The Climates

The Climates, a legendary vocal ensemble, signed with Sun Records, in 1966 and had several hits in the 60’s such as “Breakin’ Up Again,” “No You For Me,” “All My Weakness,” “Tell Him Tonight,” and “Don’t Be Cruel.” The latter was also recorded by the legendary Elvis Presley and made it to the top of the charts. The Climates were the first black artists to become number one on a white radio station in the South (WHBQ-3 months and WMPS-1 month). In 1967, The Climates charted number two in France, Italy, and England, second only to the Beatles, making the front page of Billboard Magazine that year.

On June 20, 1992, Sam Phillips, President of Sun Records, declared the group legendary artists. They each received Proclamations from the state and the city of Memphis, and that day was declared “Climates Day.” Sam once said, “These guys of the Memphis Sound, James Rosser, Raymond Edwards, David Glenn, and Robert Chisem, were truly trendsetters with their flashy outfits and their well-polished performances that were so disciplined.”
The group has had the pleasure of being backed by Memphis greats such as Isaac Hayes, Booker T. and the MG’s, The Markeys, Tennie Hodges and the Hi Rhythm Band, and some of the former Barkays. Being successful at an early age, The Climates were helpful to others by letting them be their opening act. Some of the artists that opened for them are J. Blackfoot of the Soul Children, The New Comers, and Ann Peebles.

Even now, The Climates are featured on the new legendary album called, “Into the 60’s, and the Complete Sun Singles, “From the Vault Vol. 5 CD.” This album and CD features various artists with songs from their collection.

Recently, Rodger Friedman of Fox News New York reviewed new Climates CD as being one of the top 5 CD’s for the year. The Climates are stronger than ever. The group is under the leadership of Robert “Chilli” Chisem, the only original member in the ensemble. The new members of The Climates are Joe Spears (Bass), James King (1st and 2nd Tenor). Derek Smith (1st and 2nd Tenor), and Warren Miller (2nd Tenor). This group is very versatile. Each member is a lead vocalist. In 206, their song “Rainin’ In Memphis” was featured on WDIA’s CD (America’s First Black Radio Station), “The History, The Music, The Legend.” Ace Records in England also recently released a new compilation CD entitled, “More Perfect Harmony”, featuring one of the Climates’ songs, “No You For Me” from the Sun-Days. The Climates have recently finished a new CD entitled, “Rainin’ In Memphis”, which will released in January 2008 It is produced by Memphis’ own, Carl “Blue” Wise. It has the sound of yesterday, but today’s real music. With all their history and background, you know it is going to be a hit! If you are looking for a legendary sound that started it all, this group is the one—The C-L-I-M-A-T-E-S!