Acapella Doo Wop

Persuasions : A Cappella Soul

Review: We first time were blown away by the Persuasions at Hill Auditorium in Michigan in 1971, in an era when when rock bands like the Doors would roar into town with their huge amps, guitars and synthesizers, and Motown legends like Gladys Knight and the Pips would make the short trip down from the Motor City to show us how it was done. The Persuasions opened for soulful Gladys, and the audience, there to hear her sing her hit "Heard It Through the Grapevine," wasn't expecting much. Holding just microphones, the Persuasions put on a soul clinic, and left to an astonished, appreciative standing ovation! The second time was at the West Coast A Cappella Summit 5 or 6 years ago where we got to go backstage and talk to Jerry, Jimmy, Jayotis, Joe and Toubo after a sublime set. "A Cappella Soul" is on Best of Rounder Records' "Perfect 10 Series," and it's aptly labeled. The ten are "All I Have to Do Is Dream," "Let Them Talk," "That's Heaven to Me," "Can't Do Sixty No More," "I Woke Up This Morning," the spiritual "Ain't That Good News," the Doo-Wop hit "Crying in the Chapel," "I'll Come Running Back to You," Elvis's "Return to Sender" and "Let's Get Married/Sincerely." Every one of these is marvelous. Treat yourself to "A Cappella Soul," a banquet from the legendary, pioneering Persuasions, still up there with mikes, doing their thing cool as you please, showing us mortals how it's done!

Songlist: All I Have To Do Is Dream, Let Them Talk, That's Heaven To Me, Can't Do Sixty No More, I Woke Up This Morning, Ain't That Good News, Crying in the Chapel, I'll Come Running Back To You, Return to Sender, Let's Get Married / Sincerely

Persuasions : Acappella

Review: Here's one of the group's earliest recordings which was originally released in 1969 and has now been digitally remastered and rereleased. The guys were young and their voices were strong and their enthusiasm is catching making this a truly authentic recording that catches the essence of the era perfectly. A must for all collectors.

Songlist: Searchin' For My Baby, I Just Can't Work No Longer, Old Man River, Monologue Introduction, Don't Look Back, Drip Drop, The Whole World Is A Stage, Up On The Roof, The Bounce, Since I Fell For You, Too Late, It's All Right

Persuasions : Comin' At Ya

Review: Comin' At Ya is from from the very heart of The Persuasions singing career. It was by this time that they had introduced so many people to the world of a cappella music that they were becoming recognized as the definitive group in the field, period. Their street corner style had created a sound of such individuality that it is very seldom that another group can cover a Persuasions tune and not suffer by comparison. The blues, R&B and touches of doo-wop that were combined to create street corner singing are all present. "Just Because" is a blues of lost love. "I'll Be Forever Loving You" is an archetypical doo-wop. "Don't Let Him Take Your Love" covers the R&B and because of Jerry Lawson's fabulous shout-lead will never again be covered and sound quite right. They ought to retire that tune and hang it on the wall of some hall of fame.

Songlist: Return To Sender, Don't Let Him Take Your Love, Besame Mucho, One Mint Julep, Let Them Talk, Mortal Man, I'll Be Forever Loving You, Just Because, Drip Drop, Crying In The Chapel, Loves Me Like A Rock

Persuasions : Stardust

Review: Over the years we have enjoyed the Persuasions' tributes to Frank Zappa, who gave them a break getting into the music business, the Beatles and the Grateful Dead. We saw them blow away the audience at the A Cappella Summit. But "Stardust" was recorded at two tiny studios in New Jersey in 1969, and not released until a full decade later. We hear (and see, in some vintage photos and a poster) the five Persuasions when they were just starting out building their huge legion of fans. Twelve songs, like "The Vow," "Swanee," "A Thousand Miles Away," "The Sun," "Ebb Tide," "I Won't Be the Fool Anymore," "Old Man River," "Rev's Medley" and "Gypsy Woman." Sweet, soulful, pioneering a cappella Doo Wop, straight from the source!

Songlist: Stardust, The Vow, Swanee, A Thousand Miles Away, The Sun, Don't Let Him Take Your Love From Me, EBB Tide, I Won't Be The Fool Anymore, Man O Man, Old Man River, Rev's Medley, Gypsy Woman

Persuasions : You're All I Want For Christmas

Review: It's amazing that the godfathers of contemporary a cappella have recorded for 30 years without previously singing a holiday album. But here it is, 14 songs performed as only the Persuasions can. The recording opens with a rollicking rendition of the title tune You're All I Want For Christmas, and includes a mix of traditional songs ("Silent Night," "Joy To The World") with contemporary tunes (doo-woppy "Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer," "Merry Christmas Baby").

