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The Sweet Inspirations

From the Queen of Soul, to the King of Rock and Roll, THE SWEET INSPIRATIONS have provided the background vocals on more million-seller singles than any other group.

Unsurpassed in the industry, they were the most sought after background vocalists by producers to inspire their artists to do their best work. In addition to their work on some of Aretha Franklin’s greatest recordings in the late 60’s, their numerous recordings and live performances with Elvis Presley to their work on most of Dionne Warwick’s recordings produced by Burt Bacarach, THE SWEET INSPIRATIONS also had hits and releases under their own name.

In 1967 Cissy Houston, Myrna Smith, Estelle Brown & Sylvia Shemwell were offered their own recording contract at Atlantic Records where they ultimately released five albums and numerous singles, leading off with their 1968 chart topper, “SWEET INSPIRATION” which reached #5 on the R&B chart and #18 on the Pop chart.

The Sweet Inspirations became even more in demand for background sessions as their popularity climbed. Shuffling between recordings and live performances with Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and Elvis Presley as well as their own commitments.

Though Cissy Houston left the group after their last Atlantic Recording, the original members Myrna Smith, Estelle Brown & Sylvia Shemwell recorded an excellent album for Stax Records in Memphis in 1973. After this - their final recording - the girls went their separate ways to pursue individual careers.

Reunited in 1994 to perform on selected shows (including a tribute to Elvis Presley), the original trio of Estelle, Myrna and Sylvia were joined by Portia Griffin who previously had sung with Herbie Hancock, Bobbie Brown, Jeffrey Osborne (for 18 years) and most recently The Black Crows.

Interested in booking the Sweet Inspirations for a performance or recording project?  Contact us