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The Cincinatti, Ohio group The Isley Brothers hold the distinction of being the longest running charted band in history and is currently on its second generation of Isleys. It's easy to see why, with their tight harmonies, timeless tunes and easy blend of funk, soul and doo-wop are so appealing. Founded in 1954, a list of Isley Brothers singles read like an essay on key trends in African American music. The Brothers got their start singing in church choir and their parents were both musicians. Sensing an opportunity to do what they loved, they formed their four oldest sons into a touring gospel group. O'Kelly Isley Jr., Rudolph Isley and Ronald Isley moved to New York in 1957 and the Isley Brothers story began. Their early 60's hits were distinctly doo-wop flavored with hits like "Twist and Shout," "Nobody But Me" and "Shout!" The savvy brothers decided to found their own label in 1964 and named it T-Neck Records and gave the young Jimi Hendrix his big break on their single "Move On Over & Let Me Dance." However, T-Neck didn't bring the Brothers the success they craved so they shut it down and moved to Motown. The Detroit machine hooked them up with hit writers Holland-Dozier-Holland and their single "This Old Heart Of Mine (Is Made For Loving You)" made it to #12. But they didn't like Berry Gordy's style either, left Motown to join with cutting edge New York label Buddah Records. With Buddah, The Isley Brothers got noticeably funkier and changed their look from clean cut preppy boys to sharp dressed men and released their singles "Love the One You're With," "Pop That Thang" and "I Turned You On."

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