Biography
The Enchanters were a Philadelphia-based vocal group formed in 1961 by soul singer Garnet Mimms, who had recently disbanded his previous ensemble, the Gainors. Mimms teamed up with Charles Boyer to create the group, which specialized in soul and R&B harmonies during the 1960s. They gained recognition for their emotive vocal style, led by Mimms' powerful voice, and released recordings that captured the era's transition from doo-wop to deeper soul expressions.[3][4][7]
The group operated primarily in the mid-1960s, producing music under various labels and contributing to the Philadelphia soul scene. While specific album details are limited in available records, their work reflected Mimms' shift toward gospel-infused soul, building on his earlier experiences. The Enchanters disbanded after the decade, with Mimms pursuing a notable solo career highlighted by hits like 'Cry Baby.'[3][4]
Their legacy endures as a key part of 1960s soul history, influencing the vocal group sound in R&B, though they remain somewhat obscure compared to contemporaries. Note that 'The Enchanters' also refers to other groups, such as a 1950s doo-wop act from Queens and a Chicago quintet led by Billy Butler, but the primary association is with Mimms' Philadelphia outfit.[1][2][5][7]
Fun Facts
- Garnet Mimms formed The Enchanters immediately after disbanding his prior group, the Gainors, marking a quick pivot in his career.[3]
- The name 'Enchanters' is shared by multiple unrelated acts, including a 1950s Queens doo-wop group and a Chicago quintet led by Billy Butler on Okeh Records.[7]
- Their Spotify popularity stands at 28, reflecting niche but enduring interest in their soul catalog.[context]
Musical Connections
Key Collaborators
- Garnet Mimms - lead vocalist and founder (group recordings (1960s)) [1961-1960s]
- Charles Boyer - co-founder and group member (group formation and performances) [1961]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| The Rhythm & Blues (78 RPM Collection) | 2010-12-01 | Album |
| Na Draiodoiri (Traditional Breton Music / Celtic Music from Brittany / Keltia Musique) | 1977 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Mambo Santa Mambo (Rockin' Little Christmas)
- I Should Be Loving You (Soul Power, Vol. 3)
- I Wanna Thank You (Best of Loma Records-Rise and Fall of a 1960's Soul Label)
- I Paid for the Party (Best of Loma Records-Rise and Fall of a 1960's Soul Label)
- I Should Be Loving You (Laugh Now, Cry Later: Chicano Lowrider Oldies 1959-1973)
- I Want to Be Loved (Best of Loma Records-Rise and Fall of a 1960's Soul Label)
- I Wanna Thank You
- I Should Be Loving You
- Cafe Bohemian (Jungle Exotica, Vol. 1)
- I Want to Be Loved (Doo Wop: Coast to Coast)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
the enchanters has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 18, 2025 | 20:06 | mambo santa mambo | R&Bw/ Your Cousin Dimitri |