Inducted:
2023
Category:
Performer
Inducted By:
New Edition and more
The Spinners fused Motown roots with a Philly soul sound, thriving on both the R&B and pop charts. With producer/songwriter Thom Bell, the quintet perfected a blend of silky harmony, dance grooves, lush orchestration and, most importantly, classic, unforgettable songs with emotional depth. Bell wrote for their distinctive voices, as individuals and a fivesome, helping them score hit after ‘70s hit.
Induction
Impact
Signature Sound
The Spinners’ sound evolved from gritty, Motown-style, late ‘60s R&B to elegant, orchestrated Philly pop soul. Benefitting from ace ‘70s songwriters, particularly producer Thom Bell, these five peerless singers meshed their irresistible blend of distinctive voices into sophisticated harmonies, turning out timeless, exuberant song after song.
Produced and cowritten by Stevie Wonder, this song was the Spinners’ only Motown hit after being on the label since ‘64.
From the Museum
Spinner Style
Tenor vocalist Bobbie Smith, a member of the Spinners from 1954 until his 2013 death, wore this showman’s attire in 1979. Smith’s suit was designed by Harvey Louis Krantz and his shoes were designed by Giorgio Brutini.
Lead vocalist on such hits as “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love” and “I’ll Be Around,” Smith wowed audiences with his dazzling stage presence.
From the Museum
Spinner Style
Tenor vocalist Bobbie Smith, a member of the Spinners from 1954 until his 2013 death, wore this showman’s attire in 1979. Smith’s suit was designed by Harvey Louis Krantz and his shoes were designed by Giorgio Brutini.
Lead vocalist on such hits as “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love” and “I’ll Be Around,” Smith wowed audiences with his dazzling stage presence.
They were unbelievable singers with unbelievable songs. They made a gigantic impact on pop and R&B music.
Daryl Hall
Daryl Hall and John Oates
2024 Hall of Fame Essay
"While the Spinners were unquestionable hitmakers and storytellers of the highest order, many of their lesser-known songs lay bare and uplifted the African American experience."
– Herb Powell
Check It OutInfluence
Influences
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The Spinners
sealed with a signature
This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.
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