Lakeside: A Musical Odyssey from Fantastic Voyages to Lasting Legacy

Rising from the vibrant streets of Dayton, Ohio, Lakeside emerged as a trailblazing R&B and soul group that left an enduring mark on the music landscape. Their iconic hit "Fantastic Voyage" catapulted them to stardom, but their journey was not without its challenges and controversies.

Early Days and Formation

Lakeside's roots can be traced back to the mid-1960s when brothers Mark and Stephen Shockley formed a vocal group called The Sharpees. In 1971, they joined forces with bassist Fred Calhoun, drummer Otis Stokes, and keyboardist Norman Beavers to create Lakeside. The name was inspired by a nearby lake in Dayton, symbolizing their local connection.

Breakthrough and Hit Songs

Lakeside's breakthrough came in 1977 with the release of their album "Fantastic Voyage." The title track, penned by Dennis Lambert and Brian Potter, became a smash hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard R&B charts and cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with.

Musical Style and Influences

Lakeside's music was a blend of R&B, soul, and funk, often infused with elements of jazz and gospel. Their lyrics were known for their optimistic and uplifting tone, inspiring listeners with themes of love, unity, and empowerment. Influences included The Temptations, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, and Earth, Wind & Fire.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite their success, Lakeside faced challenges along the way. In the 1980s, they were embroiled in a legal battle over royalties and publishing rights, which temporarily halted their recording career. They also encountered criticism for their perceived commercialism and departure from their original R&B sound.

Discography and Legacy

Lakeside released a string of hit albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including "Shot of Love" (1978), "Rough Riders" (1980), and "Outrageous" (1981). Their discography spans over a dozen albums and numerous singles, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

Members

The core members of Lakeside remained relatively consistent throughout their career:

* Mark Shockley (vocals)
* Stephen Shockley (vocals)
* Fred Calhoun (bass)
* Otis Stokes (drums)
* Norman Beavers (keyboards)

Later Years and Recognition

In the 1990s and beyond, Lakeside continued to perform and release music, albeit with less commercial success. They were inducted into the Ohio Music Hall of Fame in 2007, a testament to their lasting contribution to the genre.

Conclusion

Lakeside's musical journey has been marked by both triumph and adversity, but their legacy as one of the most influential R&B and soul groups remains secure. Their iconic hit "Fantastic Voyage" continues to resonate with generations of listeners, while their catalog of uplifting and soulful music stands as a testament to their enduring talent and spirit.