The Lost Generation was an R&B/soul vocal group that emerged from the vibrant Chicago music scene in the late 1960s. Although their time in the spotlight was brief, their smooth harmonies and streetwise style left an undeniable mark on the era.
Formed by experienced vocalists who had already tasted local success, the group rose to national fame with their hit “The Sly, Slick and Wicked.” Though they disbanded just a few years later, the members continued to influence soul music through their later work with other groups and solo projects.
The Lost Generation’s Early Formation
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The Lost Generation came together in 1969, bringing together talents from different corners of Chicago’s music world. The lineup included:
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Lowrell Simon (born March 18, 1943)
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Fred Simon
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Jesse Dean
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Larry Brownlee
Several members had prior experience singing with other groups. Larry Brownlee was formerly part of The C.O.D.’s, who scored a Top 10 R&B hit in 1965 with “Michael (The Lover).” Meanwhile, Lowrell Simon had sung with a short-lived group called The Vondells, known for their local Chicago hit “Lenore.”
When Jesse Dean completed his service in the United States Army in 1969, the group officially formed. Thanks to Lowrell Simon’s childhood friend, Gus Redmond—then head of promotions at Brunswick Records—the group was introduced to renowned producer Carl Davis, setting the stage for their breakthrough.
The Sly, Slick and Wicked – a Chart Triumph
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Working with Carl Davis, The Lost Generation recorded their debut single “The Sly, Slick and Wicked.” The song, co-written by Lowrell Simon, Larry Brownlee, and Gus Redmond, perfectly captured the smooth yet streetwise flavor of early 1970s soul.
Released in 1970, the single became a major success:
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#30 on the Billboard Hot 100
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#14 on the R&B Singles Chart
The track’s catchy, mid-tempo groove and relatable lyrics about youthful bravado made it a favorite on radio stations across the country. The single’s B-side, “You’re So Young But You’re So True,” also highlighted the group’s strong songwriting skills, with both Simon and Brownlee contributing.
“The Sly, Slick and Wicked” was not just a hit — it was a financial windfall for Brunswick Records. The single sold so well that it helped Brunswick buy itself out of its parent company, Decca Records.
The Group’s Other Singles, and Eventual Disbandment
Building on their momentum, The Lost Generation released several more singles that found success on the R&B charts:
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“Wait a Minute” (1970) — #25 R&B Chart
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“Talking the Teenage Language”
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“Someday”
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“Your Mission (If You Decide to Accept It)”
“Wait a Minute,” penned by Eugene Record of the Chi-Lites, continued the group’s winning formula of heartfelt lyrics wrapped in smooth, soulful melodies.
Despite these efforts, none of the later singles matched the crossover success of their first hit. After a few years of moderate success, The Lost Generation disbanded in 1974, soon after the release of “Your Mission.”
Life and Careers After the Lost Generation
After the group’s breakup, the members pursued new paths within the soul music scene.
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Larry Brownlee and Fred Simon joined a new act called Mystique, alongside former Impressions member Ralph Johnson. Mystique carried on the smooth Chicago soul tradition with their own set of recordings.
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Lowrell Simon launched a successful solo career. Dropping his last name professionally, he signed with AVI Records, a label owned by famed entertainer Liberace.
In 1979, he released the album Lowrell, which included the single:-
“Mellow Mellow Right On”, a Top 40 US R&B hit and a Top 40 UK hit.
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Lowrell’s success helped bridge the gap between classic Chicago soul and the emerging smooth soul and early disco sounds of the late 1970s.
Tragically, Larry Brownlee passed away in 1978 in Chicago. Meanwhile, Fred Simon continued his musical career and eventually became a member of the legendary group The Chi-Lites.
Legacy of The Lost Generation
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Although their name might not be as immediately recognizable as other soul groups of their time, The Lost Generation made a significant impact. Their blend of smooth vocals, streetwise lyrics, and polished production captured the spirit of early 1970s R&B.
“The Sly, Slick and Wicked” remains a classic, often cited in lists of great early soul records. The group’s short-lived but memorable career laid a foundation that its members built upon long after the group itself faded from the charts.
Today, fans of vintage R&B and Chicago soul continue to rediscover and appreciate the work of The Lost Generation—a fitting legacy for a group that, despite its name, was never truly lost to music history.