Have you ever heard of The Intruders? They were a legendary group from Philadelphia that helped shape the sound of R&B music in the 1960s. Their style, which incorporated elements of doo-wop and soul, made them a hit with audiences all across the country and cemented their legacy as one of the most influential groups of that era.
But who were the original members of The Intruders, you might ask? Well, the group was originally formed by four young musicians from Philly – Sam “Little Sonny” Brown, Eugene “Bird” Daughtry, Phillip “Phil” Terry, and Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards. They were all childhood friends who shared a love of music and a dream of making it big.
It wasn’t long before The Intruders caught the attention of record labels and fans alike, and they quickly rose to fame with hits like “Together”, “Gonna Be Strong”, and “Cowboys to Girls”. Their smooth harmonies and catchy melodies made them a fan favorite and helped establish Philly soul as a genre of its own. And while the group has gone through different lineups over the years, it’s those original members who will always be remembered as the ones who started it all.
The History of The Intruders
The Intruders were an American R&B group formed in Philadelphia in 1960. The founding members were Eugene “Bird” Daughtry, Phil Terry, Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards, and baritone singer Richard “Little Sonny” Brown.
- Eugene “Bird” Daughtry was the lead singer and also played the piano.
- Phil Terry sang second tenor.
- Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards was the first tenor and also played the guitar.
- Richard “Little Sonny” Brown was the baritone singer and also played the bass guitar.
Together, they began performing at local parties and clubs and gained popularity in Philadelphia. Their first hit single, “A Love That’s Real,” was released in 1961, and they went on to have several other successful singles throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Their music was known for its soulful harmonies and romantic lyrics, and they were often compared to other popular R&B groups of the time, such as The Temptations and The Four Tops.
Unfortunately, the group faced several tragedies throughout their career. In 1970, Little Sonny passed away from cancer, and in 1974, Big Sonny was murdered in Chicago. Despite these setbacks, The Intruders continued to perform and record music, with new members joining the group over the years.
| Original Members | Position |
|---|---|
| Eugene “Bird” Daughtry | Lead singer, piano |
| Phil Terry | Second tenor |
| Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards | First tenor, guitar |
| Richard “Little Sonny” Brown | Baritone singer, bass guitar |
In 2012, The Intruders were inducted into the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame, a tribute to Philadelphia’s rich musical history and the artists who have made significant contributions to the industry.
Today, their music continues to be played and appreciated by fans of R&B and soul music. The original members may no longer be with us, but their legacy lives on through their music and the impact they had on the genre.
The Beginning of The Intruders’ Career
The Intruders are a legendary R&B group that originated in Philadelphia in the 1960s. They were originally comprised of four members who started making music together in their teenage years. The group began singing together in the hallways of their high school, and later performed at local talent shows and events. Their unique style and sound quickly caught the attention of music producers, and before they knew it, The Intruders were on their way to becoming one of the most iconic soul groups of all time.
- Sam “Little Sonny” Brown
- Eugene “Bird” Daughtry
- Phil Terry
- Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards
The original line-up of The Intruders consisted of Sam “Little Sonny” Brown, Eugene “Bird” Daughtry, Phil Terry, and Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards. Little Sonny and Bird were the lead vocalists of the group, while Phil and Big Sonny provided backing vocals and harmonies. Together, the four members created a unique and unforgettable sound that would later make them famous.
Although they faced many challenges in their early years, The Intruders persevered and continued to make music together. They eventually signed with the iconic R&B label, Gamble Records, and released their first album, “The Intruders Are Together”, in 1967. The album was a huge success, and included hits like “Together”, ” (We’ll Be) United”, and “I’ll Always Love My Mama”.
Through their hard work and dedication to their craft, The Intruders became one of the most beloved and influential soul groups of all time. Their music continues to inspire and move people today, nearly 60 years after they first began making music together.
| Original Members | Position in Group |
|---|---|
| Sam “Little Sonny” Brown | Lead Vocalist |
| Eugene “Bird” Daughtry | Lead Vocalist |
| Phil Terry | Backing Vocals/Harmonies |
| Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards | Backing Vocals/Harmonies |
The original members of The Intruders were an incredibly talented group of musicians who created a sound that would go on to influence countless artists in the years to come. Through their hard work and dedication to their craft, they managed to overcome numerous obstacles and become one of the most iconic R&B groups of all time.
The Singles and Albums Produced by The Intruders
The Intruders produced a wide array of hit singles and albums during their successful career in the music industry. Their soulful and funky style of music captured the hearts of many music lovers in the 1960s and 1970s, earning them several accolades and recognitions.
