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The Ethics were formed in 1967 in Philadelphia by Ron Tyson, alongside Joe Freeman, Carl "Hugie" Enlow, and Andrew "Bike" Collins. The group was known for combining Motown-styled songs with sweeping string and horn arrangements, contributing to the early development of the Philly sound. The original lineup included Ron Presson Tyson, Howard "Tony" Smith, Clarence "Butter" Smith, and Alfred Milton Tennant. However, Tennant's career was interrupted when he was drafted in 1968, prompting Tyson to assemble a new lineup with Freeman, Collins, and Enlow. With Tyson's notable songwriting talent and a tenor voice reminiscent of Eddie Kendricks, the group recorded for independent labels such as Wale, Vent, and Golden Fleece, producing tracks like "Standing in the Darkness" and "I Want My Baby Back," which they felt deserved more recognition. Collaborating with Vince Montana's rhythms and Thom Bell's sophisticated arrangements, the Ethics were somewhat ahead of their time. By the dawn of the 1970s, the group had disbanded, witnessing the success of newer soul groups like the O'Jays who followed a similar musical template. Later, Tyson joined the reformed Temptations led by Otis Williams.

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