thrown into a calm waters, you never know how many ripples will hit the shore, or how many times and the things they might affect. God knows, God Bless you all. Good Father Buffalo I am Paul "Cosmic Buffalo" La Bonte.
Are you nuts? Sweet Joe and Toubo were BOTH dearly departed in 2012--not "up there" for this show. Great memories you have, though...mine are also so beautiful.
That story brought me to tears. My dad listened to these guys all the time in the 70 s and 80s. I left for the service in 82. My dad and I have had a very strained relationship over the last 40 years. Decades without talking or seeing each other. I came to this and it feels good. Again your story was so sweet
MAYBE THEY ARE NOT AS WE REMEMBER THEM OR MAYBE OUR MEMORY IS NOT AS WE'D LIKE IT TO BE. BUT THESE GENTLEMEN ARE SINGING THEIR HEARTS OUT AND WE OWE THEM THE RESPECT THEY DESERVE. IT ALSO OCCURS TO ME THAT THE ACOUSTICS ARE LESS THAN PERFECT. I HOPE PEOPLE ARE KINDER TO YOU AND ME THAN SOME OF YOUR COMMENTS ARE TO THEM. SPEAKING FOR MYSELF, I ENJOYED LISTENING TO THIS CONCERT.
Although Jerry Lawson has not yet taken legal action against these men for their unauthorized use of The Persuasions’ name, I thought you might, for the sake of historical accuracy (in other words the truth, not “alternative facts”), want to be educated. Dave Revels , who is the lead singer of this group, profits from and exploits Jerry Lawson’s arrangements, productions, and indeed his Persuasions legacy without any acknowledgement of Lawson. He never reveals that his group, which features only two original members still (Jimmy Hayes, bass, and Jayotis Washington, who sang only very occasional leads) consists of impersonators, and is not the institution that recorded 25 albums over 40 years. Revels even copies Lawson’s lead singing at his whim, which must confuse less discerning audience members unaware that Lawson is no longer with the group. Having two originals apparently gives Revels the excuse to misrepresent this group of (four or five different) revolving singers as “The Persuasions.” No, this is not a case of musicians merely being replaced when members leave an established group. This is akin to Mick Jagger leaving the Rolling Stones, being replaced by an imitator, and the group continuing to be booked as The Rolling Stones. This injustice is perpetrated by Revels.. The Persuasions were known for a distinct sound characterized largely by their lead singer’s signature baritone over 25 albums of original vocal arrangements and production. The group of men using the name, “Persuasions,” attempt to replicate these arrangements, as I said, though it’s a pale imitation. Most egregiously, Revels and his crew had the sheer audacity to record album tributes to U-2 and Bob Dylan that do not in any way suggest the tradition, excellence, dignity of The Persuasions’ recorded legacy. I do hope you will see to it that the truth about these masqueraders will be made known.
Julie, being one of Jerry's biggest fans, I hate to take issue with you, but the fact is that Jerry left the group when three original members were still remaining with it. At that time, he lost any right to take any legal action against the group for the continued use of the "Persuasions" name. At that time, Sweet Joe, Jimmy, and Jayotis were 60% of the original group, 75% if you take the group as having still existed after Toubo's death.I love Jerry and his voice, and I was proud of the way that he continued to be a viable lead singer for the group till he left, ostensibly to retire from show business...but I saw the group after his departure, and they were indeed still the Persuasions as they had been--much like the Rolling Stones were after the death of Brian Jones--or the Persuasions after the death of Toubo. One could argue that the Persuasions were no longer "The Persuasions" after Toubo's death, since Jerry (and Jimmy and Joe as well) told me that he was the true glue that held the group's sound together (yes, Jerry--you yourself told me he was the man who made the Persuasions "The Persuasions")--but Jerry's departure did not signal the end of the Persuasions any more than Toubo's death did.And so, taking the 75% figure following Toubo's 1988 death, there is still a 50% percentage of "original members" within the group. (One might argue that the 75% figure is more accurate, since although the Persuasions were fairly well-known in the 1970s-80s, they attained their biggest audience after they appeared in Spike Lee's film after Toubo's death.) With Jerry only as a 20% (one out of the original five) or 25% (one out of the remaining four) member, he still would have no right to "claim" the "Persuasions" name, since he left of his own volition in 2003, while the three remaining members kept the name and toured--very beautifully--after that time.One might also ask--did Jerry himself trademark the name "The Persuasions"? If he did not, then how is he--one member, albeit the lead voice--more entitled to use the name "The Persuasions"--or to "take legal action against these men for their unauthorized use of The Persuasions’ [sic] name" than Jayotis and Jimmy are? The very idea is ludicrous. Kinda like "The Allman Brothers Band" not being able to use that name after Duane Allman died...or, sillier still, after Dickie Betts died.And, yes, Jerry, as you told Sharon Stone, this is NOT the same group she saw in Boston in 1975. Neither was the group I saw in 2002, with Toubo missing--but it was still The Persuasions. Neither was the group I saw in 2010, with you