Image Credit: Gems/Redferns/Getty Images“General” Norman Johnson, lead singer of Detroit soul trio Chairmen of the Board, has passed away. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that the Virginia-born artist died Oct. 13 at age 67. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our great friend and hero, General Johnson,” a message posted on the Chairmen’s official site reads. “He held a special place in his heart for each and every one of his family, friends, and fans. He will be surely missed, but his music will stand.”
The Chairmen were among the first acts signed to Holland/Dozier/Holland’s new Invictus label after the legendary songwriting team parted ways with Motown Records in the late 1960s. They scored a major hit with 1970′s “Give Me Just a Little More Time,” a classic of pleading, purring, trilling soul that remains in heavy rotation on many oldies stations today. While the group never again matched that song’s commercial performance, they continued to tour for decades with particular success in the South and were noted for their work in the Carolinas’ regional “beach music” scene.
Check out “Give Me Just a Little More Time” after the jump, and please join the Music Mix in sending sincere condolences to General Johnson’s family and friends.
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“Carolina Girls..Best in world! You’re so fine, girl, you’re one of a kind, sweet Carolina girls!”
Our anthem in the Carolinas..so sad!
I just found out about ‘General’ Norman Johnson. I was on Youtube and was listening to some great songs and saw Chairman of the Board’s songs . Does anyone remember ‘I’m on my way to a better place?’ i haven’t heard this song since it was a hit in the early 70s. Brought tears to my eyes. I didn’t really understand the words until now. Really poignant.
I remember the song well. I still own the album. Destination is love come go with me there…
What a sad day. I grew up in high school listening to the General and the rest of the band and have listened to beach music all of my life. Thanks for the memories!
I was so sad to hear about General Johnson…I loved going to see Chairman, they put on a great show! I am a sad Carolina Girl.
He was a wonderful artist and a giant of a man. “It Will Stand”
I saw Chairmen of the Board every Homecoming at Appalachian State. (80′s–90′s) Loved them, loved his voice.
I am very sad for this loss. When I hear “Carolina Girls” I am proud to be a North Carolina. You will be missed Wanda
I am so sad. I grew up listening to his music and often went to their shows at the HOB. The General was so talented in his vocals and as an entertainer! He will be missed! Will continue to listen to the Great General Johnson and The Chairman of the Board!!
A bright light,now shines in heaven just as he did on earth! Thanks for your advise,friendship. Rest in peace! Harrison Kennedy
For years we’ve been fans, checking tour schedules to see if any concerts might coincide with one of our trips to St. Simons Island, GA. It never worked, I’m sad to see he’s gone, without ever having the chance to see him perform in the flesh with COTB. Harrison, we’ll come to see you around Southern Ontario. Such a shock & so sad. Performers die frequently, but a scant few I will really miss- General Johnson is one of that very small group.
A way of life, a way to party, General Johnson was the best. A sad day for all Carolina folks that a true showman has passed away.
General Johnson my all time greatest will be truely missed, but his style and music will live on in our heart and minds. thank you to his family for sharing him with us over the many years. He is in a better place now. May God bless you all.
I was truely shocked to hear the news late Wednesday on cnn. My deepest sympathies go out to the family. he will be surely missed. I loved all his songs, but most of all I loved Patches most. May God bless you all during this time and the years to come.
This is truly a sad day for all that knew the General and enjoyed his music and friendship. Having known the guys for over 35 years, I feel like a part of my family is gone. I think of all the great music he has given us, he was particularly proud of his Christmas song King of Kings. He told me the last time I saw him just before that song was released that it was the best thing he has ever written. What a gentleman and and talent, we will miss him greatly!
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, Kenny and Danny. Love you guys!
I am deeply sadden by the loss of a person so committed to his music and his love for his fans. General, you will be missed!!!!!!!!
Best vocalist of all time including everyone. He’s the man and will be the man – his music, indeed, “it will stand.” What a bummer. He’s provided so much pleasure and fun to me so much of my life. Whenver I am down in the dumps – his music cheers me up – 39-21-40 shake, to me, is the greatest recording of all time. I am sure everyone has their favorites – General Norman Johnson was my favorite and General, keep everyone cheered up in heaven. Thanks for all your work.
I will really miss General from 1994-1996. I was a member of his crew and that man showed and taught me alot about stage presence. Rest In Peace
the general has given me memories to last a life time. they all make me smile!!!! hearing him sing i’am on my way to a better place with jesus in my heart i’am on my way to a better place–as ususal he said it best!!! thanks general for the memories!!!!!