This is where we'll announce the most recent additions to our web site
as well as what's going on in the group harmony field. If
you've visited us before and want to know what's changed, take a look here
first. This is also where we announce recent news and our latest activities.
Site last modified March 15, 2010.
New
Message from Johnny Maestro
The
following message was sent to us from Johnny Maestro, by way of Todd Baptista.
"I would
like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for their thoughts, get
well wishes and prayers while I am undergoing treatment for cancer.I have been fortunate to be able to perform before the 'best
audiences', our loyal fans, for over 7 decades
dating back to the late 1950's. There have been no better times for myself and
the Brooklyn Bridge then when we are performing, singing the music that brings
back memories of times that we all cherish and hold dear to our hearts. I am
very grateful for the opportunity that has allowed me to do something that 'I
love' and to be able to share our music with so many people.
I want everyone to know that when I read your messages, it brightens my day
and gives me strength and determination to get back on stage. Your support is
the best medicine."
Best
Wishes.........................Johnny Maestro
Ed. note---messages of encouragement and support can be sent to
Johnny through the Brooklyn Bridge website at
New Echoes of the Past Magazine features our article
on Johnny Stiles & the Medallions on Essex
The latest issue of Echoes of the Past magazine is now
out, containing our article on Johnny Stiles and the Medallions on the Essex
label ("I Know" b/w "Laki-Lani"). In addition, there's Bob Bosco's article
on another Philadelphia group, the Ballads (Tina label), George Frunzi's
article on the Encounters and Street Corner Five and Carl Janusek's article on
Dakota Station plus a lot more. For
info on how to subscribe, email Bob Belniak at
echoes.past@yahoo.com
2010 Philadelphia Doo Wop Festival in the works!
While there has yet to be an official announcement, reliable
sources tell us that this year's Philadelphia Doo Wop Festival will take place
on September 11, 2010 at Penn's Landing. Tentative headliners will be
the Chantels and Little Isidore & the Inquisitors plus the usual great line up
of local doo wop acappella and R&B vocal groups. Festival will benefit
area veterans so save the date!
Prayers Needed for Johnny Maestro
We've been holding off mentioning this for awhile in respect
for his privacy, but since the word is now out, Johnny Maestro, the fabulous
lead singer of the Crests and Brooklyn Bridge is battling liver cancer.
We're sure we speak for all those who visit our website in saying that Johnny
is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Get well
Johnny.
Great Time at the Cornerstone CD Release Party!
We had a great time at Golden Voice Harry & Cornerstone's CD
release party at Keenan's Valley View Inn, in the Roxborough section of
Philadelphia on Friday night March 12. Cornerstone did two sets, the
first lasting about an hour and the second 45 minutes. Harry and the
guys did a mix of fan favorites as well as many songs from the new CD,
"Sharkskin, Silk & Soul." There's something on this CD for everyone,
ranging from Doo Wop to Soul to Beach Music. The CD also has the group's
original number, "When Two People Fall In Love," a song already getting
airplay in the Philadelphia area. We'll post some photos of the event on
this website in a couple days, once our computer problems are resolved.
In the meantime, we congratulate Harry, Bill, Pat and Al in reaching a new
level with this great CD. Visit
www.goldenvoiceharry.com for details.
Sheps Doo Wop Acappella Concert at Franklin Township
Public Library Another Great Success!
The March 9th Free acappella concert by the Sheps
at the Franklin Township Public Library in Somerset, NJ, was yet another
fabulous
success.
The program lasted about an hour and a half, with the Sheps singing two sets
separated by a short intermission. The Sheps laid down some fabulous
harmonies, mixing well know songs like "The Wind" with obscure collectors' songs
like "All I Want" (originally done by the Five Chances). We are currently
having computer problems that temporarily prevent us from posting photos of this
event, but we hope to have these corrected soon. Please check back with us
in a few days to see a complete review and many photos of the Sheps'
performance.
Jack Albright of Nostalgia Five Dies
We're sad to report that Jack Albright, first tenor and an
original member of the Philadelphia acappella group Nostalgia Five, passed away
on March 3, 2010. Jack and Nostalgia Five were an important part of the
Philly acappella scene during the 1980's and 1990's. Jack will be missed.
Virginia
"Legends of Gospel" Concert Review and Photos Now Posted on our Website
We've returned from the "Legends of Gospel" Concert in
Portsmouth, Virginia, produced by Reverend Brenda Boone and co-sponsored by
Classic Urban Harmony - OK, we tried to help out a little but Reverend Boone did
all the work. It was a fabulous concert that lasted six hours (non-stop)
and featured some of the biggest names in Gospel quartet singing today,
including the Sensational Nightingales, Luther Barnes & the Sunset Jubilaires,
Damon Little & Nu Beginning, Frankie Davis & the Mighty Stars, Elder Ronnie
Harper & the Harmonizing Echoes, Minister Paul Boone & the Mighty TempleAires,
Van Jones & King David's Harp, the Voices of Christ, Danny Hill & Group
Determination and many many more. Read our review of the concert and view
many photos we took by clicking
Virginia Gospel Concert.
Saturday's Presentation on Spirituals & the Jubilee
Singers is Rescheduled to March 27, 2010.
Saturday's Classic Urban Harmony Presentation on "Spirituals"
and the Jubilee Singers" for the Meadows Foundation has been rescheduled to
Saturdays March 27, 2010. If you are already registered for this presentation,
you will still be registered for the new date unless you tell us otherwise. We apologize for any
inconvenience this postponement may have caused. For more details on
this talk, please see Our Events
Calendar.
Weldon McDougal III Article in Philadelphia Tribune
This sad news just in from our friend Sonny Hatchett.
Donald "Jack" Johnson, the last of the original members of the R&B vocal
group, the Cardinals passed away Monday, February 8, 2010, three days short of
his 77th birthday. Born in East Baltimore, Jack first began singing in
church. Johnson was one of the founding members of the Cardinals, along
with Ernie Warren (lead), Meredith Brothers, Leon Hardy and guitarist Sam
Aydetotte. One of the most talented vocal groups of the 1950's, the
Cardinals are known for their smooth ballads like "Shouldn't I Know" (Jack
does the bridge), "I'll Always Love You," "The Wheel of Fortune," "The Door Is
Still Open" and "Here Goes My Heart To You."
The Cardinals, Jack Johnson second from right.
The Cardinals, Jack Johnson far left.
Classic Urban Harmony Presentation at Stonebridge at
Monroe another success!
Our latest presentation of "Under the Streetlamp: Tales From
the Doo Wop Era Part 1" at Stonebridge @ Monroe (NJ) was another success.
About 85 people enjoyed a fabulous brunch and caught our multimedia
presentation. As an added treat, special guest Shelly Buchanshy, an
original member of Vito & the Salutations took the mike and talked about how
his group got together and the groups he's singing with now. Our thanks
to the folks at Stonebridge for their hospitality and warm welcome of us.
Click
Stonebridge to view photos of the event.
New Legendary Quintet Added to the Portsmouth
Concert
The Golden Gate Quartet will not be on this concert. However, just added to the concert is Luther Barnes & the Sunset Jubilaires. Luther Barnes is one of the leading Gospel voices out there
and this great quintet out of Rocky Mount, NC, has been singing for the past
35 years. Also, doing one song to open the concert
will be The Chosen Ones from Suffolk, VA. For out-of-town attendees, a
block of discounted rooms has been added at a local hotel with a bus to take
attendees to and from the hotel and the concert church. See
Our Events Calendar
for details.
Classic Urban Harmony Assists with Gospel & Spiritual Concert: the Sensational Nightingales
and Numerous Other Gospel Groups and Soloists
Classic Urban Harmony will assist as co-sponsors as Rev. Brenda
Boone Productions & the Higher Praise Community Choir present "The Legends of
Gospel" featuring the
Sensational Nightingales, Luther Barnes & the Sunset Jubilaires, Damon Little & Nu Beginning, Frankie Davis &
the Mighty Stars, the Elder Ronnie Harper & the Harmonizing Echoes, Van Jones & King
David's Harp, Min. Paul Boone & the Mighty TempleAires, Rev. Brenda Boone & the
Higher Praise Community Choir, the Word Singers, Danny Hill & Group
Determination, The Voices of Christ, Gospel Vocalists Tracy Edwards-Wright,
Evelyn Morrisette and Kimberly Colana.
The Sensational Nightingales are also legendary, having been
formed in 1942. They are one of the greatest Gospel groups around.
Long time member Jo Jo Wallace has been with the "Gales" since the late 1940's.
