1. The Chantels
Arlene Smith, Sonia Goring, Rene Minus, Lois Harris, Jackie Landry Jackson
met while singing in choir at Bronx church
devotional, romantic lyrics, simple backing (like male vocal groups), sweet harmonies
Lead talking to back up singers
honest emotional intensity
predates “girl group” wave

2. The Sound of New York City
vocal harmony groups created in neighborhoods by teenagers
music for the street and the stage
mix of African-American, Italian, Latino
home of first rock venue: Brooklyn Paramount Theater
Frankie Lymon & the Teenagers
Inducted 1993
The Chantels
The Belmonts
Dion Inducted 1989
Little Anthony & The Imperials
Inducted 2009

3. “Maybe” The Chantels Recorded October 16, 1957, released January 1958
#15 on pop chart; #2 on R&B chart

4. Prelude to the Girl Groups*
The Shangri-Las
The Crystals
The Chiffons
The Ronettes
Inducted 2007
The Angels
The Vandellas
Inducted 1995