Songlist: You're All I Want for Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, The Jesus Song, This Time of Year, Do You Hear What I Hear, Silent Night, What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?, The Christmas Song, White Christmas, Hey, Santa Claus, Merry Christmas, Baby, Christmas Means Love, Joy to the World

Pure Gold : The A Cappella Album

Review: This is the 3rd appearance of Pure Gold on the Collectables label. Pure Gold is Susan DeLuca, Ron Crawley, Frank Czuri, Robert Peckman and the deep bass of Sidney Hill, with the legendary Jimmy Beaumont of the Skyliners singing the lead on 'You're Gonna Cry' and 'Without You.' In addition to those two, some of our favorites: 'Little Girl of Mine,' 'Every Day of the Week,' 'Our Day Will Come,' 'Love Potion Number 9,' 'Every Beat of My Heart' and 'Lover Boy.' Sweet roots Doo-Wop, with a sound that's Pure Gold!

Songlist: Little Girl of Mine, Can't Help Loving that Girl of Mine, You're Gonna Cry, Tell Him, Vowels of Love, I Want a Chance, Every Day of the Week, Why do You Have to Go, Kiss and Make Up, Without You, Our Day Will Come, Love Potion Number Nine, Every Beat of my Heart, Lover Boy, Sayonara

Pure Gold, Reunion, DC Finest : Acappella Christmas

Review: Join three of the most entertaining doo-wop groups performing today for a jubilant holiday sing-along, street corner style! Carols sung with soul and verve - a refreshing change from the traditional. Enjoy Reunion's version of The Shells' 'Happy Holiday, ' or 'You're My Christmas Present,' as originally sung by The Skyliners and now performed by Pure Gold. D.C.'s Finest (an acappella group comprised of current and former police officers) sings 'Twas The Night Before Christmas/Silent Night' with shall we say, all the 'conviction' they can muster. A CD overflowing with good cheer.

Songlist: Twas The Night Before Christmas/ Silent Night, Your My Christmas Present, It's The Time, I'll Be Home For Christmas, Happy Holiday, Merry, Merry Christmas Baby, White Christmas, Merry Christmas Baby, Christmas Song, Christmas In Jail, Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer, Children Go Where I Send Thee

Regency : Regency

Review: Five guys came out of the Somerset Housing Projects in Baltimore who sang anywhere and everywhere-at the Jack in the Box they were known as the Box Boys. That name changed to Regency, and with many collegiate music awards and some personnel changes later, the group tours over 300 universities and colleges a year. At 1 pm on June 27, 1994, Regency went into the recording studio to eat Philly steaks and fries, and to sing and sing some more. At 10 pm they had finished an incredible recording session, 21 songs completed a cappella without overdubs or studio trickery. Some favorites are a pair of Presley covers, "Jailhouse Rock" and "Hound Dog," Chuck Berry's "Johnny B. Goode," Little Richard's "Tutti Frutti," The Righteous Bros' "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling," Sam Cooke's "Only Sixteen," James Brown's "I Got You," The Young Rascals' "Good Lovin'," "The Most Beautiful Girl In the World," the Isley Bros' "Shout," and "Day-O" (Banana Boat Song). This is the authentic street corner Doo Wop, with a bunch of guys who know each other as absolutely as they know the songs. This CD is a remarkable achievement and a real treat!

Songlist: Jailhouse Rock, Hound Dog, Johnny B Goode, I'm Ready, Tutti Frutti, Don't Play That Song, You've Last That Lovin' Feeling, Can't Help Falling In Love With You, Higher And Higher, Only Sixteen, Baby Watcha Want Me To Do/ Bright Lights Big City Medley, I Got You (I Feel Good), Summertime, Good Lovin', Let's Get It On, The Most Beautiful Girl In The World, It's So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday, Lady Soul, Sadie, Shout, Day-O (Banana Boat Song)

Reunion : So Much In Love

Review: Reunion is a solid East Coast a cappella doo-wop group who have now recorded their second record on Collectables Records. This one is different. They have a guest artist joining them. Willie Winfield is the legendary singer of the Harptones who enjoyed an illustrious recording and stage career in the fifties and sixties, and still are in demand on the oldies circuit. When Willie joins the members of Reunion a true singing spirit of the street corner is invoked. He sings lead on five of the eighteen tunes, 'On Sunday Afternoon,' 'My Memories Of You,' 'A Sunday Kind Of Love,' 'I Almost Lost My Mind' and 'That's The Way It Goes.' Let Willie Winfield and Reunion transport you back to that New Jersey street corner of yesteryear.

