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.
For older archived news, click 2012 What's New,
2012 What's New,
2011 What's New,
2010 What's New,
2009 What's New, or
2008 What's New.
Site last modified, May 22, 2013.
News
2013
![[New!]](news_files/image002.gif)
SAVE
THE DATE!!!
Classic Urban
Harmony' and the Asbury Park Historical Society to present our first Gospel
Group Harmony Concert, September 28, featuring King David's Harp, Quiet Storm,
Spiritual Five and more!
Save the date, Saturday night, September 28, 2013, as Classic Urban Harmony
and the Asbury Park Historical Society will present their first ever Gospel
Group Harmony Concert at the VFW in Asbury Park NJ. So far the line up
includes King David's Harp from Portsmouth VA, the Philadelphia acappella
group Quiet Storm doing an all gospel set and from South Jersey, the Spiritual
Five. We add more gospel groups in the near future. The VFW building was
formerly the historic Asbury Park Armory that once held concerts by the Ravens
and Orioles and many more. This concert is a benefit to raise money for
the Asbury Park Historical Society. More info coming soon.
King David's Harp
Quiet Storm
VFW at Lake Avenue & Bond
Streets, formerly the Asbury Park Armory,
historic site of many great concerts by the Orioles, Ravens and others
James
Steward, last of the R&B pioneers vocal group, the Ravens, dies at age of 86.
James “Jimmy” Steward, last surviving member of the legendary pioneer R&B
group, the Ravens, died May 18, 2013, in Jacksonville, FL. He was 86.
Steward was born on May 27, 1926. He first joined the Ravens in late 1951,
replacing Leonard Puzey who had entered the service. At the time, Joe Van
Loan was singing lead tenor for the group and Steward handled second tenor.
Jimmy Ricks sang bass and Louis Frazier sang baritone. The group had just
signed with Mercury Records and Steward sang on “Out In The Cold Again”
(backing Dinah Washington), “There’s No Use Pretending,” “Begin the Beguine”
and “I’ve Got You Under my Skin”. In April 1953, Puzey returned from the
service and Steward left the Ravens for a short time. By early 1954, Jimmy
Steward rejoined the Ravens and stayed until their break up in 1956. He sang
on the Ravens' Jubilee sides, including “Green Eyes” (where he shared
the lead with Ricks) and “Bells Of San Raquel” which Steward led.
James Steward (bottom left)
with the Ravens.
(Photo courtesy of Paul Ressler)
Asbury Angels 2013 Plaque Dedication honors Gervis Tillman owner of the Vibro label, many more.
Photos now posted on this website.
The second year of Asbury Angels plaque dedications on the Asbury
Park Boardwalk of Fame took place on Saturday May 18. The Asbury Angels
Foundation's mission is to honor and memorialize the lives and history of
important members of the Asbury Park (NJ) musical community. This year's
Asbury Angels dedication was especially emotional since earlier in the day the
boardwalk was officially reopened after the destruction from Hurricane Sandy.
Of particular interest to vocal harmony fans, one of the inductees was Gervis "Gus" Tillman, noted
songwriter and owner of the Vibro label. The Vibro label was
the first record label in Asbury Park in the R&R era and Gus was responsible for
recording such Asbury Park artists as the Ray Dots, V-Eights, Bobby Thomas, Tony
Maples, Delmar Goggins, Mike Robinson and others. Also inducted was Leo Karp, owner of the famous
West Side nightclub, Leo's Turf Club. Other inductees were Chris Barry
(music journalist, promoter), Big Danny Gallagher (musician, songwriter),
George Iocca (sound technician, owner of Dynacoustics), Kevin Kavanaugh
(musician, piano teacher, Asbury Juke), Terry Magovern (icon), Phil Petrillo
(master luthier, musician), Madame Era Tognoll (opera singer, founder of Metro
Lyric Opera) and Bobby Williams (musician, Upstage veteran). To see
photos of the plaque dedication and the reception afterwards, click
Asbury
Angels 2013.
Gervis Tillman, Asbury Angel, plaque
To see photos of the Dedication Ceremony click
2013 Asbury
Angels
New
Book, "Ernie K-Doe: The R&B Emperor of New Orleans" now reviewed on our
Bookshelf Page.
Nearly everyone remembers the 1961 #1 song, "Mother-In-Law".
Well, Ben Sandmel has just published a well researched and well written
biography of singer Ernie K-Doe, one of the most eccentric and egotistical, yet
good-hearted, R&B singers we've ever read about. We picked up a copy on
our recent trip to New Orleans where we also went past the now-closed
Mother-In-Law Lounge. The story of the self proclaimed "Emperor of the
World" (and the mannequin that assumed his identity after Ernie died) is now
reviewed on our website. Click on our
Bookshelf Page to read our review and, if you
wish, link to where you can purchase a copy.
The now closed Mother-In-Law Lounge
(To see more photos of our New Orleans trip,
click 2013 N.O. Jazz
Fest)
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VGHA Acappella Extravaganza
II a Great Night for Vocal Harmony
The VGHA (Vocal Group Harmony Association) Acappella & Doo Wop Extravaganza #2
was held at the Paramus Elks Club (Paramus, NJ) on the evening of May 11,
2013. Hosted by Nick G, the show featured Still Around, Grand Central
Echoes, Echoes of Time, Re-MemberThen,
the Whiptones, Lisa & the LoveTones and Silk City. Seven great
vocal groups made for a very enjoyable evening. To see photos of the
event, click
VGHA Acappella Extravaganza II.
The Whiptones
Classic Urban Harmony Covers the
2013 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
We've returned from the 2013 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
and we've got reviews and many photos of performances by the Dixie Cups, Jean
Knight & her Knights of Rhythm, the Zion Harmonizers, the Rocks Of Harmony, the
Friendly Travelers, Doc McKenzie & the Hi-Lites and much more. Follow our
visit to New Orleans step by step by clicking
2013 New Orleans Jazz
Festival. We travel the world in search of group harmony so you
don't have to!
The Dixie Cups at the 2013 N.O. Jazz & Heritage Festival
Caleb N. Ginyard III Dies,
Singer, Music Historian, Author
While we were away in New Orleans we lost another long time friend.
Caleb N. Ginyard III, singer, music historian and author died Sunday April 28,
2013 at the age of 72. Caleb was the son of Caleb N. Ginyard, legendary
quartet singer with the Jubalairs, Dixieaires, Du Droppers and Golden Gate
Quartet. More than a decade ago, Caleb III began a quest to find out
more about his father, whom he barely knew, and document both his father's
musically legacy and this quest in a book entitled "My Name Is Caleb N.
Ginyard". At the time, Charlie assisted Caleb III with the research and
even helped arrange for Caleb to sing one of his father's recordings, backed
by the Sheps, at the United in Group Harmony Association's Hall of Fame
induction of the Jubalaires. Charlie also was one of three historians
Caleb invited to write a guest blurb on the book's back cover.
Caleb N. Ginyard III holding Jubalaires' UGHA Hall of Fame
plaque.
Photo by Pamela Horner, 1998.
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
Caleb N. Ginyard III on left. His father on right.
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
Mellows' Lillian Leach Dies.