missing--but it was still The Persuasions. Neither is this group, with Sweet Joe missing--but it is still The Persuasions. And Julie, while the U2 and Dylan albums are different from much of the Persuasions's legacy, so were the Zappa and Grateful Dead albums in which Jerry participated.For that matter, "A Cappella Dreams" was quite different from any previous Persuasions album (and one might say the same thing about "You're All I Want for Christmas," "On the Good Ship Lollipop," and "Sunday Morning Soul"--not to mention "Ships at Sea, Sailors and Shoes," if you want to point fingers). And if we want to talk about one person making a difference, well, let's look back to the "Chirpin'" album, on which Jayotis did not participate. Some critics think this is the ultimate Persuasions album. (Jay does not agree.) Should Jayotis sue for damages. or for the right to use the name "The Persuasions" because they recorded that album without his authorization or involvement?The facts are: The Persuasions are still "The Persuasions," with 40-50% of the original members remaining. At their "artistic peak," Jerry was only 20-25% of the Persuasions. The Persuasions were no less "The Persuasions" after Jerry's desertion than they were after Toubo's death. "The Persuasions," as it is today, is still a completely viable entity--no matter what you, or Jerry, or anyone else thinks--as evidenced by the release of the new album where the Persuasions perform with the Barenaked Ladies--which album (one might argue) is making their name better-known than it was before--which means that "The Persuasions" (as they are now) are more famous than "The Persuasions" as they were before Jerry deserted them--and more entitled to use the name than even the original five-man group.One other thought, Jerry--and I don't mean this to be cruel--your albums after you left the Persuasions have been nowhere near as repeatedly-listenable as all those great Capitol, Elektra, and Rounder/Flying Fish LPs. They're not bad, but the Persuasions albums--even those after your departure--are the classics. If you're interested, perhaps you should bill yourself as "Jerry Lawson (formerly of The Persuasions)"--at least you can use their current success to draw attention to your less-than-stellar recordings since you left them.
Whoever you are, you have no idea of the truth. You were not there. You have no idea what the real break up was about. No idea why Jerry left. You have no idea who Toubo and Jay were in the context of the group. You were not in the room, back stage, in the meetings, in the cars, in the hotels with The Persuasions to know what and why.. It was all very private and never disclosed in public. I WAS THERE. Jerry was the one who took the high road and intentionally lied to the press in EVERY interview as to why he left in order not to disparage the group. You really need to ask yourself what makes you think you have the right to comment at all as to what happened. The fact that you even believe that Toubo was the glue who held the group together speaks volumes as to what you do not know. And with what you do not know we could build a brand new world.
This is obviously written by someone who met and thinks he knows, or knew, Jerry Lawson, and has an axe to grind. Such a puny, petulant, subjective comment is an obvious attempt to insult and degrade. The fact---not opinion---is that the two or three albums recorded by the group largely consisting of ringers calling itself “The Persuasions” bear no resemblance to any of the approximately 25 albums by the original group. They are completely different in terms of style, arrangement, singing, atmosphere. People are free to enjoy them, of course. The tragic thing is that anyone would conflate these ringer-heavy albums, arranged by one Dave Revels, with the originals. Yes, my subjective opinion is that these recent albums not only do not hold a candle to those by the original group, where Jerry sang almost all the leads, and arranged/produced, or co-arranged/produced, but that they are just absolutely dreadful. Travesties. They also do not remotely compare, in my view, with the exquisite work Jerry did on his album with the San Francisco a cappella group, Talk of the Town, for example. Note that the person who posted this comment refers to Jerry’s “recordings” since leaving the crumbling remains of the original Persuasions. By that statement, he includes Jerry’s wonderfully reviewed---acclaimed, by all accounts---solo album with instrumental backing, “Just a Mortal Man,” produced by Eric Brace. How one can compare an a cappella album to an album by a soloist with a band, I have no idea. This exposes the lack of thinking on the part of the commenter, if not lack of intelligence.
P.S. Dave Revels, or Bart, or is it Fred or John Ng? your post was read to Jerry Lawson He is so humble and so much smarter and high minded than you'll ever know.. he just laughed and said "God Bless Him"
@@in2food I grew up in North Philly where street corner singing was the norm it had died out then one I heard about a group called ThePersuasions for me the rest was history!
People on here bitching about how it's not the original lineup. Take your grievances up with god and his choice on human lifespan, shut the fuck up and enjoy the music. These guys sound great.
Love to hear from the Persuasions. Miss Jerry and Joe saw them many times in Beantown. These may not be the original (original sound) members but they did a good job. I would listen to a good tribute group just to hear their music.