Songlist: So Much In Love, Island Of Love, On Sunday Afternoon, Here I Am Broken Hearted, Let It Please Be You, My Memories Of You, Old Man River, You Can Have Her, A Sunday Kind of Love, Diamonds & Pearls, Don't Let Go, I Almost Lost My Mind, Pledging My Love, Let Me Come Back, That's The Way It Goes, Don't Look Back, One Summer Night, Keeping The Faith

Reunion : Street Corner Singers

Review: Three-time UGHA winners Reunion - no other group has had that distinction - have been singing together in various incarnations since the 1960's. They also competed in and won the 'Acappella Showdown' in 1990 and 1991. This experience has resulted in a smooth fluid sound and crisp delivery; they avoid harshness. Their strong suit is the roundness and fullness of their tone. Their set list comprises the contemporary - Otis Redding's 'Drift Away' or Van Morrison's 'Brown Eyed Girl' - and the classic: the plaintive 'I Believe' and uptempo 'Where Are You Tonight?'

Songlist: Where Are You Tonight?, Wonderful Tonight, Lean On Me, I Believe, Heart of Saturday Night, At This Moment, Cool Change, That's My Desire, Drift Away, What's Your Name?, Brown Eyed Girl, Tears In Heaven, The Boys Are Back In Town, The Sun, Bring Me Li'l Water Silvy, It's Growing, Buffalo Soldier, Lookin' For An Echo

Rock n' Rhythm : Havin' A Party

Review: Rock N' Rhythm is Dennis Testa, an original member of Ray and the Darchaes who recorded 'Little Girl So Fine' in 1962, First Tenor and Lead, Steve Siciliano, an original member of the Del-Rays, Second Tenor and Lead, Charlene Siciliano, First Tenor and Lead, Tony Vodola, Baritone, and Bill Wainwright, an original member of The Progressions, Bass. 18 songs, all a cappella brought to us by Starlight Discs. Some of our favorites: 'Mickey's Monkey,' 'Havin' A Party,' 'The Loco-motion,' Dylan's 'Don't Think Twice,' 'Operator' and Clapton's 'Wonderful Tonight.' Sounds like our kind of party!

Songlist: Havin' A Party, Mickey's Monkey, The Loco-motion, Six Nights A Week, Babalu's Wedding Day, The Angels Listened In, Could This Be Magic, It's Alright, Don't Think Twice, Operator, The River of Dreams, My Own True LoveBring Back Your Heart, You Belong to Me, You Can Depend on Me, Drift Away, Wonderful Tonight, Best of My Love

Sentinels : Acappella Memories - Connecticut Style

Review: Acknowledged as Connecticut's premier a cappella Doo Wop Group, the 5-man Sentinels have performed with classic groups like the Jive Five, Platters, Coasters, Capris, Del Vikings, Dubs, Chantels, Emotions, Solitaires, Harptones and many others. The group delivers the rich, robust sounds of authentic street corner Doo Wop that rings true to the era with a helping of their own universally-appealing style. 19 songs, some favorites are the lively "Hey Senorita," "I Thank the Moon," "Oh Gee, Oh Gosh," "Tonight Could Be the Night," nice covers of "Book of Love," "When You Dance" and "Remember Then," "Babalu's Wedding Day" and bonus track "White Christmas." Smooth, sweet sounds from the talented, veteran Sentinels!

Songlist: Can't We Be Sweethearts, Lorraine, Hey Senorita, I Thank the Moon, White Cliffs of Dover, It Happened Today, To Be Loved, Oh Gee Oh Gosh, Please Let Me Love You, Tonight Could Be the Night, Zu Zu, Book of Love, Never Never, When You Dance, Babalu's Wedding Day, Now That You've Gone, Remember Then, Goodnight, White Christmas

Sheps : It Was Destiny

Review: Presented as "a tribute to the Authentic Roots, 1950's RnB Groups, "Destiny" is several cuts above your average Doo-Wop CD. First, the material concentrates on that of mid-50's groups, primarily those from Chicago and New York. Songs like the Pipes' "Be Fair," The Velours' "Romeo," The Crows' "Baby Doll," "Call A Doctor" and "I Love You So," The Orchids' "Newly Wed" and The Diablos' "The Wind"- these songs are the real thing, and take us back to the years when streetcorner Doo-Wop was a ticket for some very talented singers and songwriters into recording studios and onto the radio and tv. Clean, sweet, in-tune leads by 5 guys who have paid their dues, and the arrangements (by Tommie Shider), don't take the easy path of many groups. There's 23 songs, including two nice originals, the title tune and "UGHA." A couple of songs are accompanied, but trust us, "Destiny" is a treat by a group that takes care of business!

