Rex Garvin, born on July 24, 1940, in Harlem, New York City, was a multifaceted musician whose career spanned over four decades. Raised by foster parents in the Bronx, Garvin’s early exposure to music through piano lessons laid the foundation for his future endeavours in the music industry. His journey began in 1954 when he co-founded the female vocal group The Hearts, serving as their songwriter, arranger, pianist, and bass singer. Managed by his neighbour Zelma “Zell” Sanders, The Hearts quickly found success, with their debut single “Lonely Nights” reaching number eight on the US R&B charts in 1955.
Garvin’s talents extended beyond performing; he was also a prolific songwriter and arranger. In 1956, Sanders founded J & S Records and appointed Garvin as her assistant. He played a crucial role in the label’s success, writing songs like “Over The Mountain, Across The Sea,” which became a major hit for Johnnie and Joe, reaching number eight on the US Billboard 100 and number three on the US R&B charts in 1957.
In 1961, Garvin formed a new group, Rex Garvin and The Mighty Cravers, and released their debut single “Go Little Willie” on Epic Records. The group showcased their versatility by recording singles in various styles throughout the 1960s. Notable tracks include “Oh Yeah!” and “Soul Food,” which became popular on the UK’s Northern Soul scene. In 1968, they released their only album, “Raw Funky Earth,” and in 1971, their final single, “Strange Happenings,” marked the end of an era for the group.
Garvin’s songwriting prowess was further highlighted through his collaborations with Gregory Carroll and Doris Payne, also known as Doris Troy. Together, they co-wrote “Bossa Nova Blues,” featured on the B-side of Troy’s soul classic “Just One Look,” which reached number three on the US R&B chart and number ten on the US Billboard 100. The trio also penned “What’cha Gonna Do About It,” a follow-up single that showcased Troy’s emotive vocals and reached number twenty-one on the US R&B chart in 1963.
Despite his success, Garvin decided to leave the music business in 1975 and moved to Atlanta. Although he occasionally performed live until 1985, he eventually retired from music entirely. Garvin passed away on December 2, 2013, at the age of seventy-three, leaving behind a legacy as an arranger, bandleader, R&B singer, and a talented songwriter with over 150 songs to his name. His work has been covered by artists such as The Hollies, Ben E. King, Bobby Vinson, and The Specials, cementing his influence in the music world.
Rex Garvin’s contributions to the music industry, particularly through his songwriting and performances, continue to resonate with audiences today. His ability to blend different musical styles and his collaborations with other artists have left an enduring impact, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