I represent Jerry Lawson, the original lead singer, arranger and producer of The Persuasions over 40 years and 25 albums. You might, for the sake of historical accuracy appreciate knowing that the who call themselves The Persuasions are not The Persuasions. They are what is known in the industry as a tribute band. Dave Revels , who is the ring leader of these impostors, profits from Jerry Lawson’s arrangements, productions and indeed his legacy and without any acknowledgement of Lawson. He never reveals that this group features only one original member. One who sang very occasional leads. Revels even copies Lawson’s lead singing at his whim, which must confuse less discerning audience members. Having one original member apparently gives Revels the chutzpah to misrepresent this group of four to six different revolving singers as “The Persuasions.” This is not a case of musicians merely being replaced when members leave an established group. This is akin to Mick Jagger leaving the Rolling Stones, being replaced by an imitator, and the group continuing to be booked as The Rolling Stones. The Persuasions are known for a distinct sound characterized largely by their lead singer’s signature baritone, the blend he created and his unique vocal arrangements. The group of men using the name, “Persuasions,” attempt to replicate these arrangements, though it’s a pale imitation. Most egregiously, Revels and his crew had the sheer audacity to record album tributes to U-2 and Bob Dylan that do not in any way suggest the tradition, excellence, dignity of The Persuasions’ recorded legacy. But do not feel bad about being duped, as many in the industry have and are being deceived currently. Most people associated with these impostors are interested only in profits. The truth about these masqueraders will become headline news in the near future. The public must not be misled into thinking they are witnessing the original Persuasions, the original “Kings of A Cappella.”
For anyone watching this who is interested in facts please note this is not the original group who were known for their signature sound that made them The Persuasions. Here you have only 2 original members Jimmy Hayes on the far right and Jayotis Washington in the center. Their original lead singer, arranger and producer Jerry Lawson for 40 years and 22 albums left the group in 2003. Joe Russell passed away in 2012 and Herbert Rhoad passed away in the 80's. For facts: wwwdotjerrylawsondotbiz
+Gebriel Abebe Abebe Balcha 9 This is not The Original Persuasions who did Good Times. These guys are impostors who haven't been sued yet for slandering and tainting the legendary Persuasions
+Jack Ries ( Yes, I know for a fact The real Persuasions did Good Times. This is not them. My husband is the original lead singer and that is who you hear on "Good Times" )
Was that the woman from “the country hip hop”? 🤣 she always introduced them as “the king of a capella” singular and then backed it up by saying “the persuasion” also singular 😹
The group of the same name I'm thinking was cutting records back in the late 1960's . I stand corrected. Thank you Julie. However: This acupella group we have here on YT , are certainly damn good at what their doing.
Dave my husband is Jerry Lawson, original lead singer, arranger and producer of The Persuasions you remember. They made about 25 albums with them and left in 2003. For one of many reasons, one being they lost their voices and ability to harmonize. I'm glad you enjoy these impostors, however not to be mean, but I've heard 7 year olds with more talent. This group is so flat and lifeless it is disturbing to one who is accustomed to true talent.
also if you want to hear the difference between these punch drunk singers and the real thing listen to Jerry Lawson with his new a cappella group " Jerry Lawson & Talk of the Town" if you want to email me I'll send you some real singing- julie713@cox.net
+julie713 I hear the difference between both groups. That said, each group has genuine talent. The above has that original old style sound from the fifty's primarily sung within city tenement hallway, to enhance the level of harmony. However : Lawson's group is more fined tuned sounding more professional. Certainly that's all good compared to our currant sound of rap. Some believe rap has changed two generations into a legion of one's own mind. Thank you Julie, for your enlightenment of the real deal.
These are not The Persuasions. It is a tribute group with a couple of original members. They are an insult to the originals and the man who created all the arrangements they sing
The Persuasions don't need Jerry. He got big headed and wanted the name changed to Jerry Lawson & The Persuasions. He also was doing 85% of the leads. Now the leads are spread among the five singers.
+John Ng You do not know Jerry Lawson personally if you think he could be big headed. He did not sing 85% of the leads he sang 99% of the leads because he was the lead singer, arranger, producer and leader. and that was the agreement when they got together in 1965. If these impostors really cared about the legacy they would be billed as a tribute band. Ego is really the devil. Instant karma may not be so instant at times, but it will get us in the end.
Julie, I do know The Persuasions personally. I am THEE Asian Persuasion. I sing the finale, "In The Still of The NIght" in Japanese. Jerry & I even talked about releasing the song as a single. You'll see me in their doc movie, "Spread The Word" 1996 (?) singing that song in the finale. I went to Aussie with them in 1994 & have been all over the US with them. I've been sing with them for 24 years. Julie I have shown my qualifications. According to the late Joe Russel they were to spread out the lead vocals. Jerry also tried to take Joe's solo songs away from him. Unfortunately and sadly Jerry didn't even show up at Joe's funeral. They are still singing with two originals singers, Jay & Jimmy. How can they now be a tribute group. I love the group even more now with Dave Revels. The lead songs are spread among all the singers.
