The Manhattan Transfer is a versatile vocal group that sings many different styles of music but, is essentially a jazz group. Through its showmanship and willingness to sing music as diverse as R&B (rhythm and blues), doo-wop, Brazilian Bosai Nova, and rock 'n' roll, it has managed to have an impact beyond jazz in its 25 year history. The Manhattan Transfer has clearly declined to be stereotyped as a jazz group. Tim Hauser of the Transfer notes that the group modeled itself on the saxophone section of the Count Basie Band, using its sound as a model for its four-part harmony.

The group has kept its basic personnel throughout most of its history. It consists of Tim Hauser, Cheryl Bentyne, Alan Paul, and Janis Siegel. Each contributes a unique sound to the overall ensemble and each is a fine soloist in his or her own right...