We
are deeply saddened to report that Lillian Leach Boyd, fabulous lead of the Mellows,
passed away on April 26, 2013 at the age of 76. Born in Harlem, Lillian
Leach moved to the Morrisania section of the Bronx at a young age. She
began singing in church and then joined a neighborhood group called the
Mellows in 1953. The Mellows recorded four singles for Joe Davis' Jay
Dee label in 1954 and 1955. Lillian Leach led such classic group
harmony songs as "How Sentimental Can I Be," "I Still Care," Yesterday's
Memories and their best seller, "Smoke From Your Cigarette". In 1956
they moved to the Celeste label where they recorded "I'm Yours" and "My
Darling". Many of the group's other Celeste recordings remained
unreleased until issued on an LP by Relic Records in 1974. The Mellows
also recorded "Moon Of Silver" for the Candlelight label in 1957. In
1984, Lillian Leach & the Mellows reunited to sing at the United in Group
Harmony Association. They continued as a group into the 21st Century.
Lillian also recorded with the Morrisania Review in 1994. Over the years we have
heard Lillian sing at UGHA on many occasions and have talked with her several
times. She was always gracious and friendly and we came to know her as a
wonderful person besides a talented singer. The poster below was prepared and
framed for us by Lou Rallo and autographed by Lillian.
(From the Classic Urban
Harmony Archives)
(From the Classic Urban
Harmony Archives)
Unusual orange label
variation of
"Smoke From Your Cigarette"
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
Check out the New Responses to the article on
the Time Capsule Show 50th Anniversary now posted. Send us your
remembrances of the TCS!
We've been posting some of the many responses
to Dean Shapiro's fine article on the 50th anniversary of the Time capsule Show.
Click Time Capsule
Show and scroll to the bottom to read what former listeners have to say.
Then send us your own memories of the TCS by emailing them to
CUH@att.net.
Classic
Urban Harmony Newsletter # 8 Now Out!
Our latest FREE Classic Urban Harmony
Newsletter (# 08) has now been sent out and it's one of our best. Check you
In-Box! If you're not already subscribed, send your name and email address
to CUH@att.net.
New
Reviews posted on our Bookshelf & DVD Page.
We just added new reviews to our Bookshelf &
DVD Page, including "Melody Man" (the 2012 Joe Davis bio) and the 2010 DVD "A
Lesson in A Cappella". Click
Bookshelf Page.
Ronnie
I Reunion Dance, Elmwood Park, NJ, May 18, 2013
This from
Sandra I at Clifton Music.
“Remember the
monthly shows where we gathered for some good entertainment, dancing, and
meeting up with friends? Ronnie not only gave us great shows, but also the
opportunity to meet so many wonderful people who have since forged lasting
friendships. It was always about the music and the camaraderie. Sadly, many of
these friends have moved away or just haven’t had the chance to meet up as
they used to in the old days. Ronnie’s brother Dickie decided it would be
really nice to have a dance and see how many of the old gang could gather
again and enjoy a night of music, dancing, catching up, and most of all to
celebrate Ronnie I. Our dear friend KJ calls this the Ronnie I. Reunion Dance
and it will take place on Saturday, May 18th at the American Legion Hall in
Elmwood Park, NJ. – 1 Legion Pl. – Elmwood Pk, NJ - 7:00pm (doors open at
6:30pm). This will be a dance, not a show. Reservations will not be necessary.
Dickie Italiano will be our DJ. You can call for further info (973) 365-0049.
– Tickets $12 at door - no advance purchase. Food and bar will be available at
reasonable prices. I do hope to see many of you there! Let’s reunite, dance,
and reminisce together.”
Exclusive Article Posted
Here: The Time Capsule Show on the 50th Anniversary of its first program!
It's the Time Capsule Show's 50th
Anniversary and we have Dean Shapiro's exclusive article on the history of this
legendary radio program as seen through the eyes of its creators, Joe Marchesani
and Tom Luciani. The article contains many photos and documents from the
show's early years supplied by Joe Marchesani! Click
Time Capsule Show to take
a look. If you grew up in NYC or Philly and love R&B vocal harmony there's
a good chance this program influenced your life.
The original playlist for the first Time
Capsule Show,
March 28, 1963. To see a larger more readable copy
plus many more photos and a terrific article,
click Time
Capsule Show
Sol
Rabinowitz, owner of Baton label dies
Sol
Rabinowitz, founder and owner of the Baton and Sir labels, well known to R&B
vocal group fans, died March 20, 2013, in North Carolina. Sol reported on the
website,
www.daremusic.com/story.htm, how in
1953 he spent $250 to record four sides by the Rivileers, a quintet from
Jamaica Queens who had left one of their demos in a record store. Sol took an
acetate to Dr. Jive (Tommy Smalls) at WWRL and the calls started coming in.
Sol started his own record label, Baton, and released the Rivileers' "A
Thousand Stars" which became a hit despite limited distribution. Many more
hits followed, especially with air play in NYC by Alan Freed. Vocal harmony
aficionados know that the Baton label featured numerous great songs by the
Rivileers, Hearts, Fidelities, Ann Cole, the Suburbans, Kings, Belvederes and
others.
Sol Rabinowitz
Charles
Evans of 5 Five Dollars and Don Juans dies.
Charles Evans, founding member and bass singer for the Five Dollars (also
recorded as the Don Juans) died Friday March 28, 2013. Formed in 1953, the
fine Detroit R&B vocal group recorded at least twenty records for the Fortune
label between 1955 and 1960. Charles Evans can be heard leading the Five
Dollars on "You Fool," a song he also wrote.
Charles Evans leading the Five
Dollars
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
Boyz
II Men Celebrate 20+ Years with concert at New Brunswick (NJ) State Theatre
It's hard to believe that it's been more than 22 years since the Philadelphia
R&B vocal group, Boyz II Men burst on the scene with their first album,
Cooleyhighharmony. Now, 60 million records and four Grammy's
later, the group is still generating the same excitement in their live
performances as they did back then. Growing out of an acappella group from the
Philadelphia High School For Creative and Performing Arts in the late 1980's
the group soon rose to greater heights. "My friend Bob Bosco, a teacher at the
high school, wanted me to bring them on my radio program back then," recalls
Charlie Horner, "But there was a long list of acappella groups waiting to get
on the show then. Next thing I knew, they had signed with Motown."
Boyz II Men, now a trio, gave an incredible concert at the New Brunswick (NJ)
State Theatre on April 6. For a packed audience that enthusiastically knew
every word of every song, the group sang a mix of highlights from their career
like "End Of The Road," "Motownphilly" and "Water Runs Dry" as well as songs
from their newest album,
Twenty. We enjoyed their
tribute to Motown and of course the acappella version of "It's So Hard To Say
Goodbye To Yesterday".
Boyz 2 Men at the State
Theatre
2013 Portsmouth VA Gospel Concert
a Historic Event
We just returned from Rev. Brenda Boone's annual gospel program
in Portsmouth, VA, and it was a fabulous event! Lasting just short of
five hours, we got to see the historic reunion of the Soul Stirrers with
former lead Frankie Davis (now with the Golden Gate Quartet) plus inspiring
gospel vocal harmony sets by Luther Barnes & the Sunset Jubilaires, King
David's Harp, the Gospel Disciples, the Harmonizing Echoes, the Word Singers,
the Hurdle Brothers and Rev. Brenda Boone's Higher Praise Community Choir.