John Ng You do not know Jerry Lawson personally. You have no idea of the truth. You only know what you have been told by others. You were not there in the privacy of their time together. You have no idea what they really think about you and your behavior. You have no idea about the content and truth of their relationships with each other. You do not know a thing about Jerry Lawson, the man. You only know whatever story that he created for a fan like you. What you think you know is not the truth. It's nice that you receive so much joy from your connection with those folks.
These guys are okay, but they are not The Persausions these guys are imitators. They shouldn't be called the Persausions they should be called The Imitators
this is so embarrassing and such an insult to The Persuasions' legacy created and held together by Jerry Lawson for 40 years. These guys should really quit or call themselves a tribute band. And sadly they are not even a good tribute band. so sad
No Jerry, No Joe, No oomph. Not the signature sound of the real Persuasions. Sad. They need to call themselves a tribute band. We've heard elementary school kids do better.
This tribute band led by Dave Revels cannot even come close to the sound of The Persuasions. That is why they are merely a tribute band- now here is a group that can really sing... ua-cam.com/video/1Pl_l4l3SLg/v-deo.html
they should get a new name and be advertised as a tribute band like all the other groups doing the repertoire of original groups.You Tube viewers give yourself a treat and listen to the real Persuasions and you too will understand.
I've Known This Group For A Many Year's And Let Me Tell You They Are one Of The Best Groups That Have Ever Grace A Stage Keep It Going My Brothers Your Music Will Never Die God Bless.
I've Known This Group For A Many Year's And Let Me Tell You They Are one Of The Best Groups That Have Ever Grace A Stage Keep It Going My Brothers Your Music Will Never Die God Bless.
i love these guys pure harmony . can't beat it even with auto tune today real singing God Bless you guys may heaven put together best acapella band we will neve hear from here
It will never be the same without Tubo, Jerry and now Joe. Two originals left. Bless them! Gotta do what they gotta do. Miss you Jimmy & Jay.
Mar & John :) :)
LOVE THE SOUND THATS HOW IT WAS. HANGING ON THE STREET CORNER. IN THE HALL WAYS. BRINGS TEARS TO MY EYES.WAS A LONG TIME AGO IN ANOTHER LIFE TIME. NICE MEMORIES
+carl matto Carl this is not The Persuasions. check out www DOT Jerry Lawson DOT BIZ
WoW!!👍 Wish I had the opportunity to meet them all since the 1980's when I was introduced to their 🎤🎶Harmonic Prestigious Acappella Doo-Wop Vocals🎶👏👏👏👏👏 and few members passing 😇R.I.P in this Life.... Acappella is the Best💕💕
Absolutely the Best of the Best Acappella is Forever!!!
Yes, I agree!! To see the originals ones in person was a treat.
Oh my God. I was their road manager in a Tour in Spain. We had a great time. Nice guys. The best!!!!!
God blees them.
Must have been Amazing beyond description
@@drewsagar2634 - Ever thought about which bands you would have roadied for? Just to get to watch the show for free, then tear it down & set it up again at the next place -- all while making decent $$$ back in the day. - - - - - 80s RUSH, late 70s Boston, 60s Steppenwolf, 90s RUSH, 2000+ RUSH,...LOL,...Kansas, STYX, Steve Miller, Steely Dan, and too many more to mention. Oh,..wait,..i think i forgot,..did i mention RUSH? :oP
Great concert
I saw them in Charlotte NC and I guess I an spoil by the originals ones. They sound good.
This is a wonderful way to be awaken. ❤
One day, for some reason, i woke up with RUSH's "Emotion Detector" stuck in my head.
It wouldn't leave me alone either,...'til i finally went and put it on UA-cam and listened to it.
Then i was "free" (cheap reference to "Freewill" by the band mentioned above. :o)
I had no idea these guys were still around. I grew up wearing out a VHS tape of Spike Lee's acapella movie, and I kept watching the persuasions' Looking for an Echo!
Great music
Is there an ECHOOOOOOoooooo in here? :oP
Most of the originals ones are pass on, but these will do. Keep singing guys
saw them in beantown in '75 and was up so close i could feel their sweat. they are incredibly good.
+Sharon Stone This is not the group you saw in Boston
Thanks you guys. Needed to see this video after he attack on Paris. Perfect.
Well I like to listen to this Group then some of the others there!! and +Jim Braddock I am so HAPPY that you are "PERFECT". They sound Great to me!!!!
YOU ARE SO RIGHT... THEY ARE MISSING MY GRANDPA SWEET JOE RUSSELL.
One of the greatest second tenors ever!