- Singles:
- “Gonna Be Strong”
- “Together”
- “I’ll Always Love My Mama”
The Intruders recorded and released many hit singles during their career, but some of their most popular ones include “Gonna Be Strong,” “Together,” and “I’ll Always Love My Mama.” “Gonna Be Strong” peaked at #19 on the US R&B charts, while “Together” reached #9 on the same chart. “I’ll Always Love My Mama,” on the other hand, topped the US R&B charts, becoming the band’s most successful single.
Their music was known for its introspective lyrics, catchy hook lines, and soulful harmonies. The Intruders infused elements of gospel, jazz, and R&B into their music, often straddling the lines between different genres. They were also known for their smooth dance moves and signature outfits, making them a complete package in the eyes of their fans.
- Albums:
- The Intruders Are Together
- Save the Children
- Energy of Love
The Intruders also released several successful albums during their career. Some of their best-known albums include “The Intruders Are Together,” “Save the Children,” and “Energy of Love.” “The Intruders Are Together” featured some of their most popular singles and was a commercial success, reaching #15 on the US Billboard 200 chart.
“Save the Children” and “Energy of Love” also featured several hit singles and showcased the band’s musical versatility. The albums were critically acclaimed, with many music critics praising the band’s unique sound and innovative approach to creating music.
| Album | Release Date |
|---|---|
| The Intruders Are Together | 1967 |
| Save the Children | 1973 |
| Energy of Love | 1974 |
The Intruders were a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, delivering hit after hit and earning their place in the hearts of many music lovers. Their music continues to inspire and captivate till this day, cementing their place as legends in the world of soul and R&B.
The Intruders’ Legacy and Influence on Music
Formed in the mid-1960s in Philadelphia, The Intruders were a vocal R&B group that was signed to Gamble & Huff’s Philadelphia International Records. Initially, the group consisted of four members: Sam “Little Sonny” Brown, Eugene “Bird” Daughtry, Phillip “Phil” Terry, and Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards. The group’s soulful harmonies and slick dance moves quickly earned them a loyal following, both in their hometown and across the country.
- The Intruders’ music was marked by its smooth, soulful sound and romantic themes. Some of their biggest hits included “Cowboys to Girls,” “I’ll Always Love My Mama,” and “Together.”
- In addition to their successful recordings, The Intruders were known for their electrifying live shows. They were a popular concert draw, often performing alongside other top R&B acts of the day.
- The group’s influence on music can still be felt today. They helped to popularize the soulful, romantic style of R&B that came to be known as “Philadelphia Soul.” Their harmonies and melodies have been cited as an influence by numerous contemporary R&B and soul artists.
Despite some changes in the group’s lineup over the years, The Intruders continued to record and perform well into the 1980s. Their music remains popular among fans of classic R&B and soul, and their legacy as pioneers of Philadelphia Soul is secure.
To get a sense of The Intruders’ impact, take a look at this table of their chart-topping hits:
| Song Title | Year | Chart Position |
|---|---|---|
| “(We’ll Be) United” | 1968 | #43 (R&B) |
| “Cowboys to Girls” | 1968 | #1 (R&B); #6 (Pop) |
| “Together” | 1968 | #9 (R&B); #79 (Pop) |
| “I’ll Always Love My Mama” | 1973 | #6 (R&B); #36 (Pop) |
The Intruders left an indelible mark on the R&B and soul landscape, and their music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed to this day.
The Collaborations of The Intruders
The Intruders were a hit-making R&B and soul group that was active from the early 1960s to the mid-1970s. The original members were Eugene Bird (lead vocals), Phil Terry (second lead), Sam \”Little Sonny\” Brown (first tenor), and Robert \”Big Sonny\” Edwards (baritone). The group was famous for their unique harmonies and their ability to blend gospel and soul music, which became a signature sound for them.
- Collaboration with Gamble and Huff: In the late 1960s, The Intruders signed with Philadelphia International Records, which was co-founded by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. This collaboration resulted in the group’s biggest hits, including the iconic song \”I’ll Always Love My Mama.\” The song was a massive hit and a tribute to the power of motherly love, which was a common theme in the group’s music.
- Collaboration with Bobby Martin: Bobby Martin was a legendary producer-arranger who worked extensively with The Intruders. Martin helped the group to evolve their sound, transforming their music into a more sophisticated style that included lush string arrangements and intricate vocal harmonies. Together, they produced some of the group’s most memorable songs, such as \”Together,\” \”Sad Girl,\” and \”We’ll Be United.\”
- Collaboration with Thom Bell: In the early 1970s, The Intruders worked with Thom Bell, another renowned producer-arranger who helped them to create a more polished and refined sound. Bell integrated orchestral arrangements and lush strings into the group’s music, which helped to make their sound even more distinctive. Together, they produced the hits \”I Wanna Know Your Name\” and \”When We Get Married\” among others.
