The Persuasions were an American a cappella group that formed in Brooklyn, New York in 1962, singing under corner streetlights and in subway corridors.

Their style combined gospel, soul, early rock, and jazz into melodic five-part harmonies.

Zappa appreciated soul and street corner style singing, and after hearing the group, flew them to Los Angeles to record their first album.

Herbert "Toubo" Rhoad, one of the original members of the Persuasions, died in 1988 while on tour, and Raymond Sanders came in as an additional voice.

Groups as varied as Take 6, Rockapella, the Nylons, and Boyz II Men cite the Persuasions as major influences.