Songlist: Be Fair, Romeo, Baby Doll, It Wasn't A Lie, You're Mine, Gloria (The Girl for Me), Castle in the Sky, PS I Love You, It Was Destiny, Tell Me Why, She Was A Battle Axe, I Love You So, All I Want, Call A Doctor, Newly Wed, The Verdict, I Know, Starting from Tonight, Fool's Prayers, The Wind, UGHA, How Would You Know, The Beat of Our Hearts

Showvinistics : Heart Of Saturday Night

Review: East Coast doo-wop group, whose five members ably perform oldies from a variety of styles - the common denominator of which is that they are all great American music! R & B influenced vocal harmony groups ('Drifter's Medley') and first-generation rockers, a la Buddy Holly ('Maybe Baby'), both contributed to the doo-wop sound of the fifties and early sixties. In turn, those trends evolved into Motown ('Lonely Teardrops'), and the Brill Building pop of Neil Sedaka ('Rainy Day Bells'). The Showvinistics' arrangements of songs from each of these eras retain the integrity of the style, while adding subtle impact with their solid and confident vocals. Four tracks are accompanied.

Songlist: The Heart Of Saturday Night, Morse Code Of Love, Don't Ask Me To Be Lonely, Oh What A Night, Rainy Day Bells, Countdown to Love, Lonely Teardrops, Maybe Baby, Blue Moon, Drifter's Medley, Here I Am Broken Hearted, Tears On My Pillow, A White Sport Coat / Young Love, Star Spangled Banner

Special Delivery : Be Anything But Me Mine

Review: Special Delivery is 8 hard-working guys from New Jersey who had their musical epiphany one night performing 'It's Too Soon To Know.' The ovation that followed was repeated when they offered 'older classics' to subsequent audiences. 'Be Anything...' is a tribute to the pioneer artists of R & B, and the group's love of the music is loud and clear. Standouts among the 17 choice cuts: The Ink Spots' 'Flowers, Mr. Florist, Please,' The Platters' 'Only You,' The Flamingos' 'My Lovely One,' and the title cut, by the Five Keys.

Songlist: It's Too Soon To Know (E. Hessler), Night's Curtains (Williams / Blackshear), Learning The Blues ( Silvers), Flowers, Mr. Florist Please (Powell), Since I Fell For You (Johnson), Golden Teardrops (Carter), Lovey Dovey ( Curtis / Ertegon), Be Anything But Be Mine (Gordon), Hands Across The Table (Parish / Delettre), Only You (Ram / Rand), I'd Be SAtisfied (Ward / Marks), My Lovely One (Johnson), Here In My Lonely Room (Weismantel), Until The Real Thing Comes Along (Cahn / Chaplin), On The Street Where You Live (Lerner / Lowe), Danny Boy (Weatherly), Your Promise To Be Mine (Oliver)

Stormy Weather : Doo Wop Yule Pop

Review: Subtitled 'a Christmas collection for kids,' 'Doo Wop Yule Pop' is just plain fun at any age. Contemporary doo-wop mixed quintet Stormy Weather are from Gary, Indiana, and their versions of 'Jingle Bells,' 'A Yule Tide Aire,' 'Rudolph The Rednosed Reindeer' and so many more (15 in all), are musically solid and amazingly creative. 'Hardrock, Coco and Joe' and 'Suzy Snowflake' are definitely directed at the little curtain climbers, who will be enthralled. 'Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree' is anchored by a nimble vocal bass performance (bass takes the lead for two verses on 'White Christmas'). 'All I Want For Christmas' is reggaeized; 'Hey Santa Claus,' written by the Moonglows' Harvey Fuqua, (accompanied) swings hard. Last cut: 'Lady Millenium,' which will get you in the mood for New Year's Eve!

Songlist: Hardrock, Coco & Joe, Suzy Snowflake, Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer, Jingle Bell Rock, Christmas Round, White Christmas, A Yule Tide Aire, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, All I Want For Christmas, Doo Wop Yule Pop, Little Drummer Boy/ Do You Hear What I Hear, Little Red Shoes, Jingle Bells, Hey Santa Claus, Lady Millennium

Stormy Weather : Street Carols

Review: Featuring a guest line-up that makes us want to crash the backstage hospitality area to say hello, the Gary, Indiana based Stormy Weather turn the mikes over to the likes of Ronnie Spector ('Creation Of Love'), The Spaniels ('Santa's Lullabye,' 'Peace Of Mind') and the Chi-Lites ('It's The Time'). 'Little Red Shoes,' adds a tasty acoustic guitar part to the lead vocal by Rock 'n Roll Hall-Of-Famer Jerry Butler, and he sings it from the gut and the heart, that's for sure. Stormy Weather gets their turn, too, with 'You're My Christmas Present,' 'Jingle Bell Rock,' and others, but clearly, they enjoy sharing the credit with their talented associates.

