Russell Thompkins, Jr., grew up on the north side of Philadelphia. He joined other high school singers from two different vocal groups and combined to form The Stylistics. Russell was the lead singer until he left the group in 1999.


Russell sang lead on each song of the first 3 albums, though surprisingly, the other Stylistics did not sing on any of them. Russell tells Tom the story of his musical career and contribution to American rock 'n' roll from that distinctively smooth Philly soul perspective.

Enjoy the dreamy Neo-Soul of group ZULUZULUU who make it bounce and capture the pleasant vibe of a Stylistic's classic in 2016 with their cool cover of "People Make The World Go 'Round".