The Persuasions

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–The Persuasions are an a cappella group who began singing together in Brooklyn, New York in the early 1960s and went on to produce numerous albums covering a wide range of musical genres. The five original members were Jerry Lawson, Joe 'Jesse' Russell, Jayotis Washington, Herbert 'Toubo' Rhoad, and Jimmy 'Bro' Hayes. Other members included Willie C. Daniels, Ray Sanders, and Bernard Jones (who currently performs with The Dubs). Reggie Moore, a noted vocalist from Washington, D.C. joined the group in 2005. The year 2007 marks the group's 45th year in the music industry. They have also performed for periods as a four-man group.

The Persuasions have enjoyed recognition from musicians outside the doo-wop or gospel community. Frank Zappa (who helped get them their first record contract), Joni Mitchell and the Grateful Dead are/were among their fans. The group opened concerts for both Mitchell and the Dead and later recorded tribute albums to Zappa (Frankly A Capella) and the Grateful Dead (Might as Well). They appeared on the album New Train by Paul Pena.

Their eclectic choice of material and clever, unique arrangements have been hallmarks of their recordings. Jerry Lawson seems to find his strongest inspiration from the songs of Sam Cooke; the best examples of which can be found on We Came to Play and Chirpin', the two albums considered by many to be their best. Toubo Rhoad, of the original members, died in the mid-1990s. Jerry Lawson left the group in 2003 to pursue a solo career and do some charitable work. Jerry is releasing his 23rd cd in 2007. This is his debut cd with his new a cappella group Jerry Lawson & Talk of the Town. The current members of the Persuasions are: