Spyder Turner has progressed from his DooWop group in the old neighborhood and singing for fun with The Temptations, to having hit records on the charts, to acting, writing and producing records with the famed Norman Whitfield. Having recently contributed work on a soon-to-be released CD by the Four Tops, Spyder’s schedule now allows him time for what he loves most: performing before live audiences. Be sure to check out footage in the Video Gallery from Spyder’s recent night on stage with the famous Johnny Trudell and his orchestra as part of a new and innovative program for school music programs entitled “Jammin’ With The Pros”. For more information on the program, click on “Jammin’ With The Pros”. Photos from the beginning of Spyder’s career to the present can be viewed in our Photo Gallery. You can also enjoy his music and classic hits in the Audio Archive, or find out more about Spyder and Soul Music in his Biography and Links page. Should you wish to become a member of Spyder’s official Fan Club and keep up on his concert schedule, please click here. Spyder Turner, born in West Virginia, grew up in Detroit and participated in glee club and boys’ ensembles in school, forming a doo-wop group at a young age called “The Nonchalants”. Growing up in the Motor City and having the singing talent he does, it didn’t take long for Spyder to cross paths with the likes of “The Temptations”, often singing with them for fun. Spyder first broke into the national spotlight in 1966 with a number one hit record, a remake of the Ben E. King song “Stand By Me”. His unique take on this song imagining how other singers would interpret this yearning ballad – earned him a place in music history. At the young age of 16, Spyder won a talent show at the famed Apollo Theater. At 19 years old, he returned as a professional to perform his hit. He is now considered an “Apollo Theater Living Legend”. Spyder later co-wrote with Norman Whitfield, who enjoyed spectacular success as a producer & writer at Motown Records.The 1977 Rose Royce song “Do Your Dance”, issued on Whitfield Records earned Spyder a gold and platinum record. He also performed the title song in the Berry Gordy movie “The Last Dragon”, and co-wrote and performed the song “Mean Machine” in the movie “Bad Guys”. Acting appearances include the movies “Secret Agent OO Soul” and “Street Wars”.
Having recently performed with the famed Johnny Trudell Orchestra, Spyder’s love for live performances has been rekindled, and he will soon be touring around the country. Plans are also in the works for a European tour. His live performances include renditions of artists like Smokey Robinson, Chuck Jackson, the late Billy Stewart and Otis Redding, Eddie Kendricks, and even James Brown. Delighted audiences routinely give standing ovations for his wonderful showmanship. Spyder is also busy writing and recording more hit songs, to be included on his soon-to-be-released CD.