The last time I saw them there were only two still alive and they had the daughter of one of the original group singing with them.
great songs
Check them out, but you have to know this is not the original line up. Jerry Lawson is not there anymore. But Jimmy "Bro" Hayes, unfortunately after this show we lost "Sweet Joe", Jayotis is still up there, Toubo too. I have intimate love for all these people, back in 1976 when I was 19 sitting in the crowd of the "Childe Harolde" on Georgia Avenue in my hometown of Washington D.C. when they called me up to the stage, I thought I pissed them off cause I was singing along with them as loud as I could. No. he asked me if I knew the words to Sam Cook's "Chain Gang" well I did, but forgot my own name when the reality of the moment sunk in and I found myself singing lead in front of about 300 people with the original lineup singing backup for ...ME!!? I screwed it up so bad man, but they said so many nice things, gave me encouragement, hope, support. They showed me what friendship and fellowship mean, and here I am still trying to do it after 44 years since that fateful night. Proud to say that whether I sound like a cat in a fan belt or not, I love love love to sing. Not trying to fool myself into believing I will ever reach the level these cats live on..ever. But I can't thank them enough for their act of simple kindness. Sometimes the most trivial of things some might perceive them to be, are authentic life changers to others. Like that moments of kindness was for me. Like a pebble thrown into a calm waters, you never know how many ripples will hit the shore, or how many times and the things they might affect. God knows, God Bless you all.
Good Father Buffalo I am Paul "Cosmic Buffalo" La Bonte.
Are you nuts? Sweet Joe and Toubo were BOTH dearly departed in 2012--not "up there" for this show. Great memories you have, though...mine are also so beautiful.
That story brought me to tears. My dad listened to these guys all the time in the 70 s and 80s. I left for the service in 82. My dad and I have had a very strained relationship over the last 40 years. Decades without talking or seeing each other. I came to this and it feels good. Again your story was so sweet
MAYBE THEY ARE NOT AS WE REMEMBER THEM OR MAYBE OUR MEMORY IS NOT AS WE'D LIKE IT TO BE. BUT THESE GENTLEMEN ARE SINGING THEIR HEARTS OUT AND WE OWE THEM THE RESPECT THEY DESERVE. IT ALSO OCCURS TO ME THAT THE ACOUSTICS ARE LESS THAN PERFECT. I HOPE PEOPLE ARE KINDER TO YOU AND ME THAN SOME OF YOUR COMMENTS ARE TO THEM. SPEAKING FOR MYSELF, I ENJOYED LISTENING TO THIS CONCERT.
Although Jerry Lawson has not yet taken legal action against these men for their unauthorized use of The Persuasions’ name, I thought you might, for the sake of historical accuracy (in other words the truth, not “alternative facts”), want to be educated.
Dave Revels , who is the lead singer of this group, profits from and exploits Jerry Lawson’s arrangements, productions, and indeed his Persuasions legacy without any acknowledgement of Lawson. He never reveals that his group, which features only two original members still (Jimmy Hayes, bass, and Jayotis Washington, who sang only very occasional leads) consists of impersonators, and is not the institution that recorded 25 albums over 40 years.
Revels even copies Lawson’s lead singing at his whim, which must confuse less discerning audience members unaware that Lawson is no longer with the group. Having two originals apparently gives Revels the excuse to misrepresent this group of (four or five different) revolving singers as “The Persuasions.” No, this is not a case of musicians merely being replaced when members leave an established group. This is akin to Mick Jagger leaving the Rolling Stones, being replaced by an imitator, and the group continuing to be booked as The Rolling Stones. This injustice is perpetrated by Revels..
The Persuasions were known for a distinct sound characterized largely by their lead singer’s signature baritone over 25 albums of original vocal arrangements and production. The group of men using the name, “Persuasions,” attempt to replicate these arrangements, as I said, though it’s a pale imitation. Most egregiously, Revels and his crew had the sheer audacity to record album tributes to U-2 and Bob Dylan that do not in any way suggest the tradition, excellence, dignity of The Persuasions’ recorded legacy. I do hope you will see to it that the truth about these masqueraders will be made known.
