Brenda Reid

Brenda Reid (July 20, 1945 - April 29th 2026) was an American singer, who was lead singer of the group The Exciters best known for (U.S. #4) single "Tell Him". Brenda was partnered with fellow group member Herb Rooney.

Career In 1961, Reid joined The Masterettes, consisting of Brenda Reid on lead, Sylvia Wilbur (who later married Dickie Williams), Lillian Walker, and Carol Johnson. That group became The Exciters. The Exciters' first hit record was "Tell Him" (U.S. #4), a song written by Bert Berns and produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. "Tell Him" was recorded in late 1962 and a Scopitone music video was produced the following year. Other hit songs with Reid's vocals included "He's Got the Power", "Get Him" and Northern Soul classic "Blowing Up My Mind". The Exciters also recorded the original version of "Do Wah Diddy Diddy" in 1963; it was covered shortly after by Manfred Mann, for whom it was an international hit.

In 1975, Reid and the Exciters enjoyed a hit single with "Reachin' for the Best", produced by Rooney and young newcomer producer Ian Levine. The song was aimed at the British Northern soul scene but crossed over to the UK Singles Chart where it peaked at No. 31.

In 1978, Reid and Herb Rooney began recording as a duo. Brenda and Herb had a final R&B chart hit with "Tonight I'm Gonna Make You A Star" and released one album in 1979, In Heat Again.

Brenda's son (Mark) Cory Rooney is a songwriter and producer, known for creating hits for many famous artists.

Brenda Ried died on April 29th 2026 at the age of 80.