The Intruders’ collaborations with Gamble and Huff, Bobby Martin, and Thom Bell helped to establish them as one of the most successful R&B groups of the 1960s and 1970s. Their music continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists, and will surely remain timeless classics.
| Producer/Arranger | Notable Songs Produced |
|---|---|
| Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff | I’ll Always Love My Mama |
| Bobby Martin | To Be Happy is the Real Thing |
| Thom Bell | I Wanna Know Your Name |
Overall, The Intruders’ collaborations with these talented producers and arrangers helped to shape the sound of a generation and establish them as iconic voices of R&B and soul music.
The Members of The Intruders Throughout the Years
Formed in 1960, The Intruders are a Philadelphia-based soul group known for their tight harmonies and romantic ballads. The group has undergone various lineup changes throughout its history, with different members joining and leaving over the years. Here is a closer look at some of the original members of The Intruders:
- Eugene “Bird” Daughtry: Daughtry was the baritone lead singer and co-founder of The Intruders. He was known for his smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence. Daughtry sang lead on many of the group’s biggest hits, including “Cowboys to Girls” and “Together.”
- Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards: Edwards was the bass lead singer of The Intruders. He was known for his deep, rich voice and impeccable harmonies. Edwards sang lead on several of the group’s most popular songs, including “I’ll Always Love My Mama” and “Slow Drag.”
- Phil Terry: Terry was the tenor lead singer of The Intruders. He joined the group in 1962 and sang lead on many of their early recordings. Terry left The Intruders in the mid-1960s to pursue a solo career.
- Roger “Little Sonny” Ball: Ball was a tenor singer who joined The Intruders in the mid-1960s. He contributed backing vocals and occasionally sang lead on some of the group’s songs. Ball left The Intruders in the early 1970s to pursue a solo career.
- Robert Ferguson: Ferguson was a tenor singer who joined The Intruders in the early 1970s. He contributed backing vocals and occasionally sang lead on some of the group’s songs. Ferguson left The Intruders in the mid-1980s.
- Sam “Little Sammy” Brown: Brown was a tenor singer who joined The Intruders in the mid-1970s. He contributed backing vocals and occasionally sang lead on some of the group’s songs. Brown left The Intruders in the early 1980s.
As The Intruders continued to perform and record over the years, several other singers joined and left the group. Today, The Intruders continue to tour and perform, keeping alive the legacy of their classic soul sound.
The Intruders’ Achievements and Awards
The Intruders was a Philadelphia-based soul music group in the 1960s. The original members of The Intruders included Sam “Little Sonny” Brown, Eugene “Bird” Daughtry, Phil Terry, and Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards. These four talented musicians started their music career together in high school with the name of the group being the Four Intruders. They eventually shortened it to The Intruders.
- Their debut single, “We’ll Be United,” became a top 30 hit in the R&B charts in 1961. They followed this with a few other minor hits, but it wasn’t until 1968 that they really made their mark on the music industry with the release of their hit song, “Cowboys to Girls.” This song was a crossover success, reaching the top 10 on both the R&B and pop charts.
- The Intruders continued to produce hits throughout the 1970s with songs like “Together,” “I’ll Always Love My Mama,” and “I Wanna Know Your Name.” They were known for their smooth harmonies and their ability to blend soul and pop music together in a unique way.
- Despite their success, The Intruders never won a Grammy award. However, they were inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in 2013 for their contribution to the music industry, particularly in the soul genre.
The Intruders’ legacy lives on, as their music has been covered by numerous artists throughout the years. Their smooth harmonies and catchy tunes continue to inspire musicians today. Even though they never won a Grammy, their induction into the Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame is a testament to their impact on the music industry.
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame | 2013 |
The Intruders were pioneers in the soul music genre, and their contributions to music will never be forgotten.
Who Were the Original Members of the Intruders?
Q: Who were the original members of the Intruders?
A: The original members of The Intruders were Sam “Little Sonny” Brown, Eugene “Bird” Daughtry, Phil Terry, and Robert “Big Sonny” Edwards.
Q: When did the Intruders form as a group?
A: The Intruders formed in 1960 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Q: What type of music did the Intruders play?
A: The Intruders were known for their soulful R&B music style.
Q: What were some of the Intruders’ hit songs?
A: Some of the Intruders’ hit songs include “Cowboys to Girls,” “I’ll Always Love My Mama,” and “Together.”
Q: What happened to the original members of the Intruders?
A: Unfortunately, all of the original members of The Intruders have passed away.
Q: What legacy did the Intruders leave behind?
A: The Intruders left behind a legacy of soulful R&B music that continues to influence and inspire artists today.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to learn about the original members of The Intruders. Their soulful music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed decades after their formation. Feel free to check out our other articles on great artists from the past, and be sure to visit us again soon for more interesting topics.