If this is not enough to make you call for tickets, there will be
12 other Gospel groups, choirs and soloists. Tenor Frank Davis will perform with his own local group. Before joining the
Golden Gate Quartet, Frank lead the Soul Stirrers. Another of our favorite
groups is Van Jones & King David's Harp, a group that is right at home with
traditional Gospel quartet singing. But we could go on all day.
Click on "Our Events Calendar"
for details.
FREE Doo Wop Acappella Concert by the
SHEPS at the Franklin Township Pubic Library (Somerset, NJ) rescheduled for
Tuesday Evening, March 9 at 7 PM - NOW SOLD OUT.
For the nearly 100 people who had previously registered for the SHEPS doo wop acappella
concert at the Franklin Township Public Library (Somerset, NJ), please be
advised that this concert has been rescheduled for Tuesday evening March 9, 2010 at 7 PM. If you registered for this
concert you will automatically be registered for the new date. If for
some reason you can not attend the March 9 date, please contact the library by
emailing
events@franklintwp.org or calling
732-873-8700 X111, so we may offer your seat to someone else. This event
is now filled to capacity. Please see Our Events
Calendar for more details and a video preview of the Sheps. To to hear some
more of the Sheps
songs, visit their website by clicking
Sheps.
Delroys' Reggie Walker Dies
On January 26, 2010, Reggie Walker, lead of the Delroys on
"Bermuda Shorts" and later member of the Del Vikings passed away at the age of
68. Please click the link to read our
Tribute to Reggie Walker.
Weldon McDougal III to be Interviewed at the
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Congratulations to our good friend Weldon McDougal III for
being selected by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum in Cleveland to be
part of their "From Songwriters to Soundmen" Series! Since beginning his
music career in the 1950's Weldon has played a major role in the development
of soul music, especially in Philadelphia. Weldon will be interviewed
before a live audience on the 4th Floor Foster Theater of the R&R Hall of Fame
at 7 PM on February 17, 2010. If you're anywhere near Cleveland, don't
miss this event. Seating is Free but you must register. You can
email edu@rockhall.org
or call 216-515-8426 for reservations. This honoring of Weldon is well
deserved and couldn't happen to a nicer guy.
Weldon McDougal III with Charlie & Pam
Herman Dunham, Original Lead Singer of the
Solitaires Dies at Age of 73.
We were shocked and saddened
to learn of the passing of one of the great voices of our time, Herman Dunham,
original lead of the Solitaires. Herman died Sunday January 31 in New
York City. Herman had been back singing with the Solitaires since 2008
when he rejoined them to do reunion concerts like the Black Swan Concert. The duel leads between Herman and
Milton Love made the Solitaires one of the best vocal groups around. We
last saw Herman sing at the Remembering Ronnie I Concert in November 2009 and
he was fabulous! Herman is best known for his lead vocals on such
Solitaires' classics as "Blue Valentine" and "Please Remember My Heart."
He recorded with the Vocaleers prior to joining the Solitaires. Our
condolences to the Solitaires and to Herman's family. Visit our
Herman Dunham
Tribute to read about his musical career and view more photos of
Herman. [We've now added label scans.]
Herman Dunham (left) and
Milton Love at the Black Swan Concert, 2008
In less than a year and a
half, our website has surpassed the 20,000 visitors mark!!!! This is
beyond our wildest expectations. Our sincere thanks to all of you who
have made this site so successful.
Classic Urban Harmony Presentation at Canal Walk
Active Adult Community - January 15, 2010
Our recent presentation of
"Under the Streetlight: Tales from the Doo Wop Era - Part 1" at Canal Walk
Active Adult Community in Somerset, NJ, was a huge success. The capacity
crowd of 165 people was one of the more knowledgeable and enthusiastic
audiences we've had. Click
Canal
Walk to read about and view photos of this event.
The South Philly String Band Club Revisited -
January 13, 2010
We can't get enough of this
place! Even though it's a long drive for us, we try to get to this twice
a month Wednesday night event whenever we can. On January 13, 2010, we
were there to see the acappella group Quiet Storm as well as some impromptu
harmony by Junior & the Four Seniors. Click
South Philly Stringband Club
Jan 2010 to see some photos of the event.
Classic Urban Harmony and the Meadows Foundation Celebrate Black History Month
with a Presentation on the Early History of Spirituals and Jubilee Groups -
March 27, 2010.
Classic Urban Harmony is proud to announce our newest
presentation,
"African-American Spirituals and Jubilee Groups of the 19th and Early 20th
Centuries." We'll give the Spirituals talk for the Meadows
Foundation in Somerset NJ on Saturday afternoon, 2-4 PM, March 27. See our Events
Calendar for details.
Tribute to Eddie Edgehill of the Valentines and
Del-Knights
Our friend Eddie Edgehill
passed away on January 13, 2010, in Philadelphia. He was 74. Eddie
is best known to group harmony enthusiasts as the second tenor of the
Valentines on songs like "Lily Maebelle," "I Love
You Darling," "Christmas Prayer," "Nature's Creation" and "Woo Woo Train," but
he also spent several years singing with the Del-Knights (Unart, Sheryl,
Chancellor and Bronko labels). Eddie also sang with Terry Johnson's
Modern Flamingos. Eddie suffered a heart attack on January 4 and died on
January 13 at Temple Hospital in Philadelphia. We've now posted a
tribute to him on this site. Click
Eddie Edgehill Tribute to view it. He was 75.
Eddie sang with the Valentines and Del-Knights. We've posted a detailed
tribute to Eddie on this website, including his years with the Valentines and
Del-Knights.
We've included many photos, label scans and a discography.
Eddie Edgehill (second from left) with the Valentines
New Classic Urban Harmony Presentations Announced
Classic Urban Harmony is proud to announce our newest
presentations,
"African-American Spirituals and Jubilee Groups of the 19th and Early 20th
Centuries" and "Doo Wop Groups of New Jersey." We'll give
the Spirituals talk for the Meadows Foundation in Somerset NJ on Saturday afternoon February 20. We'll give the New Jersey Group talk for the
first time at the Franklin Township Public Library in Somerset, NJ, on April
21. We'll also have a display of New Jersey vocal group photos and
memorabilia set up in the Library's display case throughout the month of
April. See our Events
Calendar for details.
Teddy Pendergrass Dies
In yet another bit of sad news, soul singer Teddy Pendergrass
died January 14 at the age of 59. Vocal group fans remember Teddy as the
lead of Philadelphia's Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes in the 1970's.
Teddy led songs like "The Love I Lost," "If You Don't Know Me By Now" and "Bad
Luck."
Courier News/Home News Tribune Article Now Posted on
Our Website
For anyone who might have missed it, we've now posted Chris
Jordan's article about us,
"Sweet Songs: Somerset Couple Strives to Keep Doo-Wop
Music Alive," on our website. It's reprinted from the
Courier News (Bridgewater, NJ) and the Home News Tribune (East
Brunswick, NJ), November 15, 2009, pp. B1-2.
Classic Urban Harmony Visits the Star Diner in
Rumford, Rhode Island.
Classic Urban Harmony visited the Star Diner in Rumford, RI on
December 26, 2009, to give a mini-presentation and meet fans of vocal group
harmony in Rhode Island. We spoke for about a half hour about groups
from the Washington Heights area like Frankie Lymon & the Teenagers, Lewis
Lymon & the Teenchords and Jimmy Castor & the Juniors. We also brought
with us our collections of doo wop sheet music, photos and lobby cards for
display. There were plenty of area singers present, including Cal Raye
of the Class-Airs, members of Ronnie & the Satellites and the acappella group
Flashback. After our presentation Flashback serenaded the crowd with
some great harmony, at one point being joined by Cal Raye. We plan on
returning to the
Star Diner soon to give a formal presentation. Click
Star Diner Event to
see photos of our Rhode Island visit.
New Holiday Harmony Song Spotlighted - the Drifters'
"White Christmas"
Just in time for the holidays we've spotlighted another holiday
harmony song. Last year we gave you the story of the Orioles' "Lonely
Christmas." This year we've picked the Drifters' "White Christmas" to
feature. Click Drifters
"White Christmas" to read about and see photos, label scans,
YouTubes and much more - all pertaining to the Drifters' "White Christmas."
Happy Holidays!!!
Remembering Ronnie I. Concert Photos now Posted on
our Website.