There were also a number of great gospel soloists and an outstanding gospel
band, the Mighty Stars. To read our review and see about 40 photos,
click 2013 Virginia Gospel Concert.
Pam & Charlie meet the Soul Stirrers
Portsmouth, VA
Bermuda
News Media writes about Classic Urban Harmony traveling to Bermuda to search for
the Talbot Brothers' music
Little did we know, when we went to Bermuda a couple years ago in search of
Bermuda vocal groups like the Talbot Brothers, that our website postings about
the music would end up in the Bermuda news media. None-the-less, in the
article "Music Historian Sings the Talbot Brothers Praise," Bermuda's News and
Cultural Source, Bernews went on to write, "A leading scholar of popular music
has been singing the praises of the legendary Bermuda vocal group the Talbot
Brothers. Described as 'one of the foremost authorities on early rhythm &
blues and vocal group music' by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum in
Cleveland, Ohio, American writer and lecturer Dr. Charlie Horner recently
visited Bermuda on vacation — but soon found his professional instincts
kicking in when he was exposed to the Talbot Brothers’ harmonies. The music
historian, former radio personality and renowned collector is a particular
connoisseur of vocal harmony and found himself enchanted by both the Talbot
Brothers’ sound and their story while in Bermuda." Well, the article is
correct, we love the Talbot Brothers' music and this recently published
article is great. We guess we're becoming known worldwide. To read the article
visit
Talbot Brothers.
To read about our 2010 Bermuda trip and Bermuda Harmony Groups in general,
click Bermuda.
www.classicurbanharmony.net
80,000
Visitors to our website
can't be wrong!
Thank you so much for making ours one of
the premier websites in the vocal harmony field!
- Charlie & Pam, March 21, 2013
Floyd "Buddy" McCrae Dies,
last member of the Chords
Floyd "Buddy" McCrae, last member of the Chords, died on March
19, 2013, at Montifiore Medical Center in the Bronx. The Chords formed
in 1953 in the Morrisania Section of the Bronx. They scored a national
cross over hit in 1953 with their self penned "Sh-Boom". It reached #2
on the R&B Charts. The song was soon covered by the white group, the
Crew Cuts, who took it to #1 on the Pop Charts.
The Chords. Buddy McCrae is at far right on the above
photo.
Spinners's lead Bobby Smith
dies.
Bobby Smith,
founder and lead singer of the internationally known soul group, the Spinners,
died March 16, 2013. He was 75. Smith helped found the Spinners in
1960 at Ferndale High School, just north of Detroit. Discovered by
former Moonglows' Harvey Fuqua, the Spinners were then vocally trained by
Fuqua and signed to his Tr-Phi label. There they had their first hit,
"That's What Girls Are Made Of," with Bobby Smith singing lead. Numerous
hits followed on the Motown, VIP and Atlantic labels, making the Spinners one
of the greatest soul vocal groups of all time. Bobby Smith sang lead on
hits like "I'll Be Around," "Could It Be I'm Falling In Love" and "Games
People Play". We'll add more to this post shortly.
Acappella Group Re-MemberThen
gives another classic performance for 200+ people at Italian American Club in
Manchester, NJ
Another stand-out performance by the doo wop acappella group,
Re-MemberThen, last night (March 15) for the Italian American Club, held at
Leisure Knoll Clubhouse in Manchester, NJ. We didn't take a count, but
there appeared to be about 200 people in attendance. We were honored to
emcee the concert. Re-MemberThen thrilled the audience with a mix of doo
wop standards, plus their own arrangements of "How Well I Remember" and "You
Belong To Me," the Larry Chance compositions "Acappella With My Friends" and
"On The Streets Of The Bronx," and their own "Thank You Johnny (A Tribute To
Johnny Maestro)". To see more photos of the event, click
Re-MemberThen in Manchester. For our friends at Leisure
Knoll, we'll be back for another doo wop presentation June 25 and a private
acappella concert by the group, Quiet Storm, on September 6.
Re-MemberThen in Manchester, NJ
Acappella
Group, Nostalgia 5, FREE Concert at the Franklin Township Public Library,
Somerset, NJ
Great news for those who live within driving distance of our
home base, Somerset, NJ, and who have enjoyed the acappella groups we've been
bringing to the Franklin Township Public Library's Summer Concert Series over
the past few years. The FT Library (485 DeMott Lane) is sponsoring
another great FREE doo wop acappella group this year and we've arranged for
them to have Nostaglia 5 from Philadelphia. The date is Wednesday
evening, July 10, from 7 - 8:30 PM. There's no admission charge, but you
must register, as space is limited. We'll let you know when registration
is open (sometime in June).
Classic Urban Harmony
Newsletter #07 is now out.
If you're not receiving it in your In Box, send your name and e-mail to
CUH@att.net.
Reviews of the DVD "Street
Corner Harmony" and Lynn Abbott & Doug Seroff reference book, "To Do This You
Must Know How" are now posted on our
Bookshelf Page.
We've just added a YouTube of a trailer to the "Street Corner
Harmony" DVD for you to watch. Go to the
Bookshelf Page.
Our Article about Sammy
Strain & the Fantastics is now viewable on this website!
Our recent article about Sammy Strain and the Fantastics
("There Goes My Love"), originally published in Echoes of the Past
magazine has been updated and is now viewable on this website. The label
scans and some of the photos are now in color and some additional facts have
been added. Click
Fantastics Article to take a look.
Also, our next installment of the Sammy Strain story (Part 3 - the Imperials)
is now out in the latest issue of Echoes (scroll down for info).
Click
Fantastics Article to see more!
New Expanded Classic
Urban Harmony Exhibit of Rare Spiritual and Gospel Vocal Group Memorabilia at
the Franklin Township (NJ) Public Library on Display through Mid-June!!!!
It's up and viewable! Classic Urban Harmony's new expanded exhibit of
rare Spiritual
and Gospel Vocal Group Memorabilia in the Franklin Township Public Library, 485 DeMott
Lane, Somerset, NJ, has just been moved to the larger set of four adjacent display
cases outside the Historical Room near the Reference Desk. The
expanded display will run throughout mid-June, 2013. Even if you saw our
smaller display earlier, it's worth making another trip to the Library. For
those too far from New Jersey to make the trip or those who want to first take
an on-line look, click CUH
Gospel Exhibit.
Pam & Charlie
just after two days of working on the exhibit.
The colored vinyl "Shelf of Fame". To view more photos
click CUH Gospel Music
Exhibit.
New Echoes of the Past (#103)
now out! Contains our article about Sammy Strain (Part 3) & the
Imperials.
The latest issue of Echoes of the Past (#103) is now out. Lots of great
articles about 1950's and early 60's vocal groups including our most recent
article about Sammy Strain (Part 3) and the Imperials (before Little Anthony
returned). Also great articles about the Impacts, Socialites, Four of a
Kind and more. To subscribe to Echoes (the only print magazine out there
that features exclusively fifties & sixties vocal groups) email Bob Belniak at
echoes.past@yahoo.com.
Free screening of the 2000 documentary "Jubilee Singers"
at the Franklin Township Public Library.