Songlist: A Street Carol, Jingle Bell Rock, Little Red Shoes, Last Month of the Year, Christmas Round, Santa's Lullabye, You're My Christmas Present, Creation of Love, It's the Time, Peace of Mind, Merry Christmas Baby, The Bells of St. Mary, Suite for a Late December, Jingle Bells, Joy to the World, We Three Kings, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Street Corner Serenade : Acappella

Review: The 5-man Starlight Serenade is one of Boston's finest vocal groups, and they really deliver the goods on this CD. We've always felt that the key to great male doo-wop is a solid, heavy baritone-bass anchor (the whole genre being named after nonsense words usually sung by those yummy deep voices) and Baritone Jack Mento and Bass David Jackvony are two of the best we've heard. There are 16 classic songs here, some of our favorites: 'Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye,' 'Little Darlin',' 'My True Story,' 'When I Come Home,' 'Blue Moon,' 'Little Girl of Mine,' 'Walking Along,' and the title tune, but it's hard to choose, as it's all good stuff. Rich-harmonied, deep-voiced doo-wop is like hot fudge on a hand-cranked vanilla ice cream sundae - the more the better!

Songlist: Till Then, I Really Love You, Beginning To Love You, Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye, Mister Lonely, Little Darlin', My True Story, Street Corner Serenade, Hey Senorita, When I Come Home, Don't Ask Me To Be Lonely, Blue Moon, Streets Of The Bronx, Little Girl Of Mine, The Girl I Love, Walking Along

Swallows : Very Best of

Review: Well researched and compiled selection of classics tracks by one of the most successful of the early 50's R&B groups. Featuring their years on the King label this recording is a treat for fans of the clear, clean, sweet sound of the early R&B vocal groups. 25 tracks

Songlist: Will You Be Mine, Dearest, Wishing for You, Since You've Been Away, Eternally, You Left Me, It Ain't the Meat, Roll, Roll Pretty Baby, Tell Me Why, Beside You, I Only Have Eyes for You, You Walked In, Our Love Is Dying, Where Do I Go from Here?, Nobody's Lovin' Me, Please, Baby, Please, Laugh (Though You Want to Cry), Trust Me, Pleading Blues, I'll Be Waiting, Bicycle Tillie, It Feels So Good, We Want to Rock, Itchy Twitchy Feeling, Who Knows, Do You?

Tribunes : Doo Wop Acappella

Review: The Tribunes give us that street corner feel with their a cappella renditions of such doo wop gems as "Story Untold", "Diamonds And Pearls" and "What Time Is It."

Songlist: Diamonds and Pearls, Story Untold, Little Darlin', If You Want To, Come Go With Me, What Time Is It?, Under The Boardwalk, Summertime, Sixteen Candles, Over The Rainbow

Variations : Wish That You Were Here

Review: These East Coast doo woppers capture the earnest innocence of the girl groups of the 'fifties. Featuring two altos, two sopranos and one lone fella on bass, the Variations specialize in less familiar songs recorded by the Crystals, Orlons, Capris, and many others (history included in the liner notes). Obviously a labor of love, "Wish You Were Here" reminds us what it was like to be a girl in the era of poodle skirts and malteds at the diner-ecstasy if he liked you, misery and pathos if he didn't. The trademark oohs and aahs, and plaintive vibrato implore ("Please Come Back to Me"), adore ("Heart Darling Angel") and admonish ("You Better Run"). The harmonies are well-executed and are nicely balanced by the bass register, resulting in a full, complete sound. A welcome addition to the doo-wop category.

Songlist: Lover's Prayer, Baby Doll, I Love My Baby, Scheming, In Between Kisses, You Better Run, Please Come Back To Me, Oh My Darling, Mine All Mine, Deceiving Blues, Just Before You Leave, Please Believe I love You, Don't Say Goodbye, Heart, Darling, Angel, Jerry, I Am So Lonely, I Love You So, Wish That You Were Here

Various Artists : A Cappella Comes To Broadway

Review: A live recording featuring six contemporary doo-wop groups, billed as 'an acappella tribute to R & B vocal group harmony,' recreating the doo-wop classics of yesteryear (save Reunion, who throw a curveball by including Thin Lizzy's 'Boys Are Back In Town'). As promoted by Ronnie I, Choice, the Delmonicos, Larkings, Reunion, Things To Come and the Valentinos (the only mixed male/female group)render their own interpretations of 'I Like It Like That' (Spaniels), 'Why Did You Have To Go' (Dells), 'Story Untold' (Nutmegs), 'Since I Don't Have You' (Skyliners) and 'Memories Of You' (Harptones) and many more. 

