In the vibrant soul and R&B scene of the 1960s, one Milwaukee-based group stood out with their irresistible harmonies and energetic performances. The Esquires, best known for their hit “Get on Up,” made a name for themselves with a sound that blended doo-wop roots, upbeat soul, and pop sensibilities. Their music reflected the transition of Black vocal groups from classic doo-wop into a more danceable, modern style that shaped the decade.
Though their chart success was relatively brief, The Esquires left a lasting impression on fans of vintage R&B. From high school beginnings to national stages like the Apollo Theater, their journey is filled with perseverance, evolution, and timeless grooves.
| Group Name | The Esquires |
|---|---|
| Origin | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA |
| Years Active | 1957–1976 |
| Genres | R&B, Doo-Wop, Soul |
| Notable Members | Gilbert Moorer, Alvis Moorer, Betty Moorer, Sam Pace |
| Biggest Hit | “Get on Up” (1967) – #11 Pop, #3 R&B |
| Record Labels | Bunky, Scepter, Wand, Capitol, Lamarr, Ju-Par |
| Other Charting Songs | “And Get Away,” “You’ve Got the Power,” “Girls in the City” |
| Legacy | Known for bridging doo-wop and soul, and for creating one of the most enduring R&B hits of the 1960s |
Early Days in Milwaukee
The group started in 1957 as a family act called Betty Moorer and The Esquires, named after the lead vocalist Betty Moorer, who sang alongside her brothers Gilbert and Alvis Moorer. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the siblings formed the group while still in high school.
As they gained experience performing in local venues, the group went through early personnel changes. When Betty left the group, the band shortened their name to The Esquires. They added Sam Pace, a skilled tenor, to round out the group’s vocal range.
Throughout the 1960s, The Esquires worked tirelessly to build a reputation, performing wherever they could while experimenting with vocal arrangements and harmonies. Their big break, however, came after they moved to Chicago, a city that played a key role in the development of soul music.
Auditions and Their First Break
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In 1966, the group auditioned for Curtis Mayfield, the legendary singer, producer, and member of The Impressions. Although Mayfield passed on signing them, the Esquires didn’t give up.
They then approached Constellation Records, a Chicago-based label known for R&B talent. Unfortunately, Constellation was on the brink of shutting down. Instead, the group landed at Bunky Records, a newly formed label started by Bunky Sheppard, with national distribution through Scepter Records.
That partnership led to their first major success.
Smash Hit: “Get on Up”
In 1967, The Esquires released their debut single, “Get on Up.” The song was a bright, horn-driven track that immediately caught on with radio stations and record buyers alike. With its infectious rhythm and high-pitched vocals, “Get on Up” became an R&B anthem of the era.
The single achieved:
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#11 on the Billboard Hot 100
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#3 on the Billboard R&B chart
The song’s success opened doors. The Esquires began performing at major venues including:
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The Regal Theater in Chicago
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The Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York City
They were now on the national radar.
Follow-Up Singles and Continued Success
After the breakthrough of “Get on Up,” The Esquires released a series of singles that maintained their momentum:
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“And Get Away” (1967) –
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#22 Pop
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#9 R&B
A lively follow-up that kept the group on the charts and in the public eye.
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“You’ve Got the Power” (1968) –
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#91 Pop
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#29 R&B
A soulful track that reflected a more mature sound.
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These hits showcased the group’s ability to mix danceable tracks with smooth harmonies. The band’s growing fan base appreciated their positive, energetic vibe.
Changes in Labels and Later Years
After their initial success, The Esquires signed directly with Scepter Records, which released new material through its subsidiary Wand Records.
However, in 1969, the group returned to Bunky Records for a short time before making another move—this time to Capitol Records, a major label known for a broader artist roster. There, they released the single “Reach Out,” but it failed to make a big impact.
Later, The Esquires signed with the independent Lamarr Records, where they scored one last notable hit:
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“Girls in the City” (1971) –
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#18 R&B
This track proved the group still had the ability to connect with audiences, even as the soul scene was evolving.
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Their final major release came on Ju-Par Records in 1976 with a re-recording of “Get on Up”, titled “Get on Up ’76.” This updated version didn’t chart significantly, but it served as a nostalgic nod to their peak years.
Members and Legacy
Gilbert Moorer
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Born: August 20, 1941
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Passed: August 28, 2008
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Cause: Throat cancer
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Role: Co-founder and original member
Sam Pace
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Born: September 22, 1944
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Passed: January 7, 2013
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Cause: Illness (undisclosed)
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Role: Tenor vocalist added after Betty’s departure
Alvis Moorer
Remains a less public figure, but he was an original co-founder and instrumental to the group’s vocal chemistry.
The Esquires never had a reunion tour or a long-lasting legacy like some of their peers, but their music lives on. “Get on Up” continues to appear on oldies compilations and soul playlists, and it’s frequently played on retro radio stations.
Their blend of doo-wop roots and uptempo soul helped bridge two important eras in Black popular music.
Selected Discography
Hit Singles:
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“Get on Up” (1967) – Bunky Records
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“And Get Away” (1967) – Bunky Records
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“You’ve Got the Power” (1968) – Scepter/Wand
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“Reach Out” (1969) – Capitol Records
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“Girls in the City” (1971) – Lamarr Records
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“Get on Up ’76” (1976) – Ju-Par Records
Notable Album:
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Get on Up and Get Away (1967) – Their debut LP, which included their biggest hits.
Final Thoughts
The Esquires may not have had dozens of hits, but their contributions to 1960s R&B are undeniable. Their success with “Get on Up” marked a shift toward upbeat, danceable soul music and gave them a place in music history. With smooth harmonies, infectious rhythms, and enduring energy, The Esquires are a shining example of how one great song can leave a lasting legacy.