If you've never seen the 2000 documentary, "Jubilee Singers:
Sacrifice and Glory" (or even if you have and would like to see it again),
this outstanding one-hour film will be screened at the Franklin Township
Public Library at 7 PM on May 22, 2013. Pam & Charlie Horner of Classic
Urban Harmony and the Franklin Township Cultural Arts Council will introduce
the film and answer questions at the end. The Library is at 485 DeMott
Lane, Somerset, NJ. Admission is FREE but registration is required.
Registration will begin in mid-April. We'll let you know when and how to
register. Before and after the screening, you'll have a chance to view
our new expanded Gospel Music memorabilia
exhibit.
Madisons'
lead, Johnny Curtis dies.
Johnny Curtis (aka Johnny Whipple) has passed away. Johnny was lead vocalist
of the Madisons, the fine 1960's vocal group from Syracuse, NY. The group
recorded "The Wind and the Rain" (Lawn label), "Valerie" (Twin Hit label),
"Only A Fool" (Jomada label), and "Cheryl Anne" (MGM label). [This item
courtesy of Steven Kahn]
Madisons' Johnny Curtis
Miracles'
Bobby Rogers dies
Bobby Rogers, one of the founding members of Smokey Robinson's
Miracles died Sunday March 3, 2013, of complications from
diabetes. He was 73. Rogers was born in Detroit on February 19,
1940. In the mid 1950's, Bobby Rogers was invited by his cousin
Sonny Rogers to join a singing group from Northern High School
called the Five Chimes. The group also contained future Miracles
William "Smokey" Robinson, Ronnie White and Pete Moore. The group
promptly changed its name to the Matadors. When Sonny Rogers
entered the army, his replacement was Claudette Rogers, Sonny's
sister (and soon to become Mrs. Smokey Robinson). This group would
become the Miracles when Smokey Robinson saw the Silhouettes
singing on American Bandstand and wrote an answer record to "Get A
Job" called "Got A Job" (the Miracles' first record). Bobby Rogers
was not only a great tenor singer, he was also a great dancer
which fit into the Miracles' choreography. As a song writer, Bobby
Rogers co-wrote "First I Look At The Purse" (Contours), "The Way
You Do The Things You Do" (Temptations), "Ain't That Peculiar"
(Marvin Gaye), "Going To A Go-Go" (Miracles) and many more songs.
After Smokey Robinson left the Miracles to go solo in 1972, Rogers
kept the Miracles going. A recent illness forced him to retire
from singing.
The Miracles: Bobby Rogers top left
Jewel
Akens dies. “The Birds & The Bees” soloist also sang with 4 Dots, Astro-Jets,
Composers, Rainbows, Turn-arounds, Terry & Tyrants, Feathers
Jewel Akens died Friday March 1, 2013, of complications from back
surgery at Centinela Hospital Medical Center in Inglewood, CA. He
was 72. Mention the name Jewel Akens and most people think of the
1965 Top 10 pop recording of “The Birds & The Bees”. Yet vocal
harmony fans remember Jewel Akens for his work as first tenor for
West Coast R&B vocal groups like the Four Dots (Freedom
label), Astro-Jets (Imperial label), Rainbows (Gramo
label), Terry & Tyrants (Kent label), Composers (Era
label), Turn-Arounds (Era label) and Johnny Staton’s
Feathers (Classic Artists label). Jewel also sang on John
Ashley’s great group ballad, “Seriously In Love” (Silver
label). To learn more and to listen to some of Jewel Aken's best
vocal group records and see a video of him singing "The Birds And
The Bees" click our tribute to
Jewel Akens.
(From the
Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
To see more click
Jewel Akens
Steve Blitenthal of Whirlin'
Disc Record Store Dies
So sorry to hear that Steve Blitenthal of Whirlin' Disc Record
Store in Farmingdale, Long Island, NY, passed away on March 4, 2013.
Anyone who seriously collected records in the NY area undoubtedly was a
customer of Steve. Our sincere condolences to Steve's wife and family.
Two former members of the
Temptations, Damon Harris and Richard Street die within ten days of each
other.
In another bit of sad news, two former members of the
Temptations have died this month. Damon Harris died February 18 and
Richard Street died February 27. Richard Street was with Otis Williams
and Melvin Franklin in the Distants, a group that was a forerunner to the
Temptations. He left prior to the group becoming the Temptations and
became lead of the Monitors ("Greetings This Is Uncle Sam"). Street
would later join his friends, the Temptations in 1971, replacing Paul
Williams.
Originally on the Northern label, the Distants' first record
was popular enough to be picked up by the larger, Warwick label.
Note Richard Street is referred to as "Richard Strick"
(From the Classic Urban harmony Archives)
Otis "Damon" Harris grew up in Washington DC, where he sang
with a group called the Young Tempts. When the group recorded for the
Isley Brothers' T-Neck label, they were forced to change their name to the
Young Vandals. After the break up of the Young Vandals in 1971, Damon
Harris joined the Temptations, replacing Eddie Kendricks.
Both Street and Harris were on the Temptations' hit recordings
"Superstar" and "Papa Was A Rollin' Stone". Harris left the Temptations
in 1975, Street stayed with the group until 1993.
Virgil Johnson of the Velvets
Dies. Writer and lead of "Tonight Could Be the Night"
Virgil Johnson, organizer and lead singer of the Velvets, died
on February 24, 2013, at the age of 77. The group was best known for
their 1961 hit "Tonight (Could Be The Night)". The song, written by
Johnson, reached #26 on the Pop Charts and has since become a doo wop
standard. Johnson was a school teacher in Odessa, Texas, at the time and
formed the Velvets with some of his students. The group was recommended
to Monument Records by fellow Texan, Roy Orbison, who wrote several songs for
the group. To read the entire story of the Velvets, click
Virgil Johnson Tribute.
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
Staple Singers' Cleotha
Staples Dies
Cleotha Staples, original member of the popular gospel and folk
group, the Staple Singers died on February 21, 2013 at her home in Chicago.
She was 78. Ms. Staples had been battling Alzheimer’s Disease for the past
ten years. The Staple Singers are one of the best known gospel groups of
all time. Their popularity extends beyond the gospel music field, due to
their pop hits like "I'll Take You There" and "Respect Yourself". To
read our Cleotha Staples' tribute and the story of the Staples Singers, click
Staples Singers.
The Staple Singers: Cleotha Staples second from left.
Rare photo from the Classic Urban Harmony Archives
Alexander Mauro, lead
vocalist and drummer for Mike Pedicin Quintet dies.
Alexander Mauro, lead vocalist and drummer for the Mike Pedicin
Quintet, died February 14, 2013, at the age of 89. Though not a vocal
harmony group per se, the Mike Pedicin Quintet were well known to those of us
who grew up in Philly. They were part of that group of white
Philadelphia bands of the early 1950's that put their own up tempo
interpretations to black songs and helped shape the early years of Rock &
Roll. The genre also included Bill Haley & the Saddlemen (Comets),
Charlie Gracie and others. Alexander Mauro is the lead voice on Mike
Pedison's "Shake a Hand," a R&R version of the Faye Adams' song.
