In between his work on his solo and LeVert albums, Gerald took time to produce a number of major artists (with Marc Gordon and current writing partner, Edwin "Tony" Nicholas), including The O'Jays, Stephanie Mills, James Ingram, Miki Howard, Troop, Anita Baker and Barry White. "I think people saw through us the willingness to endure the scrapes that families go through, and still come out stronger than ever." One of the album's many highlights was a heart stopping version of the classic ballad, "Wind Beneath My Wings." "The whole thing took on a life of its own," says Gerald. The album became one of those rare musical moments that created an entirely new audience for Gerald, one where families could point to him as a new role model that symbolized the importance of family. So in 1995, Gerald and his father released the critically acclaimed "Father & Son" album. After the success of "Baby Hold On To Me" (duet with his father, Eddie LeVert) from the "Private Line" album, people kept saying "you guys should do an album of songs together" and they thought about it and said "Why not?" Just when it seemed that there was nothing else he could do to top himself, Gerald did it again. The album achieved platinum status and put Gerald at the top of the charts again, with the David Foster produced single, "I'd Give Anything." In 1994, he released his second solo album "Groove On," which catapulted him into stardom. "Private Line" went gold and garnered two number one hits. "I was very nervous about the release of "Private Line," because I didn't know how people would receive it or react to me singing by myself." He did not have to be nervous for long. Though the group was successful, Gerald LeVert still wanted more, and in 1991 with full blessing from his group members, released "Private Line" his first solo album. LeVert's coupling with Atlantic Records proved to be very successful and resulted in numerous number one singles, six gold albums, two Soul Train Music awards and a Grammy nomination. ![]() The group made a name for themselves in the Cleveland area and in 1985 landed a record deal with an independent label, which helped them catch the attention of Atlantic Records, with whom they signed in 1986. He gave us guidance and advice, but that was it," says Gerald. "People think that because my dad was Eddie LeVert that it was easy, but it wasn't. My dad tried to talk me out of it, but it was no use, my mind was made up," recalls Gerald.Īfter many years of mimicking his father's group, Gerald and his younger brother Sean, along with their childhood friend, Marc Gordon formed the group, LeVert. "During those times, I knew that singing and performing was what I wanted to do. ![]() Summers spent touring with The O'Jays allowed him to meet R&B legends like James Brown and one of his major musical influences, the late Marvin Gaye. Gerald LeVert began singing as a young child, heavily influenced by watching his father in action.
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