| B i o g r a p h y |
Imagination
was a trio from the U.K. that put a synthesized and often clubby spin
on soul groups from the ‘70s. In fact, a couple of ‘70s
groups have direct ties to Imagination; Leee John and Ashley Ingram
spent time during that decade playing supportive roles in the Delfonics
and Chairmen of the Board, prior to Imagination's formation. Along with
drummer Errol Kennedy,
vocalist John and bassist Ingram formed the group in 1981. By the end
of that year, they already had their first album released and a minor
hit in the form of that album's title track, "Body Talk." The group's
second album, 1982's In the Heat of the Night, was their most
successful, spawning a trio of U.S. R&B chart hits in the form of
"Just an Illusion" (#27), "Magic and Lights" (#52), and "Changes"
(#46). Those singles were even more popular in their home country, with
the first pair reaching the top five. The remix collection Night
Dubbing appeared the following year, as did the group's third proper
album, Scandalous. The group's success fizzled until their mid
‘90s breakup (at the time, Leee John was the only remaining
original member), though 1984's "This Means War" was able to put a dent
in the U.S. R&B chart. John remained active in the entertainment
industry, hosting U.K. television programs and continuing his recording
career as a solo artist and collaborator. Since the group's split,
several compilations have been released; Music Club's The Very Best of
Imagination is the best place to start.