I have always, always, ALWAYS held a strong spot in my heart for the vocal group Manhattan Transfer. It was twelve years ago this month that I was blessed to interview them for Goldmine magazine. I’ve remained in contact with the quartet, and a true Christmas holiday isn’t complete unless I get to the Blue Note jazz club in New York City and see them perform during their week-long December trip.
I’ve seen Manhattan Transfer in concert many times, whether at the Vocal Group Hall of Fame inductions in Pennsylvania or at the Palace Theater in Albany, or at SPAC for the Freihofer’s Jazz weekend. They’re really fantastic people and are all quite nice. Heck, I think the only reason that there hasn’t been a “Manhattan Transfer on Glee” night is that I don’t think any of the New Directions kids could handle a Manhattan Transfer song without sending the Auto-Tune into overdrive.
But recently, while visiting the Manhattan Transfer’s online homepage, I discovered that the group’s lead soprano, Cheryl Bentyne, has taken a temporary leave of absence from Manhattan Transfer to recover from an acute illness. “Cheryl has been told not to travel from the care and comforts of home, and avoid any strenuous activity such as performing at 110% in high heels, which as you all know she has mastered for years.”
Personally, I wish Cheryl all the success and health and support – as do millions of Manhattan Transfer fans – as she recuperates. Manhattan Transfer have given us over 40 years of musical excitement and fun. I don’t think it’s too much to ask if Cheryl takes some time off to recover and recharge and come back when she is healthy and hearty and has that sweet soprano voice in full swing.
And while the Manhattan Transfer will remain a quartet while Cheryl is recovering – hello Margaret Dorn – we Transfer fans can’t wait until Cheryl returns!
Chuck The Writer 
I am so saddened to hear of this news just a few short days ago. I’ve had the pleasure of both knowing and writing for The Manhattan Transfer for several years, and their musical prowess is well-known across the world, and they are now legendary both as a group and individual solo artists. It’s a tough time for all concerned right now, but Cheryl has such resilience I’m sure she’ll be back onstage soon. Much positive energy and vibes to Cheryl!
Alan Glasscock
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I have loved the Transfer since I was a teenager and have, over the last 20 years, seen them dozens of times in concert. I’ve also had the good fortune to meet and spend time with them many times. They are all incredible artists and very lovely people… always gracious and also really supportive of my work. I adore Cheryl and you bet I’ll be sending some prayers and healing vibes her way!
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