Born Alexander Mauromicali in West Philly, on November 1, 1923,
Mauro began playing drums and stand up bass at the age of 21. While
playing with a band in Atlantic City in the late 1940's he was invited to join
the Mike Pedicin band. He stayed with them 25 years. [Thanks to
Anthony DiFlorio for telling us of this news.]
The first release of Mike Pedicin Quintet's "Shake a Hand"
was on 20th Century (a subsidiary of Gotham Records).
It was later released again on the Cameo label.
(From the Classic Urban harmony Archives)
Click the Youtube below to listen to Alexander Mauro's lead
voice on "Shake A Hand".
Home News Tribune (Central
NJ) features Classic Urban Harmony & the Franklin Township Cultural Arts
Council on front page! Video viewable on line through the link below.
If you live in Central NJ when you woke up on Saturday morning
March 2 and looked at your Home New Tribune you saw an article on our Cultural
Arts Council that also gave much attention to Classic Urban Harmony and our
recent presentations on Spirituals, "Crossing Jordan". Bob Makin's
article, "Ensuring The Show Goes On" talks about the Franklin Township
Cultural Arts Council and its importance to the community. Councilwoman
and deputy major Roz Sherman formed the Council last year. To read the
article on line and view a great video that was filmed at our recent "Crossing
Jordan" presentation at the Franklin Township Public Library, click the link
below.
http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20130301/NJCARING/303020004/Franklin-s-Deputy-Mayor-balances-passions-art-politics
Re-MemberThen packs them in
at New Providence (NJ) Memorial Library Acappella Concert
New Jersey acappella group, Re-MemberThen drew a standing room
only crowd at the New Providence (NJ) Memorial Library on Sunday afternoon,
February 24. The doo wop concert was sponsored by the Friends of the New
Providence Library and was free to the public. As usual, Re-MemberThen
did a great job, singing crowd pleasers like "Crying In The Chapel,"
"Wonderful Girl," "Gloria" and "You Belong to Me". They had the audience
clapping along to up tempo tunes like "Acappella With My Friends" and a fast
version of "Streets Of The Bronx". To see more photos from the event,
click Re-MemberThen
New Providence.
Re-MemberThen at the New Providence Memorial Library
Our Spirituals Display at the
Franklin Township Library to be Greatly Expanded, Extended until Mid-June
2013.
Thanks to the great response the Franklin Township (NJ) Public
Library has been getting to our display case of memorabilia on African
American Spirituals, we've been asked to greatly expand it and move it to the
four large display cases in front of the library's Historical Room. The
new display will be three times larger and will now also contain items
from more contemporary Gospel groups including the Soul Stirrers, Sensational
Nightingales, etc. We've been digging through the Classic Urban Harmony
Archives to find rare records, posters flyers and songbooks. We plan on
having the new display set up by March 6. It will remain in the library
now until mid-June, 2013. Hope you can come out to see it. We
guarantee you'll see some amazing items, like the Five Soul Stirrers first
commercial recording on the Bronze label (hand pressed in Leroy Hurte's Los
Angeles home in 1940), a 1920's poster for the Harrod Jubilee Singers along
with their 78 on the Black Swan label, sheet music by the Pilgrim Travelers,
and colored vinyl records by some of your favorite Gospel groups.
The Franklin Township Public Library is located at
485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873. It is open Mondays through
Thursdays, 10 AM to 9 PM; Fridays and Saturdays, 10 AM - 5 PM; Sundays, 1 - 4
PM. We'll let you know as soon as the new display is ready for viewing.
Future site of
our expanded Spirituals and Gospel harmony display
We've been busy framing some great Gospel posters for the new
display.
Crossing Jordan presentation
draws a capacity crowd at Franklin Township Public Library
Our new multimedia presentation, "Crossing Jordan: How African
American Spirituals Changed the World," drew an enthusiastic capacity crowd at
the Franklin Township Public Library in Somerset, NJ, on Wednesday night,
February 20. Close to a hundred people listened intently as we traced
the origins of Spirituals from slavery times to the mid-1950's. Not only
was our presentation well received, but people loved our library display of
Spirituals related memorabilia and our books of rare Gospel group photos,
sheet music and programs. The presentation was part of the Franklin
Township Cultural Arts Council's celebration of the 150th anniversary of the
Emancipation Proclamation and was sponsored by the Franklin Township Public
Library. To view photos from the event, click
FTL Spirituals
presentation.
Franklin Township Public Library presentation of "Crossing
Jordan"
Crossing Jordan presentation
a hit with First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens Seniors
What a great time we had giving our latest multimedia
presentation, "Crossing Jordan: How African American Spirituals Changed the
World" at the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, NJ on
February 12, 2013. The predominately African American church traces its
history back to 1933 and has a congregation of 6000. Our presentation
was for the seniors group and about 100 - 150 people were in attendance.
We were warmly received by an enthusiastic audience. Following our
presentation, the Senior Choir sang a couple Spirituals. We were also
treated to a delicious lunch. For more photos from our presentation
click First
Baptist Church.
Fellowship Room of First Baptist Church
Sister
Rosetta Tharpe subject of PBS TV Documentary, Feb. 22.
Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Gospel music superstar, guitarist and a
major influence on Rock & Roll music, was the subject of a PBS TV
documentary first aired on Friday, February 22 at 9 PM EST (check
your local TV listings to see if it's being rerun in your
area). The spiritual passion of Tharpe's gospel music inspired
many rock ’n’ roll singers, including Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley,
Jerry Lee Lewis, and Little Richard. The film featured archival
performances and interviews with musicians, producers and friends,
including Howard Carroll of The Dixie Hummingbirds, which toured
frequently with Rosetta Tharpe, gospel music author writer Anthony Heilbut,
Ira Tucker, Jr., son of The Dixie Hummingbirds’ Ira Tucker, Sr.
and Rosetta Tharpe's biographer Gayle Wald.
(Photo courtesy of Paul Ressler)
John Moore's Middle Room
Records, Legendary Philadelphia Record Store, to close at end of February
For those group harmony fans who grew up in Philadelphia, and
for many who visited, we're sure you know of John Moore's Middle Room Records.
John Moore and Charlie Horner are very close friends and co-hosted WXPN's
R&B/Classic Urban Harmony radio show together for many years in the 1980's.
John Moore's collectable and rare record store, Middle Room Records, has been
a Philly institution for almost 29 years. In fact, a large percentage of
the records in our Classic Urban Harmony Archives first passed through Middle
Room Records.
Middle Room Records will officially close its doors forever at
the end of this month. In fact, John told us today that all of the 45's
are already gone. This is truly the end of an era. We've posted a
tribute to Middle Room Records on this website. To see a collection of
photos of Middle Room Records over the years, including some pics of groups
singing in the store (a regular Friday night occurrence back in the day) click
John Moore.
Our thanks to John for all he's done for group harmony in Philly over the
years!
Middle Room Records during the glory years
(Photo from the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
New Book details life of
Golden Gate Quartet's Willie Johnson. Reviewed on our Bookshelf page.
Thirty years in the making, Chandra J. Johnson's biography of
her father, Willie Johnson of the Golden Gate Quartet and Jubilaires is now
available. "Willie T:
The Untold Story of Willie 'Bill' Johnson and his life before, during, and
after The Golden Gate Quartet" details the life of Willie "Bill" Johnson, the
lead singer of the Golden Gate Quartet. The “Gates” were the most important
Gospel and Spiritual vocal quartet of the 20th Century. They gave
rhythm and a beat to Gospel music and influenced thousands of vocal groups in
all musical genres. To read our review of the book, visit
Our Bookshelf Page.
