The Manhattans was a popular R&B vocal group, originally from Jersey City, New Jersey, best known for their hit songs "Kiss and Say Goodbye" and "Shining Star" in 1976 and 1980, respectively. Early history The Manhattans formed in 1962 with members George "Smitty" Smith, Edward "Sonny" Bivins (born 15 January 1942, in Macon, Georgia), Winfred "Blue" Lovett (born 16 November 1943), Kenny "Wally" Kelley (born Kenneth Kelley, 9 January 1943 in New Jersey), and Richard "Ricky" Taylor. Bivins, Lovett, and Kelley were graduating from Lincoln High School, whilst Taylor and Smith were graduating from Snyder High School. All five enlisted in the armed forces, and came together as a group following their discharges from their respective branches. The group's first single was "For The First Time", released in 1964 by Carnival Records. Many consider August 15 1964, the date of recording, to be the official start of the group. The group

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z # TAGS