Julie, being one of Jerry's biggest fans, I hate to take issue with you, but the fact is that Jerry left the group when three original members were still remaining with it. At that time, he lost any right to take any legal action against the group for the continued use of the "Persuasions" name. At that time, Sweet Joe, Jimmy, and Jayotis were 60% of the original group, 75% if you take the group as having still existed after Toubo's death.I love Jerry and his voice, and I was proud of the way that he continued to be a viable lead singer for the group till he left, ostensibly to retire from show business...but I saw the group after his departure, and they were indeed still the Persuasions as they had been--much like the Rolling Stones were after the death of Brian Jones--or the Persuasions after the death of Toubo. One could argue that the Persuasions were no longer "The Persuasions" after Toubo's death, since Jerry (and Jimmy and Joe as well) told me that he was the true glue that held the group's sound together (yes, Jerry--you yourself told me he was the man who made the Persuasions "The Persuasions")--but Jerry's departure did not signal the end of the Persuasions any more than Toubo's death did.And so, taking the 75% figure following Toubo's 1988 death, there is still a 50% percentage of "original members" within the group. (One might argue that the 75% figure is more accurate, since although the Persuasions were fairly well-known in the 1970s-80s, they attained their biggest audience after they appeared in Spike Lee's film after Toubo's death.) With Jerry only as a 20% (one out of the original five) or 25% (one out of the remaining four) member, he still would have no right to "claim" the "Persuasions" name, since he left of his own volition in 2003, while the three remaining members kept the name and toured--very beautifully--after that time.One might also ask--did Jerry himself trademark the name "The Persuasions"? If he did not, then how is he--one member, albeit the lead voice--more entitled to use the name "The Persuasions"--or to "take legal action against these men for their unauthorized use of The Persuasions’ [sic] name" than Jayotis and Jimmy are? The very idea is ludicrous. Kinda like "The Allman Brothers Band" not being able to use that name after Duane Allman died...or, sillier still, after Dickie Betts died.And, yes, Jerry, as you told Sharon Stone, this is NOT the same group she saw in Boston in 1975. Neither was the group I saw in 2002, with Toubo missing--but it was still The Persuasions. Neither was the group I saw in 2010, with you missing--but it was still The Persuasions. Neither is this group, with Sweet Joe missing--but it is still The Persuasions. And Julie, while the U2 and Dylan albums are different from much of the Persuasions's legacy, so were the Zappa and Grateful Dead albums in which Jerry participated.For that matter, "A Cappella Dreams" was quite different from any previous Persuasions album (and one might say the same thing about "You're All I Want for Christmas," "On the Good Ship Lollipop," and "Sunday Morning Soul"--not to mention "Ships at Sea, Sailors and Shoes," if you want to point fingers). And if we want to talk about one person making a difference, well, let's look back to the "Chirpin'" album, on which Jayotis did not participate. Some critics think this is the ultimate Persuasions album. (Jay does not agree.) Should Jayotis sue for damages. or for the right to use the name "The Persuasions" because they recorded that album without his authorization or involvement?The facts are: The Persuasions are still "The Persuasions," with 40-50% of the original members remaining. At their "artistic peak," Jerry was only 20-25% of the Persuasions. The Persuasions were no less "The Persuasions" after Jerry's desertion than they were after Toubo's death. "The Persuasions," as it is today, is still a completely viable entity--no matter what you, or Jerry, or anyone else thinks--as evidenced by the release of the new album where the Persuasions perform with the Barenaked Ladies--which album (one might argue) is making their name better-known than it was before--which means that "The Persuasions" (as they are now) are more famous than "The Persuasions" as they were before Jerry deserted them--and more entitled to use the name than even the original five-man group.One other thought, Jerry--and I don't mean this to be cruel--your albums after you left the Persuasions have been nowhere near as repeatedly-listenable as all those great Capitol, Elektra, and Rounder/Flying Fish LPs. They're not bad, but the Persuasions albums--even those after your departure--are the classics. If you're interested, perhaps you should bill yourself as "Jerry Lawson (formerly of The Persuasions)"--at least you can use their current success to draw attention to your less-than-stellar recordings since you left them.
Whoever you are, you have no idea of the truth. You were not there. You have no idea what the real break up was about. No idea why Jerry left. You have no idea who Toubo and Jay were in the context of the group. You were not in the room, back stage, in the meetings, in the cars, in the hotels with The Persuasions to know what and why.. It was all very private and never disclosed in public. I WAS THERE. Jerry was the one who took the high road and intentionally lied to the press in EVERY interview as to why he left in order not to disparage the group. You really need to ask yourself what makes you think you have the right to comment at all as to what happened. The fact that you even believe that Toubo was the glue who held the group together speaks volumes as to what you do not know. And with what you do not know we could build a brand new world.
This is obviously written by someone who met and thinks he knows, or knew, Jerry Lawson, and has an axe to grind. Such a puny, petulant, subjective comment is an obvious attempt to insult and degrade. The fact---not opinion---is that the two or three albums recorded by the group largely consisting of ringers calling itself “The Persuasions” bear no resemblance to any of the approximately 25 albums by the original group. They are completely different in terms of style, arrangement, singing, atmosphere. People are free to enjoy them, of course. The tragic thing is that anyone would conflate these ringer-heavy albums, arranged by one Dave Revels, with the originals. Yes, my subjective opinion is that these recent albums not only do not hold a candle to those by the original group, where Jerry sang almost all the leads, and arranged/produced, or co-arranged/produced, but that they are just absolutely dreadful. Travesties. They also do not remotely compare, in my view, with the exquisite work Jerry did on his album with the San Francisco a cappella group, Talk of the Town, for example. Note that the person who posted this comment refers to Jerry’s “recordings” since leaving the crumbling remains of the original Persuasions. By that statement, he includes Jerry’s wonderfully reviewed---acclaimed, by all accounts---solo album with instrumental backing, “Just a Mortal Man,” produced by Eric Brace. How one can compare an a cappella album to an album by a soloist with a band, I have no idea. This exposes the lack of thinking on the part of the commenter, if not lack of intelligence.