On November 28, 2009, a concert was held in Lodi, NJ, to
celebrate the life of Ronnie Italiano (Ronnie I.), President and Founder of
the United in Group Harmony Association. The concert was produced and
MC's by Sandi Italiano and featured performances by Cornerstone, the
Devotions, the Clickettes, the Cliftonaires, the Solitaires and the
Harptones. We thought you'd enjoy seeing some of the photos we took
that night. To view them, click
Remembering Ronnie I.
Tribute to Carolina Beach Music Star, Bobby Smith of
the Poor Souls
When Bobby Smith of the Poor
Souls died on November 29, 2009, it was a loss to both Carolina Beach Music
fans as well as those who follow 1950's style group harmony. Of all the
modern era (post 1965) Beach Music groups, the Poor Souls did the most to
reconstruct the R&B vocal harmonies of the early and mid-1950's. Visit our
tribute to Bobby
Smith of the Poor Souls, including label scans of all their
records, a discography, and rare never before published photos of the Poor
Souls from
1982.
New Profile on Gospel Group, Claude Jeter & Swan
Silvertones Posted!
As the year 2009 comes to a close, we begin to look back all
that's happened this year, both good and bad. In January we lost Claude
Jeter, legendary lead of the gospel group, the Swan Silvertones. Whether
you're into Gospel, R&B, Doo Wop or Soul group harmony, all these fields owe a
debt to Claude Jeter. Claude is mostly responsible for, among other
things, the use of falsetto leads in group harmony. Claude Jeter never
quite got the recognition he deserved, a fact made clear to us by James
Power's tribute song to him, "The Man In Room 1009." We thought it time
to add a new Profile In Harmony to this website, one on Claude Jeter and the
Swan Silvertones. Whether you like gospel music or just love group
harmony, check out our latest profile by clicking
Swan Silvertones.[Just added courtesy of Bob Marovich is a rare autographed photo of
the Swan Silvertones from the late 1940's!!!]
Photos and Review of the Philadelphia Group Harmony
Association (PGHA)'s Heavenly Harmony XII Concert
On October 3, 2009, the Philadelphia Group Harmony Association
(PGHA) held their 12th Heavenly Harmony Concert in Philadelphia. Classic
Urban Harmony was there to take in the event. To see Pam's review and
our many photos of this great concert featuring the Encounters, the
Balladeers, Joel Katz & the Dynamics, Joe Cariati & the Delmonicos and Little
Isidore, Angel Rissoff and the Inquisitors, click
Heavenly Harmony
XII.
Fisk Jubilee Singers Nominated for a Grammy!!!
The Fisk Jubilee Singers, a vocal ensemble that traces its
origins back to 1871 has been nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best
Gospel Performance. Nominated is "I Believe" by Jonny Lang with the Fisk
Jubilee Singers. Tune in on January 31 to see if they win.
Chantels Again Overlooked in their Quest for
Induction Into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Once again we are disappointed to report that the Chantels were
denied entrance to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame after being nominated.
Those to be inducted in 2010 will be Abba, Genesis, the Hollies, the Stooges
and Jimmy Cliff. We are pleased to report that songwriters Jesse Stone
and Otis Blackwell will be among those recognized.
Group Harmony World Loses Three More Singers
The world of group harmony was saddened to learn of the passing
of three more of its own this week; Our good friend Wes Hayes of the Dreams,
Al Alberts of the Four Aces and Bobby Smith of the Carolina Beach music group,
the Poor Souls.
Recently
Updated Mailbox Page
Check out all the interesting new emails we've gotten over the
past few months. See what your fellow site visitors are saying!
Click Mailbox.
Difficulties with our Website
We had serious problems with website lately, which is why we
haven't been able to update it until now. What's more, those of you who
view our site through AOL or Netscape browsers may have had days when you
couldn't visit us at all. If this happens again and you can turn off
your AOL browser and view us through Internet Explorer or Firefox you
shouldn't have any trouble. We are working to correct our website issues
and apologize for any inconveniences we've caused.
Classic
Urban Harmony subject of article in central NJ newspapers
Charlie & Pam
Horner and Classic Urban Harmony were the subject of Chris Jordan’s well
written article in the November
15, 2009 Courier News and Home News Tribune central NJ newspapers.
The response has been fabulous, sending hundreds of new visitors to this
website and opening up new opportunities for us to give our group harmony
presentations. Many of you had trouble viewing the article on line,
partly because our directions were confusing. We've now made it easier
by providing a direct link to the article, now archived on the newspapers'
website. Click
ClassicUrbanHarmony to read about us.
Then use you back button to returm to our website.
“Doo
Wop at the South Philly Stringband Club” Honors Its Founders and Staff
The founders and staff of the “Doo Wop at the South Philly Stringband Club”
were honored this Veterans Day (September 11, 2009) when the members of the
audience gave them a surprise testimonial. Expecting the usual Wednesday
night acappella-fest, Bobby Buerklin, Eddie Natale and all the others who work
tirelessly to keep our music alive in Philadelphia, were stunned to see no
less than seven acappella groups arrive to sing for the packed club.
We’ve tried to capture the excitement of that night with the photos. Click
South Philly Stringband Club Doo Wop Testimonial
to take a look. Most of all, we at Classic Urban Harmony want to
express our gratitude to Bobby, Eddie and all who have helped them make “Doo
Wop at the South Philly Stringband Club” such a success.
Classic
Urban Harmony Takes Part in Documentary on Acappella Vocal Groups
Read about Visual Communications Group, Inc.'s visit to Classic
Urban Harmony Headquarters while filming a documentary on the art of acappella
group harmony. Click
Acappella Documentary.
Chantels
Release New CD!
Our friends the Chantels
have notified us that they've just released a new CD and it's a nice one! You
can click on the YouTube below to hear a couple songs from it. To those
visitors to our website that have voting privileges, don't forget the Chantels
are nominees for this year's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. They
deserve to get in!!! For information on how to purchase the Chantels new CD
email
BarCagency@aol.com.
[The YouTube below is presented with the Chantels' permission.]
The
Vic Donna Story Now Posted on Our Website
Our "Vic Donna
Story", originally in the September issue of "Echoes of the Past" magazine is
now also posted on our website. Click
Vic Donna
Story to view and then use the Back Button to return to this page.
To read about Vic's new CD or to hear a Vic Donna & the Parakeets singing
"Teenage Rose," scroll down.
New
Vic Donna CD now available!
The long awaited
Vic Donna CD is finally been released! Many of you enjoyed our article
on Vic Donna in the September issue of "Echoes of the Past." [The
Vic Donna Story is now also available on this website.] Now Vic has
recorded a new CD of songs he used to sing back in the day - some from the
street corners of Brooklyn, some written by the Parakeets and Fi-Tones but
never recorded. Vic has recorded 13 such songs acappella with Vic
singing all the voices! In addition the CD includes all the recorded
songs by Vic Donna and the Parakeets and Fi-Tones. It includes "Teenage
Rose," "Love Was A Stranger To Me." "Count The Tears," "My Life Is In Your
Hands," and "To Know You Care." If you're not familiar with Vic Donna,
we've embedded a YouTube of his "Teenage Rose" below. To purchase the
CD, go to
www.widetracksound.com or call702-808-1921.
[Permission was
obtained from Vic Donna to use the song/photos below to our website.]
Chris Bartley Tribute Now Posted on this Website.
On October
26, 2009, the world lost another golden voice. Chris Bartley, R&B, Soul,
Doo Wop and Gospel singer died of kidney failure at the age of 62.
Chris Bartley gave us some great sixties soul records like "The Sweetest
Thing This Side Of Heaven," even before joining the Ad Libs in the 1970's.
To read about Chris' career as a singer, including many photos, click on our
Chris Bartley
Tribute Page.
Alexander "Pete" Dixon of the Visions Passes
Just heard
from Alshaun Dixon, who's father was Alexander Dixon of the Visions on the
Original Sound label. Alexander "Pete" Dixon passed away
a couple weeks ago at the age of 71. Dixon was lead singer of the
Visions, a Los Angeles vocal group that recorded "Look At Me Now' b/w
"Cigarettes" in 1963. The group performed on the "Chitlin Circuit" and
in clubs around L.A. throughout the 1960's. Pete Dixon later sang with
the Echoes of Eden Choir at St. Paul Baptist Church and the Wings Over
Jordan Choir in Los Angeles.
(From the
Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
Our next article for Echoes of the Past
magazine will be on the Plurals!
Our next article for Echoes of the Past magazine, due out in
December, is about the Plurals. The Newark, New Jersey group is best
known for their 1958 song, "Miss Annie."
