Sonny Charles is a powerful voice in American soul and R&B music. Best known as the lead singer of the Checkmates, Ltd., Charles rose to fame with the 1969 hit “Black Pearl.” With a career that spans decades, he has seen success both in groups and as a solo artist. His soulful delivery, emotional depth, and stage presence helped define the late ’60s and early ’80s soul scenes.
Even as musical trends changed, Charles continued to connect with audiences, later touring with the Steve Miller Band.
| Full Name | Charles Hemphill |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Sonny Charles |
| Birth Date | September 4, 1940 |
| Birthplace | Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA |
| Genres | Soul, R&B, Pop |
| Main Associated Acts | Checkmates, Ltd., Steve Miller Band |
| Biggest Hits | “Black Pearl”, “Put It in a Magazine” |
| Labels | A&M Records, HighRise Records |
Early Life
Sonny Charles was born Charles Hemphill on September 4, 1940, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He discovered music early and soon joined the vocal group Checkmates, Ltd. His smooth and expressive voice quickly stood out, helping the group gain attention in the R&B and soul scene.
The Rise with Checkmates, Ltd.
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In the late 1960s, Charles and Checkmates, Ltd. teamed up with producer Phil Spector. The collaboration led to the group’s breakout hit, “Black Pearl”, released in 1969. The song reached #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and made waves on the R&B charts as well. It remains their signature track.
Later that year, they found success in the UK with their version of “Proud Mary,” which peaked at #13 there. However, despite their early chart success, the band disbanded shortly afterward.
Going Solo
Following the breakup of the group, Sonny Charles launched a solo career. He signed with A&M Records, releasing a few singles including “Half as Much.” Although it didn’t chart well, it marked a transition into a new phase of his career.
In the early 1980s, Charles signed with HighRise Records and released the album “The Sun Still Shines” in 1982. It included the hit “Put It in a Magazine,” which became a Top 10 R&B hit and reached #40 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album itself peaked at #136 on the Billboard 200 and #14 on the R&B Albums chart.
However, follow-up singles such as “Always on My Mind” did not perform as well, peaking only at #53 on the R&B chart. As a result, both the label and Charles disappeared from the spotlight for a time.
Later Career and the Steve Miller Band
In the 1990s, Charles returned to live performance. He frequently performed in Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe, often teaming up with former Checkmates member Marvin “Sweet Louie” Smith.
In 2008, Charles made a notable return by joining the Steve Miller Band as a touring vocalist. His work with the band introduced him to new audiences while keeping his classic soul style alive.
Selected Discography
With Checkmates, Ltd.:
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“Black Pearl” (1969) – US #13
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“Proud Mary” (1969) – UK #13
Solo:
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“Half as Much” (A&M Records)
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“Put It in a Magazine” (1982) – US Hot 100 #40, R&B #2
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“Always on My Mind” (1983) – R&B #53
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Album: The Sun Still Shines – Billboard 200 #136, R&B Albums #14
Legacy
Sonny Charles may not have the name recognition of some of his peers, but his impact on soul and R&B remains strong. “Black Pearl” continues to be praised for its emotional delivery and socially conscious lyrics. “Put It in a Magazine” proved that he could still command attention decades after his first hits.
He brought passion and consistency to every performance, whether with Checkmates, Ltd., as a solo artist, or touring with major acts like the Steve Miller Band. His long career stands as a testament to his vocal talent and staying power in an ever-changing industry.