P.S. Dave Revels, or Bart, or is it Fred or John Ng? your post was read to Jerry Lawson He is so humble and so much smarter and high minded than you'll ever know.. he just laughed and said "God Bless Him"
No Jerry Lawson no Persuasions! Jerry had a strong lead voice!
Couldn’t agree more. I was lucky enough to see them in a very small venue in Hollywood in the 70’s.
@@in2food Saw them a few times no doubt Jerry Lawson was the perfect for the group although others could lead! UP ON THE ROOF!
@@roberttaylor6694 I messaged with his sweet wife a few times about 10 years ago. She was acting as his manager at a time.
@@in2food I grew up in North Philly where street corner singing was the norm it had died out then one I heard about a group called ThePersuasions for me the rest was history!
RINGTONE
People on here bitching about how it's not the original lineup. Take your grievances up with god and his choice on human lifespan, shut the fuck up and enjoy the music. These guys sound great.
The latest edition of the group is really good but I still miss Jerry Lawson`s lead vocals
Amen~!
Love to hear from the Persuasions. Miss Jerry and Joe saw them many times in Beantown. These may not be the original (original sound) members but they did a good job. I would listen to a good tribute group just to hear their music.
+john lawrence flat a s a pancake. Embarrassing
I represent Jerry Lawson, the original lead singer, arranger and producer of The Persuasions over 40 years and 25 albums. You might, for the sake of historical accuracy appreciate knowing that the who call themselves The Persuasions are not The Persuasions. They are what is known in the industry as a tribute band.
Dave Revels , who is the ring leader of these impostors, profits from Jerry Lawson’s arrangements, productions and indeed his legacy and without any acknowledgement of Lawson. He never reveals that this group features only one original member. One who sang very occasional leads. Revels even copies Lawson’s lead singing at his whim, which must confuse less discerning audience members. Having one original member apparently gives Revels the chutzpah to misrepresent this group of four to six different revolving singers as “The Persuasions.” This is not a case of musicians merely being replaced when members leave an established group. This is akin to Mick Jagger leaving the Rolling Stones, being replaced by an imitator, and the group continuing to be booked as The Rolling Stones.
The Persuasions are known for a distinct sound characterized largely by their lead singer’s signature baritone, the blend he created and his unique vocal arrangements. The group of men using the name, “Persuasions,” attempt to replicate these arrangements, though it’s a pale imitation. Most egregiously, Revels and his crew had the sheer audacity to record album tributes to U-2 and Bob Dylan that do not in any way suggest the tradition, excellence, dignity of The Persuasions’ recorded legacy.
But do not feel bad about being duped, as many in the industry have and are being deceived currently. Most people associated with these impostors are interested only in profits. The truth about these masqueraders will become headline news in the near future. The public must not be misled into thinking they are witnessing the original Persuasions, the original “Kings of A Cappella.”
For anyone watching this who is interested in facts please note this is not the original group who were known for their signature sound that made them The Persuasions. Here you have only 2 original members Jimmy Hayes on the far right and Jayotis Washington in the center. Their original lead singer, arranger and producer Jerry Lawson for 40 years and 22 albums left the group in 2003. Joe Russell passed away in 2012 and Herbert Rhoad passed away in the 80's. For facts: wwwdotjerrylawsondotbiz
did they do Good Times?
Gebriel Abebe Abebe Balcha I went through it all. I do not believe they did.
+Gebriel Abebe Abebe Balcha 9 This is not The Original Persuasions who did Good Times. These guys are impostors who haven't been sued yet for slandering and tainting the legendary Persuasions
+Jack Ries ( Yes, I know for a fact The real Persuasions did Good Times. This is not them. My husband is the original lead singer and that is who you hear on "Good Times" )
julie713
Yes
Was that the woman from “the country hip hop”? 🤣 she always introduced them as “the king of a capella” singular and then backed it up by saying “the persuasion” also singular 😹
👍👏❤️
Nowhere as good as the Original Persuasions, but, not bad
Number ONE singers of genuine Street Conner Acupella for the past five decades!
+dave Drolett This is not The Persuasions you are thinking of.
The group of the same name I'm thinking was cutting records back in the late 1960's . I stand corrected. Thank you Julie. However: This acupella group we have here on YT , are certainly damn good at what their doing.
