[4] She originally sang gospel music, working in the groups the Ellison Singers and the Golden Chords in the early 1960s.

In 1963, Ellison appeared with the Golden Chords on the Introducing The Sweet Chariot The Sensational New Pop Gospel Night Club With Soul Recorded Live album,[5] leading "Wake Me, Shake Me".

[16] Ellison composed some of her own songs (by herself and with manager and later husband, Sam Bell, who was lead singer of soul vocal group, The Enchanters).

[17] After leaving Warner, she recorded at least two unissued tracks for the then fast-growing Philadelphia International label in her hometown.

Twice-married and using the surname Gonzalez-Keys, Lorraine Ellison gave up the music business to take care of her mother, but continued to sing in church.