For info on how to subscribe, email Bob Belniak at
echoes.past@yahoo.com
Charlie & Pam Return from Italy, Greece and Turkey
(Charlie & Pam in Mykonos, Greece, October 2009)
We are back! In case you've noticed our sparse activity
on this website over the past couple of weeks, it's because we've been taking
a break from the music in order to cruise the Mediterranean. Our travels
took us to Italy (Rome, Sicily, Naples and Capri), Greece (Mykonos, Athens and
Santorini) and Turkey (Epheses). We apologize to those of you who depend
on our website to get your weekly fix of group harmony news and for falling
behind in our Events Calendar. In the rush to get away we neglected to
post some area events. We hope they were successful anyway. We are
now hard at work again having completed our tribute to our friend John Wilson.
We also met a fine young acappella group on the cruise ship, called Soul'D
Out. See below to link to our write up on them.
Acappela Group "Soul'D Out" Rocks Cruise Ship
On our recent Mediterranean cruise on board the Celebrity
Solstice, we were pleasantly surprised to hear a young acappella group named
Soul'D Out. The group performs a variety of music styles in tight
acappella harmony. To see our photos of the group and listen to a
YouTube clip, click Soul'D
Out.
Silhouettes' John Wilson Tribute Now
Posted
On September 21, 2009, we lost our friend John Wilson, the last
member of the Silhouettes. We were fortunate to have interviewed John
when he visited us in February and have now posted a tribute to John "Bootsie"
Wilson, including his bio and many photos. Click
Silhouettes' John
Wilson Tribute.
Article
Tells the True Story of how Michael Jackson came to Motown Records.
It's about time someone set the record straight on how Michael
Jackson came to record for Motown! We've known for some time that our
good friend Weldon A. McDougal III played a key role in getting the Jackson
Five a contract with Motown. Finally an article has been published in
Goldmine magazine that gives Weldon credit! Click
Weldon-Michael Jackson Article to read about
it. The hit the Back Button to return to our website.
Weldon A. McDougal III and Charlie Horner, September 2009
(Photo by Pamela Horner)
In just over fourteen months of existence, our website,
www.classicurbanharmony.net,
has now seen more than fifteen thousand (15,000) visitors. Our sincere thanks to all of
you who share our devotion to group harmony!
Golden Gate Quartet Concert in Suffolk VA -
POSTPONED!!!!
We've just received word that the Golden Gate
Quartet's concert, originally scheduled for October 25 in Suffolk, VA. has
been postponed until Sunday February 28, 2010. Please Check Our Events
Calendar for more details.
Chantels
Nominated for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Our friends the Chantels have been nominated for induction into
the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Only 5 of the 12 acts nominated will be
inducted at the Annual Induction Ceremony on March 15, 2010. We don't have
a vote, but if we did, the Chantels would be our choice!
Classic Urban Harmony's Doo Wop Part 2 Presentation at the Bridgewater
(NJ) Public Library, September 24, 2009.
We had a great time returning to the Bridgewater Public Library.
Celebrity guests in attendance were our friends Bobby Thomas (Vibanaires &
Orioles) and Bill Keith (Blendtones, A Moments Pleasure, Philadelphia Students &
Accords). See photos from latest our presentation of "Under the Streetlamp:
Tales From the Doo Wop Era - Part 2"
by clicking
Bridgewater Public Library on September 24, 2009.
Classic Urban Harmony's Doo Wop Part 3 Presentation at the Franklin Township
(NJ) Public Library, September 22, 2009.
See photos from our first presentation of "Doo Wop - Part 3"
(including one of the rare penny arcade acetate by the Quantrells) by clicking
Franklin Township Public Library on September 22, 2009.
Special guests in attendance were Vic Donna (Parakeets, Sharps, Compliments),
Shelly Buchansky (Vito & Salutations, Five Discs, Kid Kyle's Kool Kats & Silk
City), Ron Taylor (Del Larks), Jim Bakey (Street Corner Five). Among the
radio personalities there, in additions to Jim Bakay, were Steve Propes, Lou
Rallo and Carl Tancredi and music historian Steve Applebaum.
New Section
Added to Classic Urban Harmony Website
We've added a new section to our website.
From now on photos of all our past Classic Urban Harmony presentations and
events can be reached through the section called
Past
Presentation Photo Album. Hope you like it.
Dancing and
Vocal Group Harmony on the Battleship New Jersey
The deck of a battleship seems like an unusual place to find
vocal harmony. But this was one ship that rocked without sending us
running for the Dramamine. See our pictures of 5/3 Woodland and 45 RPM by
clicking Battleship.
The WVTL Cruisin' 92.1 Dinner, Doo Wop and a Sock Hop
See our photos and review of the WLVT Cruisin' 92.1 Dinner, Doo
Wop and a Sock Hop in Pittsgrove, NJ, on September 18, 2009. Not only did
we get to see three great acappella vocal groups (Joey P. and His Emeralds,
Quiet Storm and Joe Cleary & the Balladeers) but we were surprised with a
special appearance by our friend Jimmy Merchant, an original member of the
Teenagers! Click
WVLT Concert to take a look.
Photos from
the Tymes' Norman & Peggy Burnett's Annual BBQ
When the Tymes' Norman Burnett and his wife Peggy throw their
annual BBQ there's always great food and great company. The guests
always include many of our friends from the Philadelphia area music scene.
We thought you'd like to see some photos from this year's get-together.
If so, click
Burnett 2009 BBQ.
Rare Photos of
Castelles' Billy Taylor with the CLOVERS added to our Billy Taylor Tribute
Page!
With all the
groups Castelles' Billy Taylor sang with it's easy to forget to
mention one or two. We always used to have to remind Billy
that he was once a member of the Clovers, if only for a short
time. For about a month in mid-1987, Billy Taylor sang with
Harold Lucas' Clovers while they performed in the lounge of one of
the Atlantic City casinos. We have now posted some of our
unpublished photos of Billy singing with the Clovers.
They're on our
Billy Taylor Tribute Page.
We hope you like them.
John
Farrington of A Moments Pleasure Passes
We are saddened to report the death of our friend John
Farrington of the Philadelphia acappella vocal group, A Moments Pleasure.
John passed away on September 16, 2009. John was a good friend and he'll
be missed.
A Moments Pleasure with John Farrington on the far right.
All Star
Acappella Productions (ASAP) is no more.
We are sorry to report that ASAP (All Star Acappella
Productions), the organization that formed several months ago to produce
monthly acappella shows in northern New Jersey, will no longer continue to
operate. There apparently was not enough support for the organization
for them to be successful. When people fail to attend shows in their
area, it seriously hurts our music. The less people producing shows, the
less work there is for vocal groups. Singing groups can not continue to
rehearse day after day for a couple gigs a year. We at Classic Urban
Harmony try to support any events that keep our music alive. If there's
a group harmony event in your area, go out and see it. We thank Gil and
his staff at ASAP for the wonderful shows they did produce.
Classic
Urban Harmony visits the 2009 Charleston Beach Music & Shag Festival
For the second year in a row we've traveled to
South Carolina to catch part of the Charleston Beach Music & Shag
Festival. We're glad to report this year was again
spectacular. To read Pam's review and view scores of photos
of the Tams, Catalinas, Swingin' Medallions and East Coast Party
Band, click
2009 Charleston Beach Music Festival.
Since we started
this website a little more than a year ago, one of our goals was to give credit
to the many vocal groups whose history has been overlooked. Over the
years, we and other historians have come across photos of groups that we
couldn't identify. We started posting photos of these yet-to-be-identified
photos, hoping visitors to this site could help us ID them. We've not been
disappointed. We happily announce that Unknown Groups # 3 and # 5 have now
been identified. That means we've now identified 5 of the 8 unknown
groups! To see the names of Unknown Groups numbers 3 and 5, and to read
how and by whom they've been identifies, click
Unknown Groups.
And while you're on that page, take a look at the remaining three groups.
You might just recognize them.
New Updates to this website include a
greatly expanded list of group harmony concerts we support on
Our Events Calendar.
We've also posted a lot of emails on our
Mailbox Page.
New Echoes of the Past Magazine now out with our
article on Vic Donna!
