Long regarded as one of New York’s most accomplished session vocalists, Audrey Wheeler built a career defined by consistency, versatility and soulful finesse. A church-trained singer, she first developed her expressive style in her local choir. As a teenager, she also displayed poise beyond her years, becoming a finalist in the Miss Black America Pageant and runner-up in the Miss Black Universe contest.
Wheeler’s professional breakthrough came in the early 1980s when Bert and Ray Reid and William Anderson — former members of Crown Heights Affair — recruited her to front their new group, Unlimited Touch. The group’s self-titled debut on Prelude Records introduced her vibrant lead vocals to R&B audiences, and between 1981 and 1983 she led the act to club success with “Searching To Find The One,” now considered an early ‘80s dance favorite.
Even as she gained attention as a lead singer, Wheeler quickly became one of the era’s most in-demand background vocalists. Her voice supported a wide range of artists, including Najee, Atlantic Starr, Freddie Jackson, Glenn Jones and James “D-Train” Williams. Her ability to blend seamlessly while still adding warmth and character made her a studio favorite throughout the decade.
In 1987, Wheeler stepped into the solo spotlight with the Capitol release Let It Be Me, which included the Preston Glass-produced “Irresistible,” showcasing her polished delivery and contemporary sound.
In 1991, Nile Rodgers signed Wheeler to his BMG-distributed Ear Candy label, leading to the release of I’m Yours Tonight. Though the label soon folded, Wheeler maintained her strong reputation as both a recording and live performer. In the 2000s, Wheeler graced more recordings as a guest vocalist, most notably several songs with songwriter/producer James Day, perhaps the biggest of which was the indie soul hit “Brick By Brick.”
Beyond her own accomplishments, Wheeler is also known for her marriage to acclaimed soul singer Will Downing, forming one of contemporary soul’s respected musical partnerships.