There you'll also be able to click on the book's photo and be directed to
Amazon should you wish to acquire a copy.
Brian Utain of the Temptones
Dies.
Just heard from Bobby Eli, that Brian Utain has died on February
15, 2013. He'd been in an auto accident and went to the hospital
but was sent home. He died from apparent cardiac arrest. Brian was
an original member of the Temptones, a blue-eyed soul vocal group
from Philadelphia that also contained Daryl Hall (later of Hall &
Oates fame). The group got together at Temple University. The
Temptones are seen in the photo below with the Temptations at the
Uptown Theatre in 1967; Brian is at the far left in the bottom
row. The group made two outstanding records for the Arctic
label. John Oates later joined the Temptones as a guitarist.
"I first came to know Brian in the 1980's, when John Moore and I
were helping different doo wop acappella groups find gigs,"
recalled Charlie Horner. "Brian was singing with Acappella Gold
at the time. He later sang with a few different groups over the
years, including Just Us, Cornerstone, the Pinktones and Around
the Corner. Pam and I last saw him at the Philly Doo Wop Festival
in 2006. He was singing with the group, Now & Then. Brian was a
great guy and we'll miss him."
The Temptones
and Temptations, 1967
Brian Utain, bottom row left
(From the
Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
Now & Then at
2006 Philly Doo Wop Festival
Brian Utain second from left
Portsmouth
VA Gospel Concert Postponed until March 24.
For those considered heading down, as we were, to the big
annual six hour Gospel concert in Portsmouth, VA, originally scheduled for
Feb. 17, we've been notified by Reverend Brenda Boone that it has been postponed until
Sunday, March 24, 2013. It will be at a new location, Willett Hall, 3701
Willett Drive, Portsmouth, VA. The line up of Gospel singers, including
the Soul Stirrers, Frankie Davis, Rev. Luther Barnes & the Sunset Jubilaires,
King David's Harp, etc. remains almost the same. Check our
Events Calendar for
more details.
Johnny Bragg & Prisonaires
bio now reviewed on the bookshelf Page of this website.
For anyone who hasn't read Jay Warner's fascinating biography of
Johnny Bragg and the Prisonaires that came out a few years ago, you're missing
out on one of the great stories in R&B music history. You can now read
Pam's review of the book on the
Bookshelf Page of our website. And while you're there, if you
want to read the book, you can click on the book's photo and be sent to Amazon
to purchase a copy. Highly recommended!
Ethel Darlene McCrae Dies,
Founding Member of the Cookies and Raeletts. Tribute Posted.
Ethel "Darlene" McCrae, founding member of the female R&B trio,
the Cookies, died on February 5, 2013. The Cookies started singing
together in the choir of First Baptist Church in Coney Island, NY. Known
for their recording of "In Paradise," the Cookies also excelled as backup
vocalists, backing numerous artists including Joe Turner, LaVern Baker, Ruth
Brown and Ray Charles. The group, including Darlene McCrae eventually
evolved into Ray Charles' Raeletts. Darlene's sister, Earl-Jean McCrae
would later sing with a second Cookies group that would record "Chains" and many
other songs during the 1960's. To take a look at our tribute page for
Darlene McCrae, click
Cookies.
The Cookies, ca. 1956
Darlene McCrae at left.
(Photo courtesy of the Paul Ressler Archives)
Greg Carroll Dies, Member of
the Four Buddies, Orioles, Dappers, Ink Spots. See Our Tribute to him.
John "Greg" Carroll, founding member of the Four Buddies and later
a member of the Orioles (he was on "Crying In The Chapel"),
Dappers and Ink Spots, and co-writer and producer of Doris Troy's
"Just One Look," died January 24, 2013, at the age of 84.
We've now posted a tribute page for him with a bio, photos, label
scans and song clips. Click
Gregory Carroll to take a look.
Greg
Carroll (second from left) with 4 Buddies
(Photo courtesy of the Paul Ressler Archives)
Classic
Urban Harmony multimedia presentation, "Crossing Jordan: How African
American Spirituals Changed The World" coming to Franklin Township (NJ)
Public Library, Wednesday February 20. Registration now OPEN.
Classic Urban Harmony's Charlie & Pam Horner, in connection with the Franklin
Township's Cultural Arts Council will present their newest multimedia presentation,
"Crossing Jordan: How African American Spirituals Changed the World" at the
Franklin Township (NJ) Public Library, 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873, on
Wednesday evening February 20, 2013 at 7 PM. (In the event of severe inclement
weather, the snow date is February 27).
The presentation will begin with the development of Spirituals during slavery
times and discuss their religious origins as well as their use as
communications among slaves (references to the Underground Railroad, etc).
We’ll discuss the Fisk Jubilee Singers, their
hardships, triumphs and accomplishments including singing before President
Grant and Queen Victoria and exposing the rest of America and the world to
African American culture. We’ll cover Jubilee groups that sprang up after the
Fisk Jubilee Singers. Finally, we’ll cover how Spirituals evolved through the
first half of the 20th Century. Since Spirituals were
developed before recorded sound, we'll illustrate early Spiritual songs by
playing clips of the same songs done later by groups like the Golden Gate
Quartet, Dixie Hummingbirds, Soul Stirrers and Fairfield Four. Of
course, we'll have rare photos of groups, songbooks, flyers, posters and wax
cylinders. Some of the memorabilia will be nearby in a display case. The presentation is FREE to the
public but you must register in advance by calling the library's Reference
Desk at 732-873-8700. You can also register on-line through the
following link,
http://www.libraryinsight.net/eventdetails.asp?jx=ftp&lmx=275401&v=3
This new addition: Pam has organized a collection of 48 rare
photos of Spiritual and Gospel Quartets to go with her book of 1940's Gospel
sheet music - so be sure to stop by the Classic Urban Harmony table.
[When have you ever seen photos of the Mt. Eagle Quartet on the Gotham
subsidiary labels Apex and Phenix or the Flying Cloud Quintette of Detroit?]
Be sure to come early and check out or library display case
full of Spiritual related rare memorabilia, from the Fisk Jubilee Singers to
the Dixieaires.
Little
Isidore & Inquisitors "Clean Up Good" in Fair Lawn, NJ
A
capacity crowd filled The Knights of Columbus Hall in Fair Lawn,
New Jersey, on January 26, 2013. Little Isidore and The
Inquisitors presented their “Clean Up Good” show, and did we have
a good time!!!. To see photos of the event and read Pam's review,
click Little
Isidore in Fair Lawn.
Little Isidore (second from left) & the Inquisitors in Fair Lawn,
NJ
Channels' Jack Brown Dies
We just heard more sad news. Jack Brown (center of the
photo below), a member of earl Lewis' Channels, died on January 20, 2013.
Jack Brown first joined Earl Lewis' group in 1970 and was on all the Channels'
recordings on the Rare Bird and Channel
labels. He left the group in 1975 but rejoined then in 1988, staying
with them until recently when the group stopped singing. Jack began his
singing career as a tenor but later sang baritone and bass. More details
will be posted as they become available.