The latest issue
of Echoes of the Past magazine (#89) is now out. It contains our article
on Vic Donna and the different groups he recorded with (the Parakeets, Fi-Tones,
Sharps, Compliments, etc.) What a fascinating life story! Also in
the issue are Bob Bosco's article on the Kings Five/United Four, George Frunzi's
article on Val Shively (Part 2), articles on the Mighty Jupiters, Caribbeans and
much more. For info on how to subscribe, email Bob Belniak at
echoes.past@yahoo.com
August 21, 2009 - Our entire Classic Urban
Harmony staff (Charlie & Pam) just returned from a well deserved vacation in Quebec
City, Canada. We had a great time, though the only music related activity
we attended was a fabulous Johnny Cash Tribute Show, performed by Shawn Barker
at au Cabaret du Capitole. Monsieur Barker (actually, he said he's from from St. Louis)
does a fabulous job of singing and even looking like Johnny Cash. He and
his band performed for about an hour, took a twenty minute break, and then
returned for another forty-five minutes of singing. They covered Johnny
Cash's career from the early Sun label songs through his final
recordings. We know Johnny Cash's music has nothing to do with classic
urban harmony but we like to credit talent when we see it.
Charlie & Pam in Quebec City
Unfortunately, being out of the country, we were
not able to attend the memorial service for our friend Billy Taylor. We do
hope to receive photos from others who were at the service to add to our Billy
Taylor tribute very soon.
From
Canada we also heard the news of Les Paul's passing. Les Paul, of course
did have a big effect on group harmony. Think of how many R&B and R&R
group recordings make use of an electric guitar! In addition, Les Paul's
two recordings with the Delta Rhythm Boys are phenomenal. From our hotel
room in Quebec, (thanks to WiFi) we were able to convert our review of Les' last
show to a tribute (see below).
Prior to our trip, we learned from Carl Fisher of
the passing of David Govan, long time member of the Jayhawks, Marathons and
Vibrations. We've also just heard that Johnny Carter, legendary tenor of
the Flamingos and the Dells just died (see below).
Anyway, we're back and ready to tackle more than
a hundred emails that backed up while we were gone. If we haven't answered
yours yet, please be patient.
- C&P
Johnny Carter, legendary floating tenor for the Flamingos and the Dells died of
lung cancer on August 20, 2009. Born June 2, 1934, John Carter was an
original member of the Flamingos and recorded with them on the Chance, Parrot
and Checker labels. He was drafted in 1956 and after getting out of
the service, Johnny joined the Dells in late 1959. John Carter remained
with the Dells throughout the rest of their career. He had one of the more
distinctive voices in R&B history.
Flamingos on the Chance label
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
David Govan, baritone
of the Jayhawks, Vibes, Marathons and Vibrations passed away this past May.
David Govan (August 2, 1940 - May 1, 2009).
Jayhawks with Dave Govan in center.
(Photo courtesy of Jayhawks' & Vibrarions' Carl Fisher)
We were shocked this week to hear of the passing of guitar legend Les Paul.
Several weeks ago we went to see Les perform at the Iridium Club in NYC, just a
week before his 94th birthday. Les and his trio were fabulous!
Little did we know at the time that that night would be his final performance.
We posted photos of that night on our website that we've now turned into a
tribute. To see our write up and photos of Les Paul's final night at the
Iridium, click
Les Paul Tribute.
We
are saddened to announce the passing of our friend, the Castelles' Billy Taylor.
Click HERE for our tribute to Billy Taylor and his singing career with the Castelles,
Dreams, Spaniels, Orioles, Cobras, Modern Red Caps, Dominoes and Clovers.
We're adding more and more photos so revisit this page often. If you have
photos of Billy Taylor you'd like to add, please email them to us.
We also mourn the passing on July 24, 2009, of Warren Suttles, last surviving
member of the original Ravens.
Ravens' Warren Suttles, Leonard Puzey, Maithe Marshall with Charlie Horner, 1988
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
If you missed our
FREE Acappella Concert by CHOICE on August 6, you missed a great event.
We've now posted a review and many photos from the event. Click
Choice Concert to take a look!.
Keep Rockin', New Fifties and Sixties
magazine now out!
We've recently
become aware of a new magazine dedicated to the life and times of 1950's and
early 1960's. The magazine is called Keep Rockin' and it covers
everything from cars to comics to culture. Plenty of coverage of music
too, including interviews with people like Jimmy Beaumont of the Skyliners and
Lou Christie. It's an enjoyable read. To learn more, check out Keep
Rockin' website through our
Links Page.
www.classicurbanharmony.net
Turns One Year
Old!
On August 1, 2009, our website
begins its second year. Thanks to all of you, over the first year we've
averaged more than a thousand hits per month. We'll keep adding
interesting articles, photos, reviews and music news as long as you keep
stopping by.
Dancing with the American Bandstand Stars
Fundraiser
We recently learned of a fundraiser to repair the deteriorating
floor of the Original American Bandstand Studio at 46th & Market Streets in
Philadelphia and decided to cover this worthy event. In addition to
getting to dance on the Bandstand floor next to some of the original Bandstand
dancers, we got to hear two excellent vocal groups, the Accords and the Phyllies
Intruders and meet up with Steve Caldwell of the Orlons and Joe Terry of Danny &
the Juniors. See photos of the event and read Pam's review by clicking
American
Bandstand Fundraiser.
Classic Urban Harmony Returns to the South Philly
String Band Club to Catch Acappella Groups "Memory Lane" and "The Balladeers"
When, in May, we posted a page on the twice-a-month acappella doo
wop fest at the South Philly String Band Club it became one of our most visited
articles. We went back this June to see the acappella groups, Memory Lane
and the Balladeers. Click
South Philly String Band Club Revisited to see more photos and an
update on this great harmony get-together. To get on the mailing list for
the South Philly String Band Club, contact Eddie Natale at his new email
address,
eddie7792@gmail.com
Pre-Motown and Other Early Jackson Five Rare
Records
With all the tributes to Michael Jackson, little attention is
being paid to the early pre-Motown records by Michael and the rest of the
Jackson Five. The Jacksons grew up in Gary, IN, the city that gave us the
Spaniels and Vee Jay Records. Classic Urban Harmony dug deep into
our archives to give you a pictorial history of some of the Jackson Five's
earliest and rarest records. Click
Jackson
Five to take a look.
Four Man Trio at Dover, NJ's Attilio's Tavern
One of the most entertaining acts in northern New Jersey today is
the vocal group and self-contained band, Four Man Trio. Click
Here
to see our write up and photos from the Four Man Trio's recent performance at
Attilio's Tavern in Dover, NJ. When you're finished reading about the Four
Man Trio, be sure to visit their website through our
Links Page.
New Acappella
Organization, ASAP, Holds its First Concert in Paramus, New
Jersey
All Star Acappella Productions (ASAP) just held its first
monthly acappella concert at the Paramus (NJ) Elks Club and it was a
fabulous time. The show featured the Encounters, the Larkings,
Echoes of Time and special guests, Joel Katz and the Dynamics. Click
Here to read
Pam's review and see many photos of the event as Classic Urban Harmony
visits ASAP. For information on future ASAP events, see our
Events Calendar,
click on their Link from our
Links Page, or call
347-692-6209.
Nicky
Addeo at Asbury Park's Wonder Bar
One of our favorite singers is New Jersey's own Nicky Addeo.
When Nicky began what we hope will be an extended Sunday night stay at
Asbury Park's musically historic Wonder Bar, we were right there to see him.
Read Pam's review and see photos by clicking
Here.
Charlie's Article on Tyrone & Nu-Ports & Pam's Article on
Deborah Chessler now Posted on this Website
We've now posted Charlie's article, "Fell
Like A Million: The Story of
Tyrone & the Nu-Ports" and Pam's
article, "An Evening With
Deborah Chessler: Songwriter and Former
Manager of the Orioles at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame" on
this website under Articles by Us. Both were originally
published in Echoes of the Past magazine. We've updated
and added to the photos in the Nu-Ports article. Just click
the highlighted links to see each.
If you're not already a regular subscriber to
Echoes, you're missing out on the many other fascinating
articles this magazine has to offer, plus a chance to read our
articles months before they are posted here. Don't miss a single issue of the only magazine
expressly dedicated to 1950's R&B and doo wop vocal harmony.
For the next issue, due out in September 2009, we're working on an
article about Vic Donna & the Parakeets!
Guitar
Legend Les Paul's 94th Birthday
Classic Urban Harmony visits New
York City's Iridium Jazz Club to catch
Les Paul on the eve of his 94th birthday!
In just over nine months of existence, our website,
www.classicurbanharmony.net,
has now seen more than ten thousand (10,000) visitors. Our sincere thanks to all of
you who share our devotion to group harmony!
Classic Urban Harmony Announces Its New Upcoming
Events: Free Acappella Concert by CHOICE in August and Doo Wop Part 3
Presentation in September, Plus More!!!
