Soul group led by vocalist John McNulty aka Johnny Soul (ex-Del-Rays), with Anitra Doss (female lead vocal), Andy Diffta (guitar), Angy Zanty (bass), Walt Morawski (organ), Harry Lins (drums), Dick Porter (trombone), and Glenn Jewell (sax). The group performed their soul sounds at places such as Coffee Grounds, Inc. Also appeared at Sarano’s on Route 144 in Ellicott City. They released two singles. Songs written by Walt Morawski and Robert Huber.
Manchesters photos courtesy of John McNulty
According to John “The Johnny Soul that had releases on SSS was a different Johnny Soul. He’s still recording, I think. I recorded for SSS but the record was never released. I think Ken Keene had the masters but he passed away in 2003. My only ‘claim to fame’ was “Always Hurt Her So” on Baltimore’s Dome label. “Always Hurt Her So” went #1 in Eureka, CA. on KDAN. It sold about 16,000 copies, all in Northern California. “Wait” which I think was a better production didn’t sell one record. I guess my mother would have bought one but I gave her a DJ copy.” LOL!
John also worked with local bands Cabbage, and River before moving to Texas… Walt went on to join the Sentries…
“I have worked throughout the South SC, NC, GA, AL, MS and LA, and nearly starved to death. I can’t even look at McDonalds without having a flash back. In the ‘80s I did some work with Frankie Ford (“Sea Cruise”). He and (his manager) Ken Keene really helped me out when I needed it most. I was doing country then and was having a ball but not making any money. I made just enough to live on.”
Record releases by Johnny Soul & The Manchesters:
196* Dome 4003 Always Hurt Her So (Pt. 1) / (Pt. 2)
196* Dome 4012 Wait / Let’s Kiss Again
Also see Montgomery, Jenny, & the Manchesters.
