BOB AND GENE - BMHOF CLASS OF 2011

In the late 1960s in Buffalo, two teenagers named Bobby Nunn and Eugene Coplin Jr. were crafting soulful harmonies that rivaled any Motown or Stax hit. These boys, known as Bob & Gene, became a beloved local act, leaving behind a bittersweet legacy that resonates even today.

Born in 1952 and 1953, respectively, Bobby and Eugene grew up surrounded by music. Bobby's father, William Nunn Sr., was a music enthusiast who even started his own record label, Mo Do Records. Meanwhile, Eugene honed his vocal skills in church choirs. Their paths crossed in school, and soon, their shared passion for singing blossomed into a musical partnership. By their teenage years, Bob & Gene were writing and performing original songs, their voices blending seamlessly in smooth soul harmonies. They soaked up inspiration from the likes of Sam & Dave, Otis Redding, and Marvin Gaye, infusing their music with a raw energy and heartfelt emotion that resonated with Buffalo audiences.

In 1967, their big break arrived. With William Nunn Sr.'s Mo Do Records providing the platform, Bob & Gene cut their first single, "You Gave Me Love." The song became a local hit, and several more singles followed, including "Come On and Love Me" and "I Can't Get Next to You." They performed regularly at local clubs and even appeared on regional television, captivating audiences with their dynamic stage presence and infectious enthusiasm.  

Despite their initial success, Bob & Gene's journey was short-lived. By the early 1970s, Mo Do Records faced financial difficulties and folded. While other opportunities beckoned, Bobby and Eugene decided to pursue different paths. Bobby moved to California, eventually finding success as a songwriter and producer, while Eugene returned to his local community, focusing on church and social work.

For decades, Bob & Gene's music remained largely forgotten, existing only in faded memories and rare vinyl copies. However, in 2001, their story took an unexpected turn. New York soul music historian David Griffiths stumbled upon a Bob & Gene record and was immediately captivated by their raw talent and soulful sound. Griffiths tracked down Bobby and Eugene, ultimately convincing them to release their unreleased recordings. In 2007, "If This World Were Mine," a compilation album featuring Bob & Gene's Mo Do sessions, was released to critical acclaim. The album transported listeners back to the vibrant Buffalo soul scene of the late 1960s, offering a glimpse into what could have been.