Check out the dates for our new
Doo Wop
Presentation Part 3 as well as a free acappella concert at Somerset, NJ's
Franklin Township Public Library. View these as well as other upcoming events we highly
recommend. Visit our Events
Calendar Page.
Acappella
& Doo Wop at the South Philly String Band Club
Twice a month the South Philly
String Band Club comes alive with great acappella harmony.
Click here
to read about and see photos of Philly's hottest group harmony happening.
Charlie Horner Reunited with Old
Radio Console As Classic Urban Harmony Visits NJ Station WDVR-FM
Come with Charlie & Pam to NJ
radio station WDVR-FM as Charlie visits the vintage radio console he used to
engineer at some thirty-five years ago! Click
WDVR.
Echoes
of the Past Magazine now out with Charlie's Article on Tyrone & Nu-Ports & Pam's Article on
Deborah Chessler
The latest issue of Echoes of the Past
magazine is now out. It features Charlie's eight-page article, "Fell
Like A Million: The Story of Tyrone & the Nu-Ports" and Pam's
article, "An Evening With Deborah Chessler: Songwriter and Former
Manager of the Orioles at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame". Also
in the issue are Bob Bosco's article on the Fantasys, George
Frunzi's article on Val Shively plus
more.
Don't miss a single issue of the only magazine
expressly dedicated to 1950's R&B and doo wop vocal harmony.
For the next issue, due out in September 2009, we're working on an
article about Vic Donna & the Parakeets!
The magazine is available from Echoes of the Past, P.O. Box 40,
Agawam, MA 01001-0040 or email
echoes.past@yahoo.com. Subscription rates in U.S. are $16.99 for
1-Year (4 Issues).
Forty Years of Group Harmony: Photo Gallery of the Ad Libs, Vintage,
Bon-Aires, Reunion & East River Drive
Singer Ray Block shares with us some photos of some great New
Jersey R&B and acappella groups he sang with between 1970 and the present.
To take a look at great photos of Vintage, the Ad-Libs, the Bon-Aires, East
River Drive and Reunion,
CLICK HERE.
Since we've added this feature, we were informed by Ray Block of
the passing of Abby Grant, who is pictured in many of Ray's photos. Abby
died at 11 PM on May 3, 2009. Abby will be remembered by these photos and
for the great music she gave us. She will be dearly missed.
New
Oldies Calendar to Debut This June!
With the passing of their publisher, Tony De Rienzo, the Golden Oldies
Forever Concert Calendar came to an end. Fortunately, a new concert calendar is beginning.
It's called It's About The Music! and it
promises to be all that we came to depend on Golden Oldies Forever
for. It's even compiled and edited by the same person, our friend
Andrea Siegel. The new concert calendar will again be the most comprehensive schedule of upcoming events in the oldies and
group harmony scene, countrywide. Fabulous listings of events, venues,
radio & Internet shows, producers, promoters, artists and record stores
and contacts for hundreds of active vocal groups. Plus, Classic Urban
Harmony's own Pamela Horner will be contributing occasional reviews of
recent concerts. Since the new magazine does not yet have a website,
you can contact Andrea for a subscription at
doowops429@aol.com. For those in the
U.S., it's $30 for three issues a year. You can make your check out to
"LTD Enterprises, Inc." and send it to Andrea Siegel, 291 Brookfield Avenue,
Staten Island, NY 10308.
Philadelphia Group Harmony
Association Debuts It's New Website!
Mr. Lee, President of the Philadelphia Group Harmony
Association, announced the introduction of PGHA's new website.
Check out
www.pgha.info for PGHA's latest newsletter, now online.
Also on the site is a calendar of group harmony and doo wop concerts
in the Philadelphia area and a listing of vocal group radio and
Internet radio programs. The site is still partially under
construction but it looks like it's going to be a great one.
We at Classic Urban Harmony are proud members of PGHA and urge to to
visit the PGHA website and support this fine organization.
Philadelphia Group Harmony Association Announces
Concerts for 2009!
PGHA has announced two new group harmony concerts
taking place on July 18 and October 3. Tickets are on sale now
for the first concert with Kenny Vance & the Planetones and the
Encounters, to take place in Medford, NJ. For details check
out our Events Calendar
Page or visit
www.pgha.info.
Happy
60th Birthday to the Vinyl 45 RPM Record!!!! - A Newly Featured Page
The vinyl 45 RPM single was born 60 years ago on March 31, 1949.
That's the date RCA Victor sent out press releases announcing the new format for
music. A couple days later, on April 2, Billboard magazine
announced the news. The 45 RPM vinyl single ushered in the Golden Age of
Rhythm & Blues Vocal Groups as well as the Rock & Roll Era of the 1950's.
Click on the 60th
Anniversary of the
45 to read our tribute to these amazing little unbreakable disks.
And while you're at it, climb up in your attic, retrieve that old box of vinyl
45's, blow the dust off them and give them a spin. HAPPY BIRTHDAY "45's".
Next Echoes
of the Past Magazine to carry Charlie & Pam's Article on Tyrone &
the Nu-Ports
The next issue of Echoes of the Past
magazine, due out in June, will feature our latest article, "Feel
Like A Million: The Story of Tyrone & the Nu-Ports." It's
based on Charlie's 1980 in-depth interviews Nu-Ports' members Tyrone
Johnson and Calvin Henderson. This will be the first time the
career of this great South Jersey vocal group has ever been written
about. We've updated the story through conversations with
South Philly native, Marc Tanno, whom the Nu-Ports backed on record.
This issue will also feature great articles by Bob Bosco, George
Frunzi and others. Echoes... is the only current
magazine completely devoted to 1950's and early 1960's vocal groups.
It is available from Echoes of the Past, P.O. Box 40,
Agawam, MA 01001-0040. Subscription rates in U.S. are $16.99 for
1-Year (4 Issues).
Updated
Version of Charlie & Pam's Article on Calvaes,
Blenders & Accents now posted on this Website!
Our article "South Side Harmony in
the Windy City: The Calvaes, Blenders & Accents Stories," has
now been updated to include the events of March 2009 and is now
posted on this website. Click
Windy City Harmony to read about
the Calvaes, Blenders and Accents.
On March 6, 2009, Classic Urban Harmony headed to Chicago to
join our friends from the U.K. and elsewhere at the latest SoulTrip USA
event. There, we also met dozens of Chicago soul singers (not to
mention a few doo wop singers), attended a live concert and heard hours of
great "Northern Soul" music. We even found time to visit Chess
Records and look for the former home of Vee Jay Records. To
read our review and see scores of great photos, click
Chicago SoulTrip
USA.
Classic Urban Harmony
Returns to Franklin Township Public Library for Doo Wop Presentation
Part Two!!!
MAY 5, 2009 -
SAVE THE DATE. If you've enjoyed one of our previous
presentations, you'll love "Part Two".
Classic Urban Harmony will return to Franklin Township Public
Library on May 5 to present it's multimedia presentation, “The
Evolution of Doo Wop Music - Part Two” on Tuesday evening, May 5, 2009,
from 7 – 9 PM. The Franklin Township Public
Library is located in the Somerset County Municipal Building Complex
at 485 DeMott Lane (near Amwell Rd.) in Somerset, NJ. See
http://www.franklintwp.org
for directions.
The presentation will again be FREE and opened to the public but
pre-registration will again be required. We'll
let you know when sign-up is available. Revisit this site
often, as the last talk at this library filled up quickly. Be
sure to arrive a few minutes early as we'll have a completely new
music display in the case near the circulation desk.
Two New
Unknown Vocal Groups Added!!!!!
We've just added two new Unknown Vocal Group photos to our
Unknown Vocal Group Page courtesy P. J. Noce
and Pete Wilgus. P.J.'s photo of of a 1960's group from northern New
Jersey called the U-Phonics while Pete sends us a 1950's vocal group from
Cleveland. We need your help in identifying the groups in these
photos.
Check them out on our
Unknown Vocal Group Page.
Charlie Horner Guest Appearance on the J. P. Godsey
Radio Program Now Archived on the Internet
For those of you who missed Charlie's guest appearance on the
February 11, 2009 "J. P. Godsey Show," it has now been archived on J. P.'s
website. The show
was first broadcast on WPMH 670 AM in the Virginia Beach, VA area
and also streamed live on the Internet. J. P. is very
knowledgeable about popular music and he and Charlie had a good time talking
about vocal groups from the Mills Brothers to Little Anthony & the
Imperials. To listen to that week's show, including Charlie and two
other guests, click
Here.
