The Emotions

In the 1950’s in Chicago, Illinois, Joe and Lillian Hutchinson began raising a family filled with love, creativity and talent. Born in this decade were three ladies considered by the rest of us as true legends and national treasures collectively known as The Emotions. Jeanette, Wanda and Sheila Hutchinson began singing at ages three, four and five under the tutelage of their father. Joe Hutchinson, Sr. had his little girls singing from sun up to sun down. This is the foundation of the intricate harmonies and solid musicianship that has given The Emotions their sound which is recognized by so many today.

In the early years, the Hutchinson girls sang gospel with their dad in churches and on radio shows all around their native Chicago. Joe, Jeanette, Wanda & Sheila even performed for the legendary Mahalia Jackson. They also appeared on a local television show, “The Jerry Van Dyke Show,” in Terre Haute, Indiana. In addition to this appearance, The Hutchinsons recorded several commercials for Al Abrams Pontiac. During this time the Hutchinson act appeared under several names including, Three Ribbons and a Bow, The Heavenly Sunbeams and The Hutchinson Sunbeams.

As the later part of the 1960’s rolled around, The Hutchinson Sunbeams evolved into what we know today as The Emotions. Jeanette, Wanda and Sheila recorded several singles for local labels giving the group more notoriety in their region of the country. Pervis Staples and The Staples Singers were very influential in the next step that was taken by the act. The group appeared in a talent contest at the Regal Theater in Chicago. That evening, The Emotions won the contest and were signed to the Stax / Volt label.

The Emotions released album after successful album from 1969 through the ‘90s with hits including: “So I Can Love You,” “Show Me How,” “Flowers,” “I Don’t Wanna Lose Your Love,” “You’ve Got The Right To Know” and “Best Of My Love.”

Many honors and awards were presented to the group in several countries including America’s prestigious Grammy Award and the American Music Award.

By the late 1990’s, the group was continuing to perform and was in demand for many Ol’ Skool Shows. The Emotions made their presence known and continue to do so up until today. Not only have The Emotions been appearing, but also their songs are being picked up and placed on many motion picture soundtracks such as “Summer Of Sam” and “Boogie Nights.”

In March 2001, The Emotions were honored by Prestige Entertainment / The Make a Wish Foundation with the 2001 Prestige Award.

Get ready to dance, be happy and love ‘cause Wanda, Sheila and Pamela are back!!!