Songlist: Ronnie I Intro, Shoo Be Do Wah, I Like It Like That, Everybody's Laughing, Two Loves Have I, Stardust, Can't We Be Sweethearts, Why Do You Have To Go, Story Untold, Down To Earth, Over and Over Again, Boys are Back in Town, Wonderful Tonight, Silvie, At This Moment, Sh-Boom, Since I Fell For You / Since I Don't Have You, Farewell My Love, Solitaire, My Memories of You, Lullabye of the Bells

Various Artists : Apollo Acappella Audition Album

Review: New York City's Apollo Records was a key fifties R&B label that released great groups, blues and gospel. In their archives, however, was unearthed a treasure trove of audition tapes of early a cappella groups, The Casanovas, Miriam Grate & The Dovers, the Gentlemen, The Keynotes, and the Avalons. This is a collection of 20 of the best songs rescued from the dusty boxes in Apollo's warehouse: "A Star" and "Early One Morning" by the Keynotes, "Pleading from My Heart" and "Night Rider" by the Casanovas," The Dovers' tasty "My Love" and "Sweet as a Flower," "Baby Looka Here" by the The Avalons, and "Story of a Love Gone Cold" by the Gentlemen are some of our favorites. Most of these songs are new to us, and they showcase the raw talent and creativity of the early Doo-Wop scene, where dozens of groups were a record contract or some radio play away from a hit and stardom.

Songlist: Please Be Mine, Only Heaven Knows, Youre Driving Me Crazy, A Star, Pleading From My Heart, My Love, Love Me Now Or Let Me Go, Girl In The Chapel, Sweet As A Flower, Suddenly, Baby Looka Here, You Are My Queen, Tell Me You Love Me, Night Rider, Do Something For Me, Early One Morning, The Sentence, Story of a Love Gone Cold, I Don't Know, Your Love

Various Artists : Best of Acappella Vol. 5

Review: More great tracks in this classic series from maestro Ronnie Italiano.

Songlist: I Don't Want To Cry, Forgotten Spring, It Was The Night, When I Fell In Love, Twilight, Please Say It Isn't So, Don't Leave Me Baby, You Never Loved Me, Lundee Dundee, Ooh Baby Baby, Danny Boy, Hang On Sloopy, Autumn Leaves, Speedoo, To The Aisle, This Magic Moment, Sound Of Heartbreak, Castle In The Sky, Good Good-Bye, Senorita

Various Artists : Doo Wop Box

Review: The Doo Wop era lasted for just for a short period of time but this excellent and arguably the best of all the Doo Wop compilations is in this 4 CD Box set . Ranging from the years 1948 to 1987 it concentrates its music in the 50s where most of the best doo wop was recorded on small indie labels . There were revivals since the early 60s when the era ended and some of that is showcased somewhat here .

If you grew up in the era these tunes will give you goose bumps all over and being a jazz enthusiast I found that some of the tenor breaks in many of these doo wop classics nothing short of amazing.

Various Artists : Doo Wop Box Vol 2

Review: The second set of Rhino Records' The Doo Wop Box includes such gems as Robert & Johnny's "We Belong Together," Gene Chandler's "Duke of Earl" and the Robins' original version of Leiber & Stoller's "Smokey Joe's Cafe." The box set contains 39 Top 30 R&B hits plus such pop smashes as the Platters' "My Prayer," the Clovers' "Love Potion No. 9," Dion & the Belmonts' "Where or When," the Crests' "Step by Step," the Marcels' "Heartaches" and Don & Juan's "What's Your Name." Putting more emphasis on uptempo tunes than its predecessor, the new box includes both the Cadillacs' "Zoom" and the Collegians' "Zoom Zoom Zoom" as well as Frankie Lymon's giddy, boy soprano on the galloping "ABC's of Love." The first Doo Wop Box is still the better collection, for it had first crack at the widely acknowledged classics of the genre, but The Doo Wop Box II is full of historical milestones and dizzying music.

Various Artists : Starlight Serenade Vol. X

Review: This is volume 10 of an a cappella doo-wop retrospective series on Starlight Discs. There are 20 cuts on this CD, featuring Lewis Lymon & The Teenchords, Fred Johnson & The Marcels, The Chalets, The Revelations, The Prospects, Angel & the Allures, Cornerstone, Neighbor's Complaint, Elements of Life, The Four Sevilles and Street Dreams. The tunes are all standards like 'Angel Baby,' 'For Your Precious Love,' 'Lean On Me' and 'What's Your Name' or might-have-been hits, like 'Way Beyond Today,' 'In A Fairy Tale' and 'Lily Maebelle.' No info on the groups, but a cool picture of Lewis Lymon (Frankie's brother?) & The Teenchords on the front.

