Charles McCormick (musician) facts for kids

Charles Edward McCormick (May 8, 1946 – April 12, 2022) was an American musician. He was best known as a founding member of the R&B/Soul and funk band Bloodstone. In the band, he played bass guitar and was a lead singer.

About Charles McCormick

Early Life and Music

Charles McCormick was born and grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, United States. His brother, Larry McCormick, was also well-known in Los Angeles as a newsman and DJ. Charles studied music at Central High School in Kansas City.

While still in high school, Charles helped his friend Harry Williams start a singing group. They formed "The Sinceres" in 1962. This group later became the famous band Bloodstone. Charles also served in the army for two and a half years.

His Music Career

After forming The Sinceres, Charles and his group toured with another band. They were called the Soulful Emeralds in the late 1960s. Over time, the group learned to play musical instruments. They became a full band.

They created a unique sound. It mixed smooth singing with cool instrument playing. They added parts of funk and rock music. By 1971, the band moved to England. They changed their name to Bloodstone.

The band members were Charles McCormick on bass and vocals. Harry Williams and Roger Durham played percussion and sang. Charles Love and Willis Draffen played guitars and sang. Melvin Webb played drums. Eddie Summers later replaced Webb in 1971.

Between 1973 and 1984, Bloodstone had 13 songs on the music charts. Their biggest hit was "Natural High." Charles McCormick wrote this song. It reached the Top Ten on both R&B and pop charts in 1973. This song became their most famous.

The group had some member changes over the years. Charles McCormick left Bloodstone in 1982. Ron Wilson replaced him. Between 1981 and 1984, Charles released two songs as a solo artist. He rejoined Bloodstone in 1984.

The band continued to play live shows. Sadly, most of the original members passed away over the years. Roger Durham died in 1973. Melvin Webb died in 1982. Willis Draffen died in 2002. Charles Love died in 2014. Charles McCormick passed away in 2022. Harry Williams is the only original member still alive.

His Passing

Charles McCormick died on April 12, 2022. He was 75 years old. He passed away in Los Angeles, California, United States. He is remembered by his family, including his siblings, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Music and Movies

Discography

Bloodstone

The albums listed below feature Charles McCormick's work with Bloodstone.

• Bloodstone (1972)
• Natural High (1973)
• Unreal (1973)
• I Need Time (1974)
• Riddle of the Sphinx (1974)
• Train Ride to Hollywood (1975)
• Do You Wanna Do a Thing (1976)
• Lullaby of Broadway (1976)
• Don't Stop! (1978)
• Bloodstone's Greatest Hits (1985)
• Now!... That's What I'm Talkin' About (2004)

Solo Work

Album

• Many Moods of Charlie Mack (2012)

Singles

• "Now You Cry / I Want You For Myself" (1981)
• "Live Wire" (1984)

Filmography

• Train Ride to Hollywood (1975)