Echoes
of the Past Magazine now out with Charlie & Pam's Article on Calvaes,
Blenders & Accents
The latest issue of Echoes of the Past
magazine is now out. It features our latest
research in the form of a ten page article, "South Side Harmony in
the Windy City: The Calvaes, Blenders & Accents Stories." Our
in depth interviews of James "Zeke" Brown and Curtis Campbell
provide unique insight into the Chicago harmony scene of the fifties
and sixties. The magazine also features Bob Bosco's article on
the Troopers from Philadelphia and George Frunzi's article on
Delaware's contribution to the development of the phonograph plus
more. The magazine is available from Echoes of the Past, P.O. Box 40,
Agawam, MA 01001-0040. Subscription rates in U.S. are $16.99 for
1-Year (4 Issues).
Classic
Urban Harmony's Charlie Horner Interviews Deborah Chessler at Rock & Roll
Hall of Fame
Charlie
& Pam Horner traveled to the Rock & Roll Hall of
Fame and Museum in Cleveland on February 9, 2009, to
interview Deborah Chessler, songwriter and creative force behind the
legendary vocal quintet, the Orioles. In the late 1940's,
Deborah's songs helped shape a new style of music that would become
known as Rhythm & Blues vocal harmony. The interview took
place in front of a live audience at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in
Cleveland and was followed by a question
and answer period with the audience.
Click on
Interview with Deborah Chessler for Pam's review of
the event and many photos!!!
Unknown Vocal Group #4 Identified!!!!!
Congratulations to P. J. Noce for identifying the photo of
Unknown Vocal Group #004!!!! P. J. joins Bill Proctor and Pete Finn in a select circle of music
historians who have now identified three of our six unknown group photos.
Check out our
Unknown Vocal Group Page to find out the identity of Group #004.
Silhouettes' John Wilson Visits Classic Urban
Harmony
Silhouettes Day at Classic Urban Harmony World Headquarters
featured a visit from the last surviving member of the Silhouettes, John
Wilson, along with Elaine and Shana Lewis, wife and daughter of original
Silhouettes' tenor Rick Lewis. John Wilson led the group on songs like
"Rent Man" and "Not Me Baby". See the photos at
John Wilson
Visits CUH.
Classic Urban Harmony Guest
Appearance on "J. P. Godsey Show"
Classic Urban Harmony would like to thank our good friend J.
P. Godsey for having Charlie as a guest on his talk radio show, February 11.
"The J. P. Godsey Show"
was broadcast on WPMH 670 AM in the Virginia Beach, VA area
and also streamed live on the Internet. J. P. is very
knowledgeable about popular music and he and Charlie had a good time talking
about vocal groups from the Mills Brothers to Little Anthony & the
Imperials. J. P. told us the broadcast will be archived shortly.
Visit J. P.'s website,
http://www.mrhappyusa.com/
The Photo Gallery of Our Musical Family
We've added ten new photos to the top of the
Photo Gallery of
Our Musical Family!
[OK, so we've left the two photos of us first.
But after that, the next ten are new.] We'll be adding even more soon.
Visit
our New Calendar Page
to Find Our Latest Activities Plus Other Group Harmony Happenings!!!!
Our activities
have expanded and so has our website. Now you can visit one page and
see what we're up to. Find info and timing on our Group Harmony and
Doo Wop Presentations, our Radio Appearances, our Articles and everything
else we do. We'll also tell you about some other events you might be
interested in. Click on
Calendar.
SAVE THE DATES: April 2 and June 19, 2009. We'll be
giving a presentations for the Bridgewater NJ Public Library and the Meadows
Foundation in Central New Jersey. Details on our
Our Events Calendar Page.
New Unknown Vocal Group
(#006)
Yes, we've added another photo of an unknown group (#006) for
you to help identify! This one comes from our friend Val Shively, who
tells us he believes the group is from Philadelphia or Camden, NJ.
Could be a fifties or early sixties group. Please click on our
Unknown Groups
Page to see if you recognize them. And while you're on that
page, we still haven't identified groups #003 - 005.
Classic
Urban Harmony to Participate in Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Project
The Rock & Roll Hall of
Fame and Museum in Cleveland has selected Classic Urban Harmony’s
Charlie Horner to participate in a special live program.
On Monday, February 9, 2009, Charlie and Pamela Horner will fly to
Cleveland where Charlie will conduct an interview with Deborah
Chessler, songwriter and creative force behind the legendary vocal
quintet, the Orioles. In the late 1940's, Deborah's songs
helped shape a new style of music that would become known as Rhythm
& Blues vocal harmony. The interview will take place in front
of a live audience, from 7-9 PM, in the 4th Floor Theater of the
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. It will be followed by a question
and answer period with the audience.
The program is opened to the public but those interested must email
edu@rockhall.org or call
216-515-8426 to RSVP. See the Events Page of the
R&R
Hall of Fame Website for more details.
In the late 1940’s and early 1950’s, Deborah Chessler was the
songwriter and manager of Sonny Til & the Orioles, the first true
Rhythm & Blues vocal group. It was Deborah’s song (“It’s Too Soon
To Know”) that changed the face of American music and led to the
development of Rhythm & Blues, Doo Wop and Rock & Roll. A 1993
Rolling Stone magazine article called her the “Woman Who
Invented Rock & Roll.”
Deborah Chessler is a close friend of Charlie & Pam’s who someday
hope to complete a book about her and the Orioles. Deborah
Chessler’s story has a prominent part in our Classic Urban Harmony
presentations.
Doo
Wop Thrives in New Jersey at the Doo Wop Group Harmony Club
Read Pam's article and see photos of the (Central New Jersey)
Doo Wop Group Harmony
Club, an organization where singers can get together once a month and
blend their voices in harmony.
New Years Eve 2008 with Nicky Addeo & the Nite
Owls
Asbury Park's Nicky Addeo is one of the great voices of our
time. Read Pam's review and see photos of Nicky Addeo and the Nite
Owls Band as Charlie & Pam ring in the New Year with them at Mister C's
Beach Bistro in Allenhurst, NJ. Click
Nicky Addeo. Just added, some label photos, including a red wax
copy of the Darchaes' Nobell record!
Now Posted on this Website
- "Doo Wop and Soul in the Birthplace of FunK: The Story of Sammy &
the Del Larks"
Reprinted from the December 2008 issue of Echoes of the
Past magazine, we've added to this website our article about Plainfield,
NJ's Del Larks. Learn about the 1950's group harmony scene in central
Jersey with the Del Larks and Parliaments before the birth of Funk music.
Read about the group that recorded doo wop classics like "Remember The
Night," "Lady Love" and "I Never Will Forget". Discover the story
behind the Northern Soul masterpiece "Job Opening." Follow the career
of Little Sammy Campbell as he's transformed into soul singer Tyrone Ashley.
To enhance your visual journey, we've added some color photographs that we
couldn't squeeze into the printed version! Click
Del Larks to have a look.
Be sure to subscribe to Echoes of the Past.
We'll have another great article in the March 2009 issue, this time about
Chicago's Calvaes, Blenders and Accents. The
magazine is available from Echoes of the Past, P.O. Box 40,
Agawam, MA 01001-0040. Subscription rates in U.S. are $16.99 for
1-Year (4 Issues).
New Unknown Vocal Group Added to Classic Urban
Harmony Website
Due to the phenomenal success this site has had in
identifying photos of unknown vocal groups, we've added one more.
Study this one well and email us immediately if you recognize the group.
History may pass this group by unless one of you can tell us their identity.
Please help! Click
Unknown
Group #004 to have a look.
Black Swan 2008 Burlington Concert DVD's to be
released in late February. Advanced sale price extended until February 1,
2009.
For those who missed the 2008 Black Swan Burlington Concert
and for those who want to live it over again, Mark del Costello informs us
the release date for the DVD's has been pushed back until the end of
February. The advanced sale offer for the DVD's has been extended
until February 1.
Visit Black Swan's newly revised website from our
Links page.
Holiday Harmony - The Story of the Orioles' "Lonely
Christmas"
In a new feature, Classic Urban Harmony spotlights a
legendary "sound of the season," the Orioles' "(It's Gonna Be A) Lonely
Christmas." Click
Here
to read about it.
Modern Era Doo Wop Groups - Younger Dayz
Classic Urban Harmony is glad to add a new section to our
website profiles - Modern Era Doo Wop harmony. This section will cover doo
wop groups from the 1970's through the present. We are pleased to
feature the first of these profiled groups, Younger Dayz from Long Island,
NY. The profile was assembled from info supplied by the group's own Joe Mirrione,
who also gave us some great photos. Visit our profile on
Younger Dayz.
