Men of Vizion

Biography

This urban quintet combines R&B basics of harmony and soul to produce a sound characteristic of '90s R&B bands. With Prathan "Spanky" Williams on vocals and George Spencer III, Brian Deramus, Desmond Greggs and Corley Randolph backing him up, Men of Vizion produced several R&B chart singles such as "House Keeper," "Do Thangz," and "Do You Feel Me? (... Freak You)." Some of their more well-known songs include "You Told Me You Love Me," "Forgive Me" and "That's Alright." Many of their songs take on a ballad-type rhythm and harmony.

Men of Vizion formed and is based in Brooklyn. The group began at La Guardia High School of Music and Art where the members attended school. Corley Randolph was training to be a classical pianist and sang frequently in his mother's church. Desmond Gregg not only sings but also writes and produces the group's singles and albums. With a determination to eventually land a major record deal, Men of Vizion practiced everyday and performed anywhere they could. During the early years, the band played at parties, entered talent shows and performed at local nightclubs. Their persistence paid off when they were signed to Jade Productions. With the support of New Jack vocalist Teddy Riley, the group was eventually signed with MJJ Music.

Their debut album, Personal, released in 1996, incorporated all the band's belief and emotions, from love to romance to sensitivity. Aside from the band's successful hits, Men of Vizion also worked with Tasha Scott, Sherri Blair and Teddy Riley. Men of Vizion brought to life the 1977 Jackson Five hit "Show You the Way to Go."

Throughout their short professional career, Men of Vizion has managed to attract a large urban following. The sensitivity and compassion in their songs helps attract a variety of different audiences. Touring and performing nationally, Men of Vizion is now being compared to such r&b legends as Boyz II Men and Babyface. Reality is a major reason this group succeeds -- their music is based on their own relationships and experiences. Deramus, Greggs and Randolph left the group after the first album's release. ~ Kim Summers, All Music Guide