Remembering Carlton Wright and the Lads of Enchantment

Last week, TCS lost another one of its own. Carlton Wright passed away on Thursday, September 26th, 2013. Carlton was 87 and an active barbershopper for most of his life. He was a member of TCS for over 30 years, making contributions to our chapter and our hobby that are no doubt still felt by the members of our chorus.

Before Carlton came to Savannah, he made another significant contribution to the world of barbershop harmony. In 1957, the Lads of Enchantment quartet (with Carlton Wright as baritone) took the gold and became the 19th quartet to take the title of International Barbershop Champions.

This tribute video to the Lads of the Enchantment will tell you more than I can. It will also give you the chance to listen to this quartet and the baritone who will be sorely missed by all of us here in Savannah.

I never got the chance to meet Carlton personally, so I've asked my chorus-mates if they would write down a fond memory or note regarding Carlton. They are below:

“I enjoyed singing with him....he was active with our chorus for a long time.” - Jack Diamond

“When Carl stood up and locked his knee in place—he was 10 feet tall... He could sing any part to any song!” - Richard Towns

“Carl was not handicapped at all.” - R. J. Hodges

“Still singing bari to “Love Me And the World is Mine.” - Milt Johnson

“Fondly recall break time in chorus rehearsal. Carl would sing most any part to a favorite song, teach a newcomer the part yet to be filled. What a barbershop ambassador!” - Bob Proctor

“Thanks for many years of great harmony.” - Derek Ball (and Connie)

“Carl was a special person, and the whole chapter will remember him! Rest in Peace!” - John Bennett

“I have many fond memories of singing with Carl. We sang together at chorus rehearsals, on Chapter shows, singouts around town, and at many social events. Probably the most fun was at events like Jack Diamond's annual picnic. I remember on more than one occasion when my quartet was polishing up a new song and Carl would want to sing (woodshed) the baritone part. We would ask him if he wanted the sheet music and he would politely decline. Then stand there and sing the bari part almost note perfect. He was a very talented singer and a true gentleman. We missed him greatly when he moved "up North" and his memory will live with me forever. I'll always cherish the memory of having the THRILL of singing with an International Champion Quartet (gold medal) winner.” - Joe Ryan 

I think that just about says it all. Carl will be missed, even by those like me who never met him. His legacy lives on, and all the spontaneous renditions of “Love Me And the World is Mine” that echoed throughout our weekly practice last night reflects the impact he had on those blessed enough to have sung with him.

All our love from Savannah and heartfelt condolences to his family. Rest in Peace, Carlton Wright.

Nathan P. Daniel
VP Marketing & Public Relations
13th Colony Sound