The Baltimore Sun reported yesterday that former Temptations singer Otis “Damon” Harris has died at the age of 62.
The Temptations’ were popular in the ‘60’s, ‘70s, and ’80 and were known for their choreography, distinct harmonies, and flashy suits.
Joining the group in 1971, replacing Eddie Kendricks, Harris sang on one of The Temptations biggest hits from 1972, “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.”
A Baltimore native, Harris was a resident of Owings Mills and died at the Joseph Richey Hospice in Seton Hill, after battling prostate cancer for 14 years. Family spokesman Chuck Woodson said he was in remission until three years ago. The cancer had "gotten pretty bad" by the end of last summer, Woodson said, leaving Harris in the hospital from November until last week, when he was transferred to the hospice.
Harris was diagnosed with the disease at the age of 47, when he was trying to make a comeback in the music industry. After being treated, Harris founded The Damon Harris Cancer Foundation in 2001. The organization is a non-profit company, designed to heighten awareness of prostate cancer diagnoses and treatments. The organization has a special focus in reaching African-American audiences.
Harris was with the band when they won three Grammy Awards and lent his voice to such hits as "Take a Look Around" and "Masterpiece."
Coming into the group Harris had to change his name from Otis to Damon since the group already had an Otis in the lineup, founding member Otis Williams.
Harris left The Temptations in 1975.
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