The Channels are an American doo-wop group prominent in the late 1950s. Known for their harmonic, rhythm and blues-infused style, the group was led by Earl Lewis, whose distinctive tenor voice was a defining characteristic of their sound. The Channels are best remembered for their hit "The Closer You Are", which has become a classic of the genre. Despite their limited time in the limelight, the group made a significant impact on the development of doo-wop and is often cited as an influence by later artists.