Not Your Ordinary Entertainer
None of the history of Chicago’s Soul scene would be complete without discussing a chapter on Marzette Griffith. Having earned notoriety as a well-polished performer in both the music and dance industries, he has recorded numerous songs as a solo artist and with his former group, Essence. As the lead singer of Essence, he propelled two of their singles, “Sweet Fools,” and “I Ain’t Much But I’m All I Got,” into the Billboard Chart’s Top 100. Released on the Epic Records subsidiary, Cleveland International, these R&B classics were produced by Chicago legend, Willie Henderson, along with Frank Rand and Grammy winner, Jim Peterik, of Ides of March (“Vehicle”) and Survivor (“Eye of the Tiger”) fame. Mr. Griffith and Mr. Peterik formed a friendship and musical alliance that remains to this day. They sometimes write, perform, produce, and arrange songs together. Another one of Griffith’s longtime friends and writing partners is Grammy nominee, Paul Richmond (writer of “Shining Star” by The Manhattans). Mr. Griffith’s smooth, melodic style and broad vocal range have been heard on several levels within the entertainment industry. He has performed for radio and television stations such as Chicago’s own V-103, WGN Channel 9’s Morning Segment, events such as The Black Woman’s Expo, and aboard cruise ships.