The Detroit Emeralds brought smooth vocals and catchy grooves to the R&B scene of the 1970s. Though they never became household names like some of their peers, their music left a lasting impression—especially in the UK. Their signature track “Feel the Need in Me” continues to resonate with fans of classic soul and Northern soul alike.
Despite lineup changes and internal splits, the group managed to stay relevant for years, both in the charts and on the oldies circuit.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Group Name | The Detroit Emeralds |
| Origin | Little Rock, Arkansas / Detroit, Michigan |
| Genres | R&B, Soul, Funk |
| Active Years | 1960s – 1980s |
| Key Members | Abrim (“Abe”) Tilmon, Ivory Tilmon, James Mitchell |
| Most Famous Song | “Feel the Need in Me” (1972, 1977) |
| Record Labels | Westbound, Janus |
| Notable Hits | “Do Me Right”, “You Want It, You Got It”, “Baby Let Me Take You (In My Arms)” |
| Legacy | Staples in Northern Soul, Oldies Circuits |
| Notable Collaborations | The Floaters (via James Mitchell) |
Formation and Early Years
The Detroit Emeralds began their musical journey in Little Rock, Arkansas. The original lineup consisted of brothers Abrim (“Abe”), Ivory, Cleophus, and Raymond Tilmon. They later relocated to Detroit, a city then buzzing with soul music energy.
Their debut single “Show Time” came out in 1968. It reached #22 on the R&B charts and #89 on the pop charts. This initial success was modest but promising. More singles followed, including:
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“I Can’t See Myself Doing Without You” / “Just Now and Then”
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“If I Lose Your Love”
While these songs didn’t break into the mainstream, they helped the group gain recognition within the soul music community.
New Lineup and First Major Hit
By the early 1970s, the group went through a reshuffle. Only Abrim and Ivory Tilmon remained from the original members. They were joined by James Mitchell, a new addition who would become crucial to their next phase.
This revamped trio signed with Westbound Records, home to other notable acts like Funkadelic and Ohio Players. Their first big break came in 1971 with “Do Me Right.” The song hit #7 on the R&B chart and became their first top-10 success. It also reached #43 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Chart Success and Notable Singles
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Following their breakthrough, the Detroit Emeralds released a string of hits:
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“Wear This Ring (With Love)”
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#91 pop, #18 R&B (1971)
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“You Want It, You Got It”
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#36 pop, #5 R&B, #12 UK (1972)
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“Baby Let Me Take You (In My Arms)”
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#24 pop, #4 R&B (1972)
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“Feel the Need in Me”
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#110 pop, #22 R&B, #4 UK (1972)
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“You’re Gettin’ a Little Too Smart”
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#101 pop, #10 R&B (1973)
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Each of these songs showcased smooth vocal harmonies, funky arrangements, and polished production—hallmarks of early 1970s soul.
“Feel the Need in Me”: Their Signature Song
“Feel the Need in Me,” written by Abe Tilmon, is the group’s most enduring hit. Though it wasn’t a big success in the U.S. charts at first, the song became a massive hit in the UK, reaching #4.
In 1977, they released an extended disco version. This version also charted:
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#90 pop (U.S.)
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#14 dance
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#73 R&B
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#12 UK (again)
The song’s infectious rhythm and romantic message made it a favorite among Northern Soul fans in Britain. Even today, “Feel the Need in Me” is often played in retro clubs and featured on soul compilation albums.
Internal Splits and New Groups
By the mid-1970s, tensions within the group caused it to fracture. Around 1977, the band split into two separate acts.
✦ Group 1: The Detroit Emeralds (Abe Tilmon-led)
Abe Tilmon continued using the original group name. He brought in new members and kept performing under the Detroit Emeralds brand. They focused on live performances and continued to enjoy success on the nostalgia circuit.
✦ Group 2: The Emeralds (James Mitchell-led)
James Mitchell formed The Emeralds alongside Ivory Tilmon and Marvin Willis. They recruited additional musicians, including a young Michael Henderson, who would later become a well-known funk bassist and singer.
Notably, James Mitchell also became involved in producing and writing for another Detroit-based group—The Floaters, best known for their 1977 hit “Float On.” James’ brother, Paul Mitchell, was part of The Floaters.
Life After the Hits
Despite the split, both versions of the Emeralds performed actively throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. They were fixtures on the oldies circuit and kept the spirit of 1970s soul alive. While they didn’t achieve new chart success, their earlier hits remained popular through radio play and compilations.
Sadly, Abrim Tilmon passed away in 1982 at the age of just 37 due to a heart attack. His early death marked the end of a significant era for the group.
James Mitchell continued working behind the scenes in the music industry. His involvement with songwriting and production extended his influence well beyond the Emeralds.
Legacy and Influence
While the Detroit Emeralds never became icons like The Temptations or The O’Jays, they hold a respected place in soul music history. Their work remains a favorite among collectors of 1970s soul, particularly those who follow the Northern Soul movement in the UK.
“Feel the Need in Me” has been covered and sampled by numerous artists. Its blend of danceable rhythm and heartfelt lyrics makes it timeless. Songs like “Baby Let Me Take You (In My Arms)” continue to pop up in movies, commercials, and playlists celebrating retro soul.
Conclusion
The Detroit Emeralds had a career filled with hits, challenges, and reinventions. They brought emotion and sophistication to R&B with their polished vocals and catchy arrangements. Though they faced internal divisions and a rapidly changing musical landscape, their music continues to inspire soul fans around the world.
Their story is a reminder that even brief flashes of chart success can leave a long-lasting legacy—especially when the music is as memorable as “Feel the Need in Me.”