Arlene Smith, Sonia Goring, Rene Minus, Lois Harris, Jackie Landry Jackson
met while singing in choir at Bronx church
devotional, romantic lyrics, simple backing (like male vocal groups), sweet harmonies
Lead talking to back up singers
honest emotional intensity
predates “girl group” wave
The Chantels
• vocal harmony groups created in neighborhoods by teenagers• music for the street and the stage• mix of African-American, Italian, Latino• home of first rock venue: Brooklyn Paramount Theater
The Sound of New York City
The BelmontsDion Inducted 1989
Little Anthony & The Imperials
Inducted 2009
Frankie Lymon & the Teenagers
Inducted 1993
The Chantels
Recorded October 16, 1957, released January 1958
#15 on pop chart; #2 on R&B chart
The Chantels
“Maybe”
Prelude to the Girl Groups
*
The Shangri-Las The RonettesInducted 2007
The Chiffons
The Angels The VandellasInducted 1995
The Crystals