Dave my husband is Jerry Lawson, original lead singer, arranger and producer of The Persuasions you remember. They made about 25 albums with them and left in 2003. For one of many reasons, one being they lost their voices and ability to harmonize. I'm glad you enjoy these impostors, however not to be mean, but I've heard 7 year olds with more talent. This group is so flat and lifeless it is disturbing to one who is accustomed to true talent.
also if you want to hear the difference between these punch drunk singers and the real thing listen to Jerry Lawson with his new a cappella group " Jerry Lawson & Talk of the Town" if you want to email me I'll send you some real singing- julie713@cox.net
+julie713 I hear the difference between both groups. That said, each group has genuine talent. The above has that original old style sound from the fifty's primarily sung within city tenement hallway, to enhance the level of harmony. However : Lawson's group is more fined tuned sounding more professional. Certainly that's all good compared to our currant sound of rap. Some believe rap has changed two generations into a legion of one's own mind. Thank you Julie, for your enlightenment of the real deal.
haters....yer missin' the point......its the human voice......unique.....
I only recognize the bass singer.
This is a Persuasions tribute group. Not The Persuasions.
@@JulieL that is the orginal Jimmy Hayes at this time a couple if the orginals are dead
Where is Mr Lawson?? Jimmy Hayes is there... Are they drunk
+Dove77 Smaw Jerry Lawson, left them in 2003. This sis a great example of why Jerry left. pitiful.
These are not The Persuasions. It is a tribute group with a couple of original members. They are an insult to the originals and the man who created all the arrangements they sing
Lawson. Where are you?
Louis Ferri Lawson is right here www dot Jerry Lawson Dot Biz
The Persuasions don't need Jerry. He got big headed and wanted the name changed to Jerry Lawson & The Persuasions. He also was doing 85% of the leads. Now the leads are spread among the five singers.
+John Ng You do not know Jerry Lawson personally if you think he could be big headed. He did not sing 85% of the leads he sang 99% of the leads because he was the lead singer, arranger, producer and leader. and that was the agreement when they got together in 1965. If these impostors really cared about the legacy they would be billed as a tribute band. Ego is really the devil. Instant karma may not be so instant at times, but it will get us in the end.
Julie,
I do know The Persuasions personally. I am THEE Asian Persuasion. I sing the finale, "In The Still of The NIght" in Japanese. Jerry & I even talked about releasing the song as a single. You'll see me in their doc movie, "Spread The Word" 1996 (?) singing that song in the finale. I went to Aussie with them in 1994 & have been all over the US with them. I've been sing with them for 24 years. Julie I have shown my qualifications. According to the late Joe Russel they were to spread out the lead vocals. Jerry also tried to take Joe's solo songs away from him. Unfortunately and sadly Jerry didn't even show up at Joe's funeral. They are still singing with two originals singers, Jay & Jimmy. How can they now be a tribute group. I love the group even more now with Dave Revels. The lead songs are spread among all the singers.
John Ng You do not know Jerry Lawson personally. You have no idea of the truth. You only know what you have been told by others. You were not there in the privacy of their time together. You have no idea what they really think about you and your behavior. You have no idea about the content and truth of their relationships with each other. You do not know a thing about Jerry Lawson, the man. You only know whatever story that he created for a fan like you. What you think you know is not the truth. It's nice that you receive so much joy from your connection with those folks.
Julie, you either need to learn math or do a recount--99% is much less accurate than 85%. What does THAT say about whose ego?
Is the bass singer jimmy hayes dead in 2018
He died on May 18, 2017.
These guys are okay, but they are not The Persausions these guys are imitators. They shouldn't be called the Persausions they should be called The Imitators
this is so embarrassing and such an insult to The Persuasions' legacy created and held together by Jerry Lawson for 40 years. These guys should really quit or call themselves a tribute band. And sadly they are not even a good tribute band. so sad
+julie713 -no jerry...sad
No Jerry, No Joe, No oomph. Not the signature sound of the real Persuasions. Sad. They need to call themselves a tribute band. We've heard elementary school kids do better.
This tribute band led by Dave Revels cannot even come close to the sound of The Persuasions. That is why they are merely a tribute band- now here is a group that can really sing...
ua-cam.com/video/1Pl_l4l3SLg/v-deo.html
The Persuasions.net
they should get a new name and be advertised as a tribute band like all the other groups doing the repertoire of original groups.You Tube viewers give yourself a treat and listen to the real Persuasions and you too will understand.
All groups change as the original singers die off, The Temptations Delfonics, Kool and the Gang, Earth wind and fire, etc.
embarrassing mess of impostors and tainting the legacy of The Persuasions.
I've Known This Group For A Many Year's And Let Me Tell You They Are one Of The Best Groups That Have Ever Grace A Stage Keep It Going My Brothers Your Music Will Never Die God Bless.