Songlist: Dance Girl, Please Tell the Angels, Goodbye to Love, Fat Mom Mi O, Lily Maebelle, Lean on Me, Higher and Higher, Way Beyond Today, Dedicated to the One I Love, Angel Baby, Come Back My Love, My Lonely Room, For Your Precious Love, That's What You're Doing To Me, Over the Rainbow, In A Fairy Tale, What's Your Name, Bluebird of Happiness, Don't Say Goodbye

Various Artists : Starlight Serenade Vol. XII

Review: You know the drill - this is volume 12 of an a cappella doo-wop retrospective series on Starlight Discs. There are 20 cuts on this CD, featuring Dino & the Heartspinners, Charles Moffitt's Velours, Deja-Vu, The Four Sevilles, The Ovations, The Revelations, A Moment's Pleasure, and New Emage. The tunes are all doo-wop standards like 'Love Potion #9,' 'Ten Command-ments of Love,' 'Under the Boardwalk' and 'Why Do Fools Fall In Love' or songs that might have been doo-wop hits, like 'Mio Amore,' 'Sweetness' and 'Laura.' No info on the groups in the liner notes, but there's a vintage picture of the Velours is on the front, and a picture is worth...

Songlist: Ten Commandments of Love, Mio Amore, This Could Be the Night, Maaybe, Over the Rainbow, If I, Little Maiden, You're Mine, Laura, Love Potion No. 9, Don't Look Back, White Christmas, What Are You Doing New Year's Eve, Sweet One, Sweetness, O Baby Don't, Ol' Man River, Frankie & Johny, Under the Boardwalk, Why Do Fools Fall in Love

Various Artists : Starlight Serenade Vol. XIV

Review: Volume 14 of an a cappella doo-wop retrospective series on New York-based Starlight Discs. There are 20 cuts on this CD, featuring Dino & the Heartspinners, The Paragons, The Bob Knight Four, Yesterday's Today, Street Corner Serenade, Tears of Joy and Elements of Life. The tunes are all standards like 'Mr. Blue,' 'Blue Velvet,' 'Believe It Or Not' and 'I Love You So' or might-have-been hits, like 'Sugar Lump,' 'Last Night I Dreamed' and 'Betty.' A classic pic of the Bob Knight Four is on the front.

Songlist: Sweet Was the Wine, Blue Velvet, P.S. I Love You, Shadrack, For Your Precious Love, There's a Moon Out Tonight, Jitterbug Mary, Brown Eyed Girl, Goodbye to Love, Last Night I Dreamed, Papa Was a Rolling Stone, Come Back My Love, Sugar Lump, Believe It or Not, I Love You So, Mr. Blue, Ready For Your Love, Love Potion No. 9, Disco Mama Disco Man

Various Artists : Ultimate Doo Wop Christmas

Review: Outstanding holiday doo wop set featuring the fabulous harmonies of favorite vocal groups including Kenny Vance & The Planotones, Larry Chance & The Earls and many others.

Songlist: Doo Wop Christmas, After New Year's Eve, Here Comes Santa Claus, You're My Christmas Present, Mr. Santa, Like A Kid At Christmas, A Christmas Long Ago, Another Lonely New Years Eve, Merry Christmas, No Christmas Cheer

Audrey Snyder : White Christmas

Review: It's the Irving Berlin favorite as performed doo-wop style by the Drifters, rediscovered in the movie Home Alone and with Santa and his reindeer on the web. Now perform it live with your group and this easily learned choral arrangement! Available separately: SATB, SSA, TTB, ShowTrax CD. Electric bass part included. Duration: ca. 2:50.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   TTB,   SSA,   SATB,   SSA,   TTB

As Performed by: Drifters

Ed Lojeski : Lost in the Fifties Tonight (Medley)

Review: Travel back in time to an age of young love, bobby socks and doo-wop! This charming medley, full of entertaining harmony and melody, will be a favorite. Includes: Book of Love (The Monotones, 1958), Earth Angel (The Crew-Cuts/The Penguins, 1955), Graduation Day (The Rover Boys/The Four Freshmen, 1956), Lost in the Fifties Tonight (In the Still of the Nite) (The Five Satins, 1956), Sh-Boom (Life Could Be a Dream) (The Crew-Cuts, 1954). Available: SATB, SAB, 2-Part, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 8:40.

Sheet Music Available: 2-Part,   SAB,   SATB

Ed Lojeski : The Best of Doo-Wop

Review: Your guys will love the campy classics in this medley: Duke of Earl; Book of Love; Get a Job; Goodnight, It's Time to Go. Available: TTBB a cappella, Instrumental Pak (with score), ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 5:30.

Sheet Music Available: SSAA,   TTBB

Ed Lojeski : The Best of Doo-Wop (Medley)

Review: For the girls, a medley of four great nostalia tunes: A Teenager in Love, Lollipop, Earth Angel, Sh-boom. Available: SSAA a cappella, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 4:47.

