The Isley Brothers are an American family musical group originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, that began as a vocal trio consisting of brothers O’Kelly “Kelly” Isley Jr., Rudolph Isley, and Ronald Isley in the late 1950s.
Who was the first lead singer of the Isley Brothers?
In the group’s early days, the eldest brother, Vernon, sang lead. He was killed at age 13 when the bicycle he was riding was struck by a car, and Ronald became the lead singer. The Isleys were still quite young when Rudolph, O’Kelly, and Ronald moved to New York to pursue a record deal.
He died in his sleep, his brother Ernie said, adding that he was unaware of any health issues his brother might have had.
Mr. Isley spent much of his three decades with the Isley Brothers harmonizing with his brother O’Kelly in support of Ronald Isley’s lead vocals. But he also sang lead on some notable tracks. On “I’ve Got to Get Myself Together,” recorded in 1969, his gentlemanly tone gave the song a touch of grace.