From the group’s beginning, the goal of THE ENTERTAINERS has been to create an unmatched sound, coupled with high-energy choreography rarely seen in the Carolinas. Added to this fine-tuned precision unit were the ultimate in sound system technology, concert lighting effects, and quality wardrobe design.
In 1980, THE ENTERTAINERS scored their first regional smash hit with LIVING FOR THE SUMMER, a song that propelled the group to the forefront of beach music, and which led to their playing the finest clubs along the Grand Strand of Myrtle Beach and other clubs, from Virginia to Florida.
The group’s years of performing experience culminated in the release of their first album, simply titled, THE ENTERTAINERS. Highlighting the group’s incredible vocal harmonies and full bodied sound, this album is still played up and down the east coast.
At the Third Annual Beach Music Awards in 1988, THE ENTERTAINERS were nominated for both the Group of the Year and Single of the Year. The group’s second album, DON’T LET YOUR LOVE GROW COLD, won Album of the Year honors.
In 1991, after 16 years with the Catalinas and 11 years with the Embers, Johnny Barker, on keyboard and vocals, joined partnership with Earl Dawkins as co-owner of the group. Barker, a noted musician and writer in the beach music industry, lists credits such as: Love Me, Always In Love, Facts of Love, and the fourth most popular beach music song of all time, Summertime’s Calling Me, a song that spawned a new generation of beach music dance styles and tempo changes. Barker also co-produced the last six Embers albums.
Dawkins, founder of The Entertainers, as well as lead singer/front man, co-wrote the groups first regional hit, “Livin for The Summer.” He appeared as a Male Vocalist contestant in1985 on “Star Search.”
On sax and vocals is Beaver Robinette, a graduate from Appalachian State University with a degree in music. Beaver also plays trumpet and flute and teaches in the North Carolina school system. His energy and soulful sax solos are always present.
Eddie Brooks on drums, has been singing and playing drums for over twenty years. His strong vocals, easy to dance to beat, and spectacular solo ability sets him apart from the rest.
On guitar and vocals is Benjie Weaver. Benjie’s guitar playing, unique vocal talents and friendly stage presence make him one of the most popular musicians around.
Entertainment so memorable that hundreds of people are still cheering from the stands.
They were awesome! Always love having them there!!...
- Kristie T T.
(Aug 16, 2014)
The Entertainers were awesome! Everyone had a wonderful time....they had us all on the dance floor...rockin' it! And Earl was great to work with. They certainly live up to their name!Thank you Ted!...
- Cindy D.
(Dec 07, 2013)
We booked The Entertainers to play for us back in May, 2010. It's hard to find the words to describe how pleased we are with that decision.My husband and I have been following Earl and his band for many years, and we knew they would put on a great sh...
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(Mar 26, 2013)
I heard nothing but great things about them from our client and our staff! They are awesome and we should use them more.Meredith R. (March 26th, 2013)Corporate Event...
- Meredith R.
(Mar 26, 2013)
The band "The Entertainmers" was GREAT!!! OMG! They played songs that took everyone at the park back (BIG SMILE). They had folks of all ages up dancing and singing and having a good time! We definitely picked the right band for our July 4th celebrati...
- Kim M.
(Jan 01, 2013)
I wanted to say what a great time we had at Benedict's Friday Feb. 6 - thanks to Earl Dawkins & The Entertainers. All 155 guests have ranted & raved about how great & TALENTED these guys were. Ages of those present ranged from 25 to 75 so it can be h...
- Debbie L.
(Jan 01, 2013)
The Entertainers were fabulous. People stayed longer this year than in my previous 14 years of attending the Art Ball and I am sure it was because of the band. Everyone had a great time. ...
- Joy F.
(Jan 01, 2013)
Earl Dawkins and The Entertainers were the perfect addition to our Block Party. In fact, they became the main attraction as more than 400 people strolled the main street of the NC Research Campus in celebration of our 3rd College President.The group ...
- Natasha L.
(Jan 01, 2013)
The Entertainers let by Earl Dawkins have given two extremely successful performances for Providence Country Club in Charlotte NC. They played for both our Member Gala and New Year's Eve Gala in 2008. Each person in the band and crew was a pleasure a...
- Jamie G.
(Jan 01, 2013)
I wanted to thank you on behalf of the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation Friends of the Heart Center, for the wonderful band the Entertainers! They completely made our entire event on September 22. I cannot brag about them enough. It is such a wonde...
- Rachel R.
(Sep 22, 2012)
The Entertainers were FABULOUS!! They were a perfect fit for our Shagging on the Shore event. All of our residents loved the night filled with beach music and great hits! Thanks for recommending them!...
- Julia B.
(Aug 24, 2012)
We had a fantastic event and The Entertainers really played to the guests. Our members had such a good time! We would most definitely hire them back again.It was a nice change up for us with a little more beach music that brought out all the "great s...
- Karen C.
(Jul 28, 2012)
We have a wide range of ages from 40-85. It is hard to hit the right mix of music with such a diverse club, but the Entertainers pulled it if off beautifully. Everyone was so impressed with the music. The Country Club was late in serving our dinner, ...
- Jim J.
(Feb 10, 2012)
The Entertainer's played for us and ABSOLUTELY were awesome. Not only was the music out of this world, the entertainment was just as good. Numerous guests told me the band was great! I have never been so pleased with the personel interaction with our...
- Debbie H.
(Oct 22, 2011)
The Entertainers were a hit for us and for our guests. Everyone so enjoyed their music. We even had a neighbor share that during the reception, she sat on her porch several yards away and listened to our music - she said it was wonderful.Earl Dawkins...
- Lucy and Ted C.
(Jun 25, 2011)
The Entertainers did a fantastic job for us at last October's (Charleston Symphony Orchestra) Benefit Ball: "Artists Helping Artists". This band lives up to its name, in many ways! In particular, Earle Dawkins was a true gentleman and a class act; he...
- Peggy V.
(Oct 01, 2010)