At long
last... UNKNOWN VOCAL GROUP #1 IDENTIFIED!!!!!!!
After years of searching for for their identity, the unknown
vocal group whose photo graces our Classic Urban Harmony logo has been
identified! Our sincere thanks to researcher and vocal harmony
historian extraordinaire Pete Finn who wouldn't rest until he solved one of
the great mysteries of our time. Click
HERE to learn the identity of the
unknown 1956 Philadelphia singing group that inspired this website.
December 6, 2008! Classic Urban Harmony
contributes the "Record of the Week" to The Vocal Group
Harmony Web Site.
Actually the Record Of The Week on December 6 is two records - both
records by the Four Deep Tones on the Coral label from 1951. Listen
to both records, see a photo of the group and read about the history of the
records and the group. If you haven't visited this fabulous site
dedicated to the R&B vocal groups of the 1930's, 1940's and early 1950's,
you can do so by clicking
www.VocalGroupHarmony.com. Use your Back Button to return to our
Classic Urban Harmony site.
In our first four months in existence, our site,
www.ClassicUrbanHarmony.net
has surpassed 5000 visitors! OK, so a couple of you have visited our
site more than once, but it's still a nice accomplishment for a new site.
Our sincere gratitude to all of you. Keep coming back and tell your
friends to visit us.
NOW IN PRINT!!! Our article
on the Del Larks in Echoes of the Past magazine!
It's completed and heading to the presses! Read our article about Plainfield NJ's Del Larks ("Lady
Love," "Remember The Night," "I Never Will Forget") along with Bob Bosco's
article on Philadelphia's Destinations and much more in Echoes of the Past
magazine, December 2008 issue.
Available by subscription from Echoes of the Past, P.O. Box 40,
Agawam, MA 01001-0040. Subscription rates in U.S. are $16.99 for
1-Year (4 Issues).
Claude Robinson & Creations
Profiled
Classic Urban Harmony unearths a rare grainy photo and for
the first time profiles this great but short-careered Cleveland doo wop
group that recorded for the Studio and Patty Jo labels.
Click on
Claude Robinson &
Creations.
Classic Urban Harmony makes
an appearance on George Frunzi's "Down On The Street Corner Show" on
Internet's Goldradio
Charlie & Pamela Horner traveled to the state of Delaware on
November 9, 2008, where Charlie played two hours of rare group harmony
records on George Frunzi's "Down on the Street Corner Show" on the
Internet's Goldradio. Two of the sides played were unreleased acetates
by the Unknown Vocal Group that we have on our logo (see
Unknown Vocal Group photo).
Scores of vocal group experts were listening, but as yet, the group remains
unidentified. [See Elaine Wade's review of the show on our
Mailbox page.]
Charlie & George Frunzi on Goldradio
(Photo by Pam Horner)
Charlie & Pam on Goldradio
(Photo by Sandy Frunzi)
Congratulations to our good friend, Willie C, for
winning not one but TWO awards at this year's Carolina Beach Music
Association awards ceremony.
Willie C. won not only the award for Internet Radio Show of
the Year (for his Beach Music Cafe) but also took the Michael Branch Award!
This is the second year in a row Willie was an award winner. To catch
his Beach Music Cafe, visit his site from our
LINKS page.
Classic Urban Harmony 2008 European Road Trip -
Concert Reviews & Photos of the Golden Gate Quartet & Deep River Quartet
Classic Urban Harmony travels to Holland, France and Spain in
search of great vocal harmony. Read reviews and view great photos of
the Deep River Quartet and the Golden Gate Quartet. Join us from your
computer screens as we travel with the groups, watch the sound checks,
experience the concerts and party with the groups backstage afterwards.
As a special service to our website visitors - we travel the world so you
don't have to! Click
2008
European Road Trip.
The 2008 Black Swan
Burlington Concert - Review & Photos - New Photos
Added!!!!!
Read Pam's detailed review and see close to a hundred photos
from the 2008 Black Swan Burlington Concert. Classic Urban Harmony LLC
covered this historic stage show from rehearsals to the closing act.
If you attended this concert you'll not only relive this 7-hour show, you'll
learn what went on behind the scenes as the event unfolded. If you
missed this happening, you'll see what you missed. See photos of Terry
Johnson's Flamingos, the Kool
Gents, the Solitaires, the Academics, the Bay Bops, the Calvaes, the Charades,
the Continentals, the Dreams/Castelles, the Columbus Pharaohs, the Four Deuces, Johnny Carbone's Group,
the Sheppards,
the Sparrows Quartette, the Wrens, the Rocketones, the Paradons, Lillian
Leach & the Mellows, Dino & the Heartspinners and more. Click 2008
Black Swan Concert.
[Special thanks to Bobby Diskin, Mike Bauer and Bob Bosco for some recent
additions and Ron Taylor for newly added photos.]
The Silhouettes
Read the complete story of the Silhouettes whose song "Get A
Job" was one of the biggest vocal harmony songs of all time. Here's
Part 1, written by Charlie in 1980 and now updated with numerous photos.
Just added is Part 2, Charlie's memories of the Silhouettes' second career
beginning in 1979. We have a comprehensive discography with label
scans and plenty of group photos supplied by Elaine Lewis, wife of the
group's first tenor, Rick Lewis. Click
Here to
see.
2008 Charleston Beach Music & Shag Festival
Read Pam's review and see dozens of photos from the 2008
Charleston Beach Music Festival, featuring the Tams, Maurice Williams & the
Zodiacs, Billy Scott & the Party Prophet Band, Wallstreet, Angel Rissoff and
the Fabulous Shades. Click
Here to see.
First Annual (2006) Philly
Doo Wop Festival
So many of you enjoyed the review and photo gallery we posted
of this year's Philly Doo Wop Festival, we decided to dig out and post what
we had from the original, First Annual Philly Doo Wop Festival in 2006.
Click Here to see.
The Dinwiddie Quartet
Read about the Philadelphia-based quartet that became the first black vocal
group to make a record, in 1902. See the record in our archives and
our recently discovered photo of the lead singer, Sterling Rex. Click
on Dinwiddie Quartet under Profiles In
Harmony.
Richard Barrett's Musical
Legacy - Part 7
Read our final article in the
Richard Barrett Series (Part 7), just out in the September 2008 issue of
Echoes of the Past. It covers Richard's return to Philadelphia, his
work with Swan Records and his work with the Showmen, the Three
Degrees and many more groups. See "Coming Soon" (below) to subscribe
to Echoes of the Past.
The Five Embers
Read Dr. Phil Swartz's excellent article about Owensboro,
Kentucky's only recording R&B vocal group and see photos of the group and
their extremely rare record, "My Fragile Heart". Click on
The 5 Embers under Profiles In Harmony.
Concert Reviews and Photos -
Our newest Section featuring reviews and photos of great harmony events!
Read Pam's review and see photos from the recent concert by
the Mills Brothers (John Mills & Elmer Hopper) and Ink Spots (Sonny Hatchett,
Herman Denby, Harold Winley & Morris Dow).
Read Pam's
review and see photos from the outdoor riverfront festival
featuring the Skyliners, Continentals, Billy Carlucci of
Billy & Essentials,
Billy Harner, Cornerstone, Reunion, Street Corner Five, Now & Then, and the
Norristones.
Philadelphia Area Doo Wop &
Acappella Groups
Pam's definitive list of 1950's R&B, Doo Wop and Acappella
groups from the Greater Philadelphia area. Originally compiled as a
program for the 2006 Philadelphia Doo Wop Festival, this list has been revised
and updated in 2008. Click
Philly Doo Wop & Acappella Groups.
Unknown Vocal Groups
We know very little about these groups. Please go
to our Unknown Vocal Group Page
and help us identify the photos you see.
News: Unknown Vocal Group #002 is
Identified!!!! See
Unknown Vocal Group Page
for details.
Reaction to our Presentations and Website
Reaction to our website has been phenomenal with over
800 hits in the first week. Read what some of our other visitors
have to say on our Mailbox Page.
Email us your own comments.
Classic Urban Harmony LLC
Establishes Internet Presence
We proudly present our new
website.
www.ClassicUrbanHarmony.net
will not only give the latest news of our presentations but we hope it will
also grow to serve as a valued source of information on the history of our
music. Please be sure to visit our archives to read some interesting
stories about vocal groups as well as to view some of our many photos and
memorabilia.
We are constantly adding new group profiles to the
site (we've started with the "A" groups) so visit us often!
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