Band Bio: Classic Soul brought to you by The Fellas
The Fellas were formed in the winter of 1989. Initially known as VISION, the group consisted of founding members, Joe Rivera III (lead vocals/...
Read More »
Band Bio: Classic Soul brought to you by The Fellas
The Fellas were formed in the winter of 1989. Initially known as VISION, the group consisted of founding members, Joe Rivera III (lead vocals/1st tenor), Luis Mercado (lead vocals/baritone), Ricardo Wright (lead vocals/1st tenor) and Andrew 'Drew' Rhoden (lead vocals/2nd tenor). Due to the lack of work coming for the group, Luis decided to leave the group. The remaining trio auditioned various singers until the person of Anthony Cooper, Jr. became the right fit in July 1991. Anthony was a colleague of Ricardo's at the National Black Theater in Harlem.
Along with a new member came along a search for a new name for the group. Ricardo Wright came up with the name, The Fellas.
The Fellas were patterned after the Temptations, where everyone could step out front and sing lead, without compromising the harmony. Not wanting to be known as an "oldies" group or a tribute group, The Fellas are also armed with original material catered to the adult audience. Artists that influenced The Fellas (besides Motown acts) are The O'Jays, The Manhattans, The Spinners, Rachelle Farrell, Will Downing and Phil Perry, to name a few.
Today in 2010, original members Ricardo Wright, Anthony cooper, Jr and Joe Rivera III have reunited to perpetuate Classic Soul music, along with Rick Brown and Joquaye Devonish who alternate in contributing their vocal talents. Classic Soul returns from Detroit, MI, Philadelphia, PA & NYC
Read Less »