Teenagers' Jimmy Merchant,
Earls' Larry Chance Visit NJ Doo Wop Group Harmony Singers Club.
It's always a great time at the NJ Doo Wop
Group Harmony Singers Club in North Brunswick, NJ, where singers get together
and harmonize on the third Sunday of each month. This January's meet up
had a couple of added surprises when Teenagers' Jimmy Merchant and Earls'
Larry Chance both drove in from out of state to attend. Larry sang
several songs backed by the doo wop acappella group, Re-MemberThen. Jimmy
entertained everyone with tales of Frankie Lymon & the Teenagers. We
also got to hear about ten vocal groups sing; some professional and some pick
up groups that organized at the club. For photos of all the groups and a write
up about the afternoon, click the
NJ Doo Wop Singers Club Jan 2013. For
details about the Doo Wop Singers Club contact Stu Pushkin at
doowopstu@hotmail.com.
Left
to right in photo: Larry Chance, Jimmy Merchant,
Shelly Buchansky of Vito & Salutations and several other groups
Earls' Larry Chance Visits
Classic Urban Harmony Headquarters
What a pleasant surprise to have Larry Chance, legendary lead
of the Earls ("Remember Then," Life Is But A Dream," "Looking For My Baby," "I
Believe" and many more) visit Classic Urban harmony Headquarters recently!
Larry was in town to attend the NJ Doo Wop Singers Club get together where he
sang backed by the acappella vocal group, Re-MemberThen. Prior to his
visit, we had a nice dinner with Larry and his wife Deb, Frank and Marian
Cicerale and Harry and Pat Maitland. Frank and Harry sing with Re-MemberThen.
Larry Chance with Pam & Charlie at CUH Headquarters.
Larry's holding our
Earls 45 RPM collection. On top is our rare white promo copy of "I
Believe".
(Photo courtesy of Marian Cicerale)
Philadelphia Soul Singer Herb
Ward Dies
Philadephia soul singer, Herb Ward died on Christmas Eve, 2012.
Herb is best known for the Northern Soul classic, "Strange Changes," a record
produced by Weldon McDougal and associates at Harthon Records but released on
the Argo label in 1965. Vocal harmony fans like to flip the record over
and listen to "Why Do You want To Leave Me". Herb was born Herbert
McCracken and his first record was "If I Pray" on the small Philly label,
Buddy. He later recorded for Phi L.A. of Soul and
RCA-Victor. [This item courtesy of Sonny Hopson by way of Charles
Anderson and Dave Brown].
Herb Ward.
Label from the Classic Urban harmony Archives
West Side Harmony Celebrated
by Asbury Park Historical Society, Saturday January 19.
The Asbury Park Historical Society celebrated
Asbury Park's West Side harmony on Saturday January 19 by showing short videos
of Bobby Thomas and Lenny Welch along with a
video of the 2011 panel discussion between Bruce Springsteen, Southside Johnny
Lyon, Bobby Thomas and Nicky Addeo, discussing the West Side's unique vocal
harmony music scene. We (Charlie & Pam) got to give opening remarks
about Bobby and Lenny. We also brought along our book of Asbury Park
vocal group photos. To take a look of some photos of the event, click
Asbury Park Video
Screening.
Asbury Park Video Screening
Velours' Jerome Ramos Tribute
Page now posted on this website.
When we broke the sad news of Velours' lead Jerome Ramos couple weeks ago
we didn't have all the details. We now know that Jerome Ramos died of
throat cancer on October 21, 2012 at the age of 75. His distinct tenor voice can be heard on such group classics as "My Love Come
Back," "Romeo," "Can I Come Over Tonight," "This Could Be The Night,"
"Remember" and "Can I Walk You Home". Ramos also recorded with the
late-sixties and seventies soul harmony group, the Fantastics who were also
very popular in Great Britain.
We've now posted a tribute page to Jerome Ramos, complete with
label scans and YouTubes of many of our Velours favorites so you can hear some of their records.
We've even included a rare Belgian picture Sleeve of the Velours/Fantastics. Click
Jerome Ramos Tribute
to take a look.
"Can I Come Over Tonight"
(From the Classic Urban Harmony Archives)
Julius Green, original member
of the Mad Lads, dies.
Julius Green, an original founding member of the soul harmony
group the Mad Lads died in mid-January, 2013. The Mad Lads got together
at Booker T. Washington High School, in Memphis, TN, in the early 1960's.
They soon signed with the local Stax label and became one of the record
company's early success stories. Best known for their great 1965 ballad,
"Don't Have To Shop Around," the Mad Lads will always be considered one of the
great soul harmony groups of their time.
James "Buddy" Owens of the
Velons dies
James "Buddy" Owens, long time member of the Washington, DC,
vocal group the Velons, died January 10, 2013 at the age of 70. Owens began singing
around 1958 with a group called the Versatiles, that also included Jay Wiggins
of "Sad Girl" fame. In 1962, Buddy joined the Velons.
He's been singing with the Velons ever since. Over the years, the Velons
have been one of our favorite vocal harmony groups from the DC area.
Buddy sang lead on a number of their recordings including "Your Promise To Be
Mine," "Everybody's Got A Home But Me" and "Blue Lover". [Thanks to
Beverly Lindsay-Johnson for letting us know about this.]
Victor Rodriguez of Cameos,
Excellents and Delmonicos dies.
Victor "Rod" Rodriguez lead and tenor of the New Jersey doo wop
group, the Cameos died this week. Victor was born in East New York and
moved to the Bronx as a child. He was an original member of the
Delmonicos (AKU and Joda Records). Victor later sang with John Kuss &
the Excellents and the Creations (2003). In 2005, the Creations became
Kid Kyle's Kool Kats. More recently, Victor has been singing with the
Cameos.
Victor Rodriguez
(Photo courtesy of
http://thecameos.com/)
Problems with our website,
now fixed.
If you had problems with our website pages loading slowly last
weekend, you were not alone. Some could not get on this website at all.
On our end, we had problems with our server and couldn't upload any updates.
The server problems are now fixed (we hope) and things should be back to
normal. Thank you for your patience. - C&P
Classic
Urban Harmony display of rare
African American Spiritual Singers memorabilia now assembled at Franklin Township (NJ) Public Library.
Part of Franklin Township's Cultural Arts Council's Celebration of 150th
Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation
Classic Urban Harmony is now displaying a collection of rare Spirituals-related
memorabilia in the Franklin Township Public Library, 485 DeMott Lane,
Somerset, NJ. The display will run throughout February. This is worth
seeing and you can also view this if you come early to our February 20, 2013
multimedia presentation, "Crossing Jordan: How African American Spirituals
Changed the World". Click
Spirituals Display to see more photos.
Click Our Events Calendar
to learn more about our February 20 presentation.
Our display at the Franklin Township (NJ) Public Library
Asbury Angels Foundation
Announces 2013 Inductees: Vibro Record Label Owner Gervis Tillman and Turf
Club Owner, Leo Karp included.
