Some music groups shine briefly but leave a lasting impression. That’s the story of Five Flights Up, an R&B quintet best known for their 1970 hit “Do What You Wanna Do.” Though their time in the spotlight was short, their sound captured the spirit of early ’70s soul-pop.
Let’s take a closer look at the group’s history, music, and what made their hit so memorable.
| Artist Profile: Five Flights Up | |
|---|---|
| Artist Name | Five Flights Up |
| Genre | R&B, Soul |
| Years Active | 1969–early 1970s |
| Best Known For | “Do What You Wanna Do” (1970) |
| Top Charting Single | #37 on Billboard Hot 100 |
| Record Label | T.A. (distributed by Bell Records) |
Formation and Members
Five Flights Up formed in September 1969. The group consisted of:
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J.B. Bingham (James Bingham Jr.) – Lead singer and founder
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Geneva Crawford
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Blanton McFarlin
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Carlnetta Kelly
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Charles Ternell
Bingham, born on September 1, 1945, in Chicago, took charge of forming and leading the band. His connection to the music industry helped the group gain traction quickly.
A Lucky Break
Bingham got a big break thanks to Harry Elston of The Friends of Distinction. Elston introduced Bingham to producer John Florez, who had just produced the hit “Grazing in the Grass.” Florez had left RCA and was working independently when he agreed to produce Five Flights Up. He signed the band to the T.A. label, distributed by Bell Records.
“Do What You Wanna Do” – Their Signature Hit
Their debut single, “Do What You Wanna Do,” hit the airwaves in 1970. Bingham wrote the track himself, and Florez produced it. Veteran arranger Ernie Freeman handled the music arrangement.
The song debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1970 and climbed to #37, making it into the Top 40. It also reached #35 on the Adult Contemporary chart. With its upbeat vibe and smooth vocals, the song became their standout hit.
Follow-Up Singles
After their success, the group released more music—but none matched the impact of their debut.
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“After the Feeling Is Gone” (1970)
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Written by George Soule and Terry Woodford
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Charted at #89 on the Hot 100
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B-side: “Where Are You Going Girl”
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“Like Monday Follows Sunday” / “California Girl”
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Released later in 1970
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Failed to chart
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“Day Before Yesterday”
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Released on the independent Oak label
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Did not chart
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Despite their talent, these singles didn’t catch fire on the charts.
Unreleased Album
The band planned a full-length LP titled After the Feeling Is Gone. However, Columbia Records reportedly shelved the project. No official reason was given, though industry challenges or shifting priorities may have played a role.
J.B. Bingham’s Solo Career
By 1974, Bingham went solo. One of his notable solo tracks was “All Alone by the Telephone,” which gained a cult following among R&B fans. He also contributed to Motown and Curtom Records projects behind the scenes. Bingham had a reputation as a strong vocalist and skilled songwriter.
Legacy and “One-Hit Wonder” Label
Despite releasing several singles, Five Flights Up is remembered mainly for one song. That’s not uncommon in music history. “Do What You Wanna Do” captured the soul-pop sound of its time—short, catchy, and memorable.
Though often called a one-hit wonder, the group’s influence lived on through collectors, fans of rare grooves, and soul music compilations.
Complete Song List (May Be Partial)
Here are the known songs released by Five Flights Up:
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Do What You Wanna Do
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After the Feeling Is Gone
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Where Are You Going, Girl
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Like Monday Follows Sunday
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California Girl
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Day Before Yesterday
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Black Cat
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There’s Nothing Wrong (With Loving a Stranger)
Some of these songs are rare and have become collectors’ favorites.
Where Are They Now?
Very little is known about the later lives of the members. J.B. Bingham’s solo work has resurfaced on soul and funk reissues over the years. Some of their tracks have appeared on Northern Soul compilations and continue to enjoy spins in niche DJ sets.
Final Thoughts
Five Flights Up may not have had a long career, but they made their mark. Their debut single, “Do What You Wanna Do,” stands as a reminder of the vibrant R&B scene of the early 1970s. While many groups fade away without a trace, they left behind music that still resonates with soul fans decades later.
Their journey—short but sweet—shows how one good song can leave a lasting legacy.