Since the days of “Motown” its been said, “there must be something in the water” when it comes to any singers from Detroit MI, “The Motor City.” Well, when it comes to the sweet, melodic voices of “Sounds Of Imani”, nothing could be more truthful for the inspirational gospel duo, Dr’s. Gerald & Carol Ervin. When you sit back and watch them sing and minister, one can’t help but to reminisce of the award winning siblings, BeBe & CeCe Winans. However, in the case of this duo the couple are actually married who display their love in every concert they do, and ending their last song with a center stage kiss.

As founder of the group, Carol’s passion for singing was evident as a young child growing up. All throughout her school years, Carol sang with various glee clubs and performed on many programs as an actress. These experiences would prove to be very valuable for her later in life as an adult.

In 1996, Carol was inspired by a vision from God, to form a gospel group. Stepping out on faith, she gathered together some local singers and musicians from around the city. Initially, she named the group “Imani of Detroit”, but later changed it as time went on. With a clear vision, purpose and a plan, she recruited four other members to join her; Annetta, Freddie, Steven and Julia. While Steven was the guitarist for the group, Carol enjoyed playing the keyboards and singing with the other three members. Unfortunately, by the end of the year, Steven decided to quit the group and pursue other personal goals. A short time later, two more members left for the same reason. Carol eventually found replacements for everyone by adding singers, Evelyn, Rod and Gerald to the group. Carol also acquired a drummer, Mike and keyboardist, Darren Simpson along the way.

Gerald came to the group by way of a friend inviting him out to audition for Carol. Without hesitation Gerald quickly jumped at the opportunity and brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience. With his many years being involved in the secular music world, Gerald instantly came in and filled the spot, even assisting the group as a “Public Relations” representative. His former work as a road manager and background singer for the famous “Detroit Emeralds”, made him a valuable asset. In addition, Gerald also worked with “The Flaming Emeralds” as a percussionist, lead singer and BG vocalist; the legendary “Floaters” as a BG vocalist; and a percussions/vocalist with the original “Chapter 8” music group. Chapter 8 is best known for jump starting the careers of the legendary, iconic soul singer, “Anita Baker”, and super producer, Michael Powell. Gerald was blessed to have toured all across the country and Europe with these artists.

When Gerald and Carol first met, neither had any idea of the plan God was working on behind the scenes. As time progressed, the two of them became very good friends with a common thread between them…music. It wasn’t long before their friendship blossomed into something special, and in 1999 the two were married.

Over the next few years the group continued to sing at various churches and events. Even though things were going great in Gerald and Carol’s personal life, the group started experiencing personnel conflicts. As life would have it, the once eight member group was suddenly cut in half to, Gerald, Carol and two musicians. They began seeking God on what to do next by going into prayer and fasting.

After realizing how well they harmonized together and still standing on the vision God gave her, Carol and Gerald decided to continue singing as a duo. Now with a new look for the group, also came a new name as well, and “Sounds Of Imani” was birth. The meaning of Imani is “faith”, and it’s that same faith which has carried the group this far. Since that time, S.O.I. has continued to sing at various churches, special events, festivals and even weddings for their wonderful performance of love songs.

In 2002, the group released its first full CD entitled, “Revelation.” The project gained the group some major exposure, especially overseas, releasing two singles on vinyl records in Europe. The independent contemporary project, layered their smooth voices on top of some funky R&B tracks, mixed with lovely ballads and a touch of jazz. The duo collaborated with producer Daron Steward on music and lyrics, while also serving as Executive Producers on their indie label Heaven-Wings Records.