Songlist: A Teenager in Love, Lollipop, Earth Angel, Sh-boom

Jay Althouse : Blue Moon

Review: Only once in a blue moon does a song like this come along! This Rodgers and Hart hit has been recorded by legions of stars. Jay's arrangement starts soulfully, then kicks into The Marcels' 1961 doo-wop version.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB,   SSA

Kirby Shaw : A Fifties Doo-Wop Snapshot (Medley)

Review: This little 3 song medley is full of the iconic Doo-wop style that was so popular in the 1950's and continues today. A nice range of tempos make this an attractive group for programming and if you don't have a combo, the ShowTrax is great.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB,   SSA,   ,   SATB,   SAB,   SSA,   SATB,   SAB,   SSA

Kirby Shaw : At the Hop

Review: From the decade that gave us Rock 'n' Roll, this #1 Hit from Danny and the Juniors will make you want to kick off your shoes and dance the night away! Kirby's energetic and accessible arrangement is ideal for choirs of all ages! Super choreography showcase! Available SATB, 3-Part Mixed, 2-Part, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 2:45.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   3-Part,   2-Part,   3-Part,   2-Part,   SATB

As Performed by: Danny and the Juniors

Kirby Shaw : Let's Hang On

Review: The 1965 hit by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and featured in the Broadway Musical Jersey Boys makes an incredible showcase for men's choirs of all ages. Hot! Hot! Hot! Available separately: TBB, ShowTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:15.

Sheet Music Available: TTB,   TTB

As Performed by: Four Seasons

Kirby Shaw : Speedoo

Review: Show some attitude with this 1956 pop hit by the Cadillacs! This uptempo classic from the golden age of doo-wop makes a perfect selection for some fancy footwork! Available separately: TBB, ShowTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:30.

Sheet Music Available: TBB

As Performed by: Cadillacs

Kirby Shaw : Up On the Roof

Review: Here's a great arrangement of the 1962 doo-wop classic by the Drifters, as recorded by James Taylor in 1979. Excellent for developing pop style and blend!Available separately: SATB, SAB, SSA and ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 3:40

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB

As Performed by: James Taylor

Mac Huff : A Teenager in Love

Review: Dion & the Belmont's 1959 hit makes a great showcase for younger choirs with this Discovery Pop arrangement by Mac Huff.

Sheet Music Available: 2-Part,   2-Part

As Performed by: Dion & The Belmonts

Mac Huff : Only You (And You Alone)

Review: Who can forget the smooth sound of the Platters in this 1955 hit! Show off your guys' group in style with this sensational arrangement of a doo-wop classic!

Sheet Music Available: TTBB

As Performed by: Platters

Mac Huff : Put Your Head on My Shoulder

Review: This 1959 Paul Anka hit was recently covered by new singing sensation Michael Bublé. Guys of all ages will have a great time with this new arrangement.Available separately: TTBB and ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 3:10.

Sheet Music Available: TTBB,   TTBB

Mac Huff : Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Review: Spread a little Christmas cheer '50s-style with this fun doo-wop setting! Available: SATB, SAB, 2-Part, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: 2:30.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB

Mac Huff : Since I Don't Have You

Review: Your men's group will be the hit of the show with the smooth vocal textures of this 1959 pop hit by the Skyliners. Available separately: TTBB, ShowTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:35.

Sheet Music Available: TTBB,   TTBB

As Performed by: Skyliners

Mark Brymer : Up the Ladder to the Roof

Review: Based on the Nylons' version of this song, this accompanied arrangement is alive with rhythmic and vocal style! Available: SATB, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 2:30.

Sheet Music Available: SATB

As Performed by: Nylons

Roger Emerson : Forever Doo-Wop (Medley)

Review: Relive rock 'n roll's golden era with this fun medley. Includes: Book of Love; Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight; In the Still of the Nite, Save the Last Dance for Me, Sh-Boom, A Teenager in Love. Available: SATB, SAB, 2-Part, ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 7:00.

Sheet Music Available: SAB,   SATB

Roger Emerson : Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight

Review: The perfect introduction to the sounds of a by-gone era, this 1954 hit was originally recorded by The Spaniels. Classic doo-wop!Available separately: TBB and ShowTrax CD. Performance Time: Approx. 4:00.

Sheet Music Available: TBB

As Performed by: Spaniels

Roger Emerson : Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)

Review: 1993

Sheet Music Available: SSA,   SSA

As Performed by: Billy Joel

Roger Emerson : Mr. Bass Man

Review: The pop novelty number by the '60s artist Johnny Cymbal has been covered by everyone from Sha Na Na to the Muppets and will be a hit on your stage as well, with a hilarious doo-wop bass line that will be an absolute blast to perform! Available separately: SATB, 3-Part Mixed, TBB, ShowTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:35.

Sheet Music Available: SAB,   SATB,   TBB,   TBB,   SATB,   SAB

As Performed by: Sha Na Na