The Asbury Angels Foundation, whose mission is to honor and
memorialize the lives and history of members of the Asbury Park (NJ) musical
community, has announced its 2013 inductees to receive plaques on the
Boardwalk of Fame. Fans of R&B vocal harmony will be pleased to see the
inclusion of Gervis "Gus" Tillman, songwriter and owner of the Vibro Record
label that released records by the Ray Dots, V-Eights, Mike Robinson, Delmar
Goggins and others. Also being inducted is Leo Karp, owner of the famous
West Side nightclub, Leo's Turf Club. Other inductees are Chris Barry
(music journalist, promoter), Big Danny Gallagher (musician, songwriter),
George Iocca (sound technician, owner of Dynacoustics), Kevin Kavanaugh
(musician, piano teacher, Asbury Juke), Terry Magovern (icon), Phil Petrillo
(master luthier, musician), Madame Era Tognoll (opera singer, founder of Metro
Lyric Opera) and Bobby Williams (musician, Upstage veteran).
They will be inducted on January 18 at the Light of Day's
Tribute to the Asbury Angels, held at the Stone Pony, Doors open at 6
PM. We assume boardwalk bench plaques will be presented later in the
year, though we haven't yet heard a date.
[We've been asked by many of our web visitors about Bobby
Thomas' induction status. Because Bobby passed away in 2012, he will
become eligible for induction in 2014. He is almost assuredly going to
be selected.]
We (Charlie & Pam) are members of the Asbury Angels' Advisory
Panel. For more details visit
www.asburyangels.com.
Gervis Tillman, (1922 - 1999)
(Photo courtesy of Ray Dahrouge)
Classic Urban Harmony
presentation for Knights of Columbus at Leisure Knolls in Manchester, NJ,
another great success!
On Friday, January 4, 2013, we gave our "Under the Streetlamp:
Tales of the Doo Wop Era - Part 1" multimedia presentation before an
enthusiastic audience of over a hundred residents of the Leisure Knolls
community in Manchester, NJ. The event was sponsored by the local
Knights of Columbus Council #10022 of Manchester and did we have a great time!
To take a look at some photos of the event, click
CUH at Leisure
Knolls. We hope to return there for future events.
Pam Horner at our memorabilia table
Leisure Knolls, January 4, 2013.
Panel Discussion of Asbury
Park West Side Music Scene Being Shown in Never Before Seen Video
From the Asbury Park Historical Society (of which we are proud members), comes
the following press release:
Bruce Springsteen, Southside Johnny Lyon and two prominent West Side Asbury
Park musicians will discuss the city’s unique vocal harmony music scene during
a special, never-before-seen video presentation being given by the Asbury Park
Historical Society on Saturday, Jan. 19 at 2 PM.
Bobby Thomas, of the famous Orioles singing group, and
well-known West Side vocalist Nicky Addeo joined Springsteen and
Lyon on April 2, 2011 in a panel discussion on Asbury Park’s vibrant
West Side music scene and how it affected their lives and their own music.
The panel discussion was followed by a tribute concert to the West Side
musicians on that same day at the Wonder Bar, where Springsteen and Lyon
joined in the show.
The Historical Society will show the video to the public
for the first time ever in association with the Light of Day events also
planned in Asbury Park that week.
“When we speak of Asbury Park’s West Side, we’re referring to
the once thriving black business and entertainment thoroughfare of Springwood
Avenue. Located just a short walk from the boardwalk and beach, the West Side
was a world away culturally,” said Charlie Horner. Horner and his wife,
Pam, are recognized by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum as premier
experts on vocal harmony, or doo wop, music and both the Horners will attend
the showing of the video.
“Asbury Park’s historically segregated, pre-civil rights-era
society gave rise to an area across the tracks that produced unique and
noteworthy music. Long before Bruce Springsteen, Southside Johnny and Bon Jovi,
the West Side had a jumping musical scene, with nightclubs like Leo Karp’s
Turf Club, Cuba’s the Madonna Club, the Orchid Club, and Big Bills, forming
the foundation for Asbury Park’s later musical glory. As we honor Asbury
Park’s musical legacy, we must remember its socially diverse roots,” Charlie
Horner said.
In the video, both Springsteen and Lyon discuss the influence
the West Side musical scene had on their own careers. Author Daniel Wolff (4th
of July, Asbury Park) moderated the panel discussion.
Bobby Thomas passed away last year and a special tribute
video of him singing “Crying In The Chapel” will precede the panel discussion
video.
The video will be presented at the Atonement Lutheran
Church, where it was originally taped, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 19.
Admission is free. The church is located at 308 First Avenue (at the
corner with Heck Street) and is within easy walking distance from the downtown
or boardwalk.
“This is the first time this video is being presented to the
public and I think it will offer viewers a unique perspective into the early
history of rock & roll in Asbury Park as seen through the eyes of some of the
city’s most famous musicians,” Historical Society President Don Stine said.
For more information go
www.APHistoricalSociety.org,
www.LightOfDay.org,
or our Events Calendar Page.
The late Bobby Thomas, to be seen
in panel discussion video, January 19.
Classic Urban Harmony joins
with the Franklin Township (NJ) Cultural Arts Council in celebrating the 150th
Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation
On the evening of January 2, 2013, we celebrated the 150th
Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation with our fellow Franklin Township
(NJ) residents. As members of
Franklin Township's Cultural Arts Council's Performing Arts Committee, we
helped organize the celebration with a reception and commemorative ceremony at
the town council meeting, including a reading of the Emancipation
Proclamation. Classic Urban Harmony made a major contribution to the
event with a display of memorabilia regarding the Emancipation Proclamation
and the Fisk Jubilee Singers. To take a look at photos from the event,
click
Emancipation Celebration.
Part of our Emancipation Proclamation and Jubilee Singers
Display
Former WLIB Radio
Personality, Al Grannum Dies
Phil Groia reports that former WLIB (NYC) radio personality, Al
"Granulated" Grannum, passed away on January 4, 2013 at the age of 72.
Al Grannum supplied numerous leads and anecdotes when Phil Groia was writing
his groundbreaking book about NYC R&B vocal groups, "They All Sang On The
Corner," and the two became good friends. Grannum is best known for his
WLIB radio program in the late 1960's and early 1970's. In 1971, he
helped break Jean Knight's "Mr. Big Stuff" in NYC. Al may have recorded
with an R&B group in the 1950's but it was not something he talked about, so
we don't know which group. Al did record on the A&G label in the late
1960's (as Al Grannum & the Granulated Souls) but he speaks rather than sings
on it. Vocal group fans may recall Al Grannum writing the liner notes
for Sonny Til & the Orioles RCA album (an album that included Bobby Thomas) or
for emceeing the 1983 Black Swan concert in Burlington, NJ.
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Leon Dunbar, owner of
Philadelphia's Re-Dun label and first manager of the Coalitions Dies
Charles Anderson reports that George Leon Dunbar, owner of
Philadelphia's ReDun label and first manager of the Coalitions died on
December 26, 2012 at the age of 68. The Coalitions' soul harmony
classic, "Instead... How Are You" was given a limited pressing on the ReDun
label in 1974, before being picked up by Phil-LA of Soul. If you've
never heard the record by this great West Philly group, scroll down and click
the YouTube below.
Left, George Leon Dunbar (courtesy of Charles Anderson).
Right, his ReDun label (from the Classic Urban Harmony Archives).
The